A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue that normally holds it in place. Hernias can occur in various parts of the body, but they are most common in the abdomen, groin, and upper thigh.

What is a hernia repair?

A hernia repair is a surgical procedure that involves pushing the protruding organ or tissue back into place and repairing the weakened area. The goal of hernia repair is to prevent the hernia from recurring and to relieve any pain or discomfort associated with it.

How is a hernia repair performed?

There are two main types of hernia repair: open and laparoscopic.

• Open hernia repair involves making a single incision over the hernia. The surgeon then pushes the hernia back into place and repairs the weakened area with stitches or a synthetic mesh.
• Laparoscopic hernia repair involves making several small incisions and using a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, to view the hernia. The surgeon then uses small instruments to push the hernia back into place and repair the weakened area with a synthetic mesh.

Common practice/results of hernia repair

Hernia repair is a common and generally safe surgery. Most people who have a hernia repair are able to go home the same day as the surgery. The recovery time is typically one to two weeks.

Why do people need a hernia repair?

There are several reasons why people may need a hernia repair.

• Pain or discomfort: Hernias can cause pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects or straining.
• Incarceration: In some cases, a hernia can become incarcerated, meaning that it becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back into place. This can lead to serious complications, such as bowel obstruction.
• Strangulation: Strangulation is a rare but life-threatening complication that can occur when a hernia cuts off the blood supply to the trapped organ or tissue. This can lead to tissue death and infection.

Genetics, lifestyle, and disease

Several factors can increase the risk of developing a hernia, including:

• Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop hernias than others due to genetic factors.
• Lifestyle: Heavy lifting, straining, and obesity can all increase the risk of developing a hernia.
• Chronic cough: A chronic cough can put extra strain on the abdominal muscles, which can increase the risk of developing a hernia.
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy can put extra strain on the abdominal muscles, which can increase the risk of developing an umbilical hernia.

Who can have a hernia repair?

Hernia repair can be performed on people of all ages, but it is most common in adults. It is more common in men than in women.

Benefits of a hernia repair

The benefits of hernia repair include:

• Relief of pain or discomfort
• Prevention of recurrence
• Prevention of serious complications, such as incarceration and strangulation

The Procedure

Hernia repair

Hernia repair is a surgical procedure that involves pushing the protruding organ or tissue back into place and repairing the weakened area. The goal of hernia repair is to prevent the hernia from recurring and to relieve any pain or discomfort associated with it.

What does it involve?

The type of hernia repair you will need depends on the type of hernia you have and your individual circumstances. Your doctor will discuss the options with you and recommend the best course of treatment.

Open hernia repair

Open hernia repair is the most common type of hernia repair. It involves making a single incision over the hernia. The surgeon then pushes the hernia back into place and repairs the weakened area with stitches or a synthetic mesh.

Laparoscopic hernia repair

Laparoscopic hernia repair is a less invasive type of hernia repair. It involves making several small incisions and using a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, to view the hernia. The surgeon then uses small instruments to push the hernia back into place and repair the weakened area with a synthetic mesh.

What to expect after surgery

After surgery, you will likely be able to go home the same day. You may have some pain or discomfort at the incision site, which can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. You will also need to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks.

Going forward after surgery

Most people make a full recovery from hernia repair and are able to resume their normal activities within a few weeks. However, it is important to follow Mr Veeramootoo's instructions carefully to avoid complications.

Patient advice on pre hernia repair

Before your hernia repair, Mr Veeramootoo will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery. This may include:

• Stopping smoking
• Eating a healthy diet
• Taking certain medications
• Getting a good night's sleep

Specific advice

• For open hernia repair:
  • You may have some pain or discomfort at the incision site. This can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
  • You may also have some swelling and bruising at the incision site. This is normal and will go away on its own.
  • You may need to wear a surgical bandage or compression garment for a few weeks.
    
• For laparoscopic hernia repair:
  • You may have some pain or discomfort at the incision sites. This can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
  • You may also have some gas pain after surgery. This is normal and will go away on its own.
  • You may need to avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks.

Diet and exercise

• Eat a healthy diet. This will help your body heal.
• Drink plenty of fluids. This will help to prevent constipation.
• Get regular exercise. This will help to improve your circulation and strengthen your muscles.

When to call Mr Veeramootoo

• If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
• If you have redness, swelling, or drainage from your incision site.
• If you have severe pain that does not go away with over-the-counter pain medication.
• If you have any concerns about your recovery.

Other tips

• Wear loose-fitting clothing. This will help to avoid putting pressure on your incision site.
• Apply ice to your incision site for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling and pain.
• Elevate your legs when you are resting. This will help to reduce swelling.
• Avoid straining or lifting heavy objects. This could cause your hernia to recur.