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Hernia surgery is required when tissues or internal organs bulge through the abdominal muscle wall or the surrounding connective tissue, usually near the groin or in the lower abdomen. In most cases, a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery would be required to repair the Hernia and strengthen the abdominal wall.
Here is what you should know about hernia surgery:
Before the Surgery
Your surgeon will brief you on what to expect before and during the surgical procedure. They will also provide other basic guidelines, including do’s and don’ts before surgery.
Initial Consultation
Though the medical team will have already assessed your medical history, there will be an initial consultation to check for new changes in your condition. Make sure to bring along all your medical prescriptions and ask about any questions or concerns that you may have.
Anesthesiology
Once the surgical approach to be used in your case has been determined, the anesthesiologist will figure out the form of anesthesia and dosage that will be ideal for your operation. Make sure to avoid food and drinks for a few hours before surgery, as instructed.
During the Surgery
Depending on the severity of the hernia and other related factors, various surgical methods can be considered. The two most predominant types of surgery are open surgery and laparoscopic hernia surgery, both of which may or may not use a device called surgical mesh. While smaller hernia cases are treated through open surgery, laparoscopic surgery has been gaining popularity as it is minimally-invasive and has a shorter recovery time.
Steps Involved in Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
Laparoscopic hernia surgery is performed using a tube-like device that has a small camera. The device is inserted via a small incision around the navel. With the help of the camera, the surgeon can see the hernia and repair it.
Once the hernia has been repaired and the protruding organs and tissues have been pushed back into their original position, the surgeon may place a surgical mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall. This entire procedure is performed under anesthesia.
The incisions are then closed up with stitches that dissolve over time. The stitching is done with extra precaution to eliminate the scope for infection.
After the surgery
Post-surgery, the patient’s blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels are closely monitored as a routine procedure. The patient may be instructed to do some breathing exercises, and the doctor may prescribe blood-thinning medications to prevent blood clots.
After carefully monitoring the patient’s health and ensuring there are no immediate side effects or infections, the patient is allowed to go home. The majority of patients recover within a day or two after the surgery. As most hernia surgeries are outpatient procedures, you will be allowed to go home the same day, provided you arrange for someone to drive you home.
Once you are home and resume your daily activities, make sure to regularly evaluate your condition and reach out to your doctor if anything feels wrong.
A Word from Far North Surgery
Though seemingly intimidating, hernia surgery is one of the most common types of surgery in the U.S., with approximately 1 million surgeries being performed every year.
Despite being a highly successful procedure, the effectiveness of such surgery will also depend on how well you are able to communicate with the medical team and follow their instructions.
Thus, by cooperating with your doctors and support staff, you can help ensure the overall success of your hernia surgery.
To learn more about hernia surgery, contact us.
