Hernia Repair Surgery
A hernia is a common medical condition that occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through weakened muscle or connective tissue.
If left untreated, some hernias can cause discomfort, pain, and severe complications. Other times, hernias are not severe enough to require removal surgery. Your provider will advise on the best treatment option for you.
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weakened area in the muscles or connective tissue responsible for holding it in place.
The most common types include inguinal (groin), incisional, and umbilical hernias.
These conditions can develop slowly from surgery, strain, aging, or weakness, or they can occur suddenly from strenuous activities.
Regardless of the cause, surgical repair may be necessary to prevent complications.
Signs and Symptoms
Hernias develop in various ways, but common signs and symptoms include:
- A bulge or lump in the affected area, which may become more prominent when standing, coughing, or straining.
- Discomfort or pain, especially when lifting heavy objects or engaging in physical activities.
- Feeling heaviness or pressure in the affected region.
- Persistent indigestion or acid reflux, which can be a sign of a hiatal hernia.
Learn More
Hiatal Hernia Repair
Learn MoreHiatal Hernia Repair for GERD
A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the lower esophagus or stomach itself pushes through an opening in the diaphragm. This can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Learn more about hiatal hernia repair surgery to treat GERD.
How Are Hernias Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a hernia typically involves a health care provider conducting a physical examination.
They will inquire about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical assessment to locate the affected area.
Doctors may request additional tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI scan.
These tests confirm the diagnosis and help doctors evaluate the size and severity of the affected area.
Hernia Treatment Options
Treatment options include watchful waiting, lifestyle changes to address symptoms, and surgical repair. Although small hernias do not always require surgery, hernias do not resolve on their own.
Hernias typically will require surgery to heal completely and to avoid further complications.
Your doctor can evaluate the affected area and the risks to help come up with a treatment plan.
How Long Does Hernia Repair Surgery Take?
The duration of these surgeries can vary depending on the type and complexity of the hernia repair.
These surgeries are usually fast, lasting 30 minutes for simple repairs and up to two hours for complex operations.
The timing will vary depending on the size, location, and severity of the hernia and affected area.
Recovery After Hernia Surgery
Recovery following hernia repair surgery is similar to most common operative procedures.
Patients can usually return home on the same day or after a short hospital stay, depending on the surgical approach.
Once home, you should take it easy, especially during the first 24 hours.
Your health care team will provide you with guidance on specific post-operative procedures.
This will help you fully recover as quickly as possible.
Is Hernia Repair a High-Risk Surgery?
Surgeons generally consider hernia repair surgery to be low-risk and routinely perform it with a high success rate.
More than 1 million hernia repair surgeries are performed each year in the United States. As with any surgery, there are potential risks.
The overall risk depends on various factors, including the patient's health, the hernia type, and the surgical approach.
It's crucial for patients to discuss these risks and benefits with their surgeon before undergoing treatment.
If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a hernia, it is important to consult a doctor.
They will be able to recommend the most suitable treatment for your specific condition.
Early intervention and a thorough understanding of hernia repair options can lead to a smoother recovery and improved quality of life.
Hernias: Types and Repairs
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall, resulting in a bulge or protrusion. Hernias can be categorized into different types, including groin hernias, incisional hernias, and umbilical hernias.
Common Causes of Hernias:
- Heavy lifting
- Straining during bowel movement
- Chronic coughing
- Activities that increase abdominal pressure
- Congenital weakness in the abdominal wall
Types of Hernias:
Groin Hernias (Inguinal Hernias)
- Most common type
- Affects both men and women but is more prevalent in men
- Can occur due to various causes, including heavy lifting and chronic coughing
Incisional Hernias
- Occur at the sit of a previous surgical incision
- Common in individuals who have had abdominal surgeries
- Repair surgery involves placing the tissue or organ back in place and reinforcing the abdominal wall
Umbilical Hernias
- Characterized by a bulge near the belly button
- Common in infants and young children due to congenital weakness
- In adults, may be caused by factors like obesity, pregnancy, or abdominal surgery
Hernia Repair Surgery
Hernia repair surgery is a common treatment for hernias. During the procedure, a surgeon places the protruding tissue or organ back into its proper place and reinforces the weakened abdominal wall with sutures or mesh.
This surgery is typically performed under general or local anesthesia and has a relatively short recovery period. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and gradually resume normal activities within a few weeks.
Incisional Hernia Repair Surgery
This repair surgery at an incision site typically involves an incision at the affected site.
Then, the surgeon places the tissue or organ back in place and reinforces the abdominal wall with sutures or mesh.
Umbilical Hernia Repair Surgery
Umbilical hernia repair surgery is a common and effective treatment for adults and children with this condition.
This procedure follows a similar process to the other repair surgeries.
Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and normal activities in a few weeks.