Preparing for Hernia Repair Surgery: What to Expect

In today's world, hernia has become quite a common occurrence. A hernia protrusion develops when tissue or organs push through a weakness or hole in the surrounding muscle walls. The groin or abdominal wall is where most hernias develop. Hernias have the potential to enlarge and become painful over time. When you cough, sneeze, get up, or engage in physical activity, you can experience discomfort or increased pain. 
You need to get a hernia repair surgery to remove a hernia and reduce pain. According to NCBI, hernia surgery is common in the United States, and 800,000 surgeries are performed annually. In this blog, you will learn everything about hernia repair surgery.

What Is Hernia Repair Surgery?

Hernia repair surgery corrects a hernia, where organs protrude through a weakened body wall. In the procedure, a small incision is made near the hernia, and the displaced organ is repositioned. The weakened area is then fixed with stitches or mesh. This routine and safe surgery alleviates discomfort and aims to prevent recurrence, promoting a smoother recovery for individuals experiencing hernias.

Who Needs Hernia Repair Surgery?

Sometimes, you don't need an immediate hernia surgery as it takes time to develop fully. However, eventually, you will need to get the surgery as this condition will deteriorate in time and will cause you various problems.
Hernias can cause bulges when inner tissue forces outward via a rupture or breach in the muscle or tissue wall. They can cause unpleasant sensations such as pressure, discomfort, or pain. Depending on where your hernia is located, it may even affect your other organs and create issues.
Here are some reasons why you should get a hernia repair surgery:

• Experiencing sudden or severe pain in the hernia area
• Noticing a sudden enlargement of the hernia bulge
• Exhibiting symptoms of intestinal obstruction, including abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting
• Having a high fever
• Observing redness in the hernia area
  

Types of Hernia Repair Surgery

Various surgical procedures are depending on the location and the type of hernia you have. The following are the primary hernia surgeries:

1. Laparoscopy surgery: During laparoscopy, your surgeon makes multiple tiny cuts (typically four or five) to operate. Your surgeon inserts a narrow tube containing a small video camera, the laparoscope, which displays images of your insides on a screen. They then introduce surgical equipment through the other incisions to fix the hernia.
2. Open surgery: This is the traditional form of surgery in which your surgeon will make a single incision to operate on the herniated tissue. They return the organs and tissue to their proper positions and use surgical equipment to sew the tissue together to strengthen it. Your surgeon may use a surgical mesh to strengthen the tissues.
3. Robotic repair: This is the latest and most advanced hernia repair. In this surgery, your surgeon will use robotic surgical instruments to operate the hernia. They work at a console, controlling the technology needed to restore the weakening tissue that causes your hernia.
   

How to Prepare for Hernia Repair Surgery

Your doctor will first diagnose you for the type of hernia. Once the diagnosis is complete, they will review and evaluate your medical history. Your doctor may prescribe some tests to ensure you can have surgery safely. These tests might include a blood test or an electrocardiogram (EKG). After checking the results, they will decide which surgery is suited for you. 
Your doctor might ask you to stop taking aspirin and other drugs that raise the risk of bleeding about a week before your hernia surgery. Starting the night before surgery, you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything. This lowers the risk of vomiting during surgery.

See Also: Hiatal Hernia Revealed: Causes, Symptoms, Solutions

What Happens During Hernia Repair Surgery

Before Surgery 

Your doctor will ask you not to eat anything the night before the surgery. You will have to wear loose clothes before the surgery. Next, your doctor will administer medications to prevent pain during the surgery. They will also put you to sleep with the help of anesthesia.

During Surgery

For open surgery, the surgeon will make a single larger incision or more minor cuts for laparoscopic or robotic surgery. Next, they will put the herniated tissue back in, strengthen weak tissue, and use surgical mesh for added support. Lastly, they will repair the incisions and treat your wounds.

After Surgery

Some hernia operations are outpatient procedures, allowing patients to return home the same day, while others may stay in the hospital, especially if there are complications. You might feel discomfort, and your doctor will suggest over-the-counter medications. Before leaving, you'll receive an aftercare plan to help you recover smoothly.

Benefits of Hernia Repair Surgery

• Relief from the pain and discomfort caused by the hernia.
• Your quality of life improves, and you can feel better and function properly.
• The risk of tissue strangulation decreases significantly.
• This surgery has a high success rate and quicker recovery time.
  

 Risks of Hernia Repair Surgery

• There's a slight chance of getting an infection at the surgery site.
• Minor or severe bleeding during and after the surgery.
• Although rare, there's a possibility of the hernia coming back.
• Surgery may cause damage to nearby nerves, leading to numbness or pain.
• Anesthesia can have side effects, and in rare cases, complications may arise.
• Some individuals may have allergic reactions to medications or materials used during the surgery.
  

How Long Is Recovery from Hernia Surgery?

You will have pain and discomfort for the first 72 hours after the surgery. The time taken to recover completely from the hernia repair surgery will depend on various factors. These may include:

• The size of the hernia
• The type of hernia repair surgery you opt for
• Your overall health
• Your age
  

However, in most cases, you can resume your daily activities after one or two weeks, although you should avoid doing strenuous activities.

See Also: Understanding the Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options of Femoral Hernias

Final Thoughts

Hernia repair surgery is important as it not only relieves your symptoms but also decreases the complications that may arise if the condition is left untreated. With advancements in technology, the success rate and complete recovery of these surgeries have increased by a significant margin. So, getting a hernia repair surgery is only the right thing if you want to protect your health.

Get Top Class Hernia Repair Surgery at Far North Surgery in Anchorage, AK

 At Far North Surgery in Anchorage, AK, we focus on providing excellent care and a wide range of treatments. Our highly competent, board-certified general surgeons specialize in delivering high-quality care and comprehensive treatment options for hernia patients. They collaborate closely with other specialists to ensure that all our patients receive top-notch treatment.
Dr. Madhu Prasad, our experienced surgeon, has been honored with the Best of Anchorage Awards, showcasing our dedication to excellence. If you are looking for the best hernia repair surgery or have any medical concerns, Far North Surgery is the right choice. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment plans and experience the highest level of care.