A hernia is an abnormal protrusion of an organ or a part of an organ through the walls of its containing cavity i.e. muscular wall that usually keeps them in place.
Usually, a hernia does not get better on its own. They may become bigger and in some cases, it can lead to life-threatening problems. That’s the reason for Hernia treatment Surgery is often recommended.
Most of the hernias need surgical intervention but it depends on the size and clinical symptoms.
So let’s discuss the important question, Do I Need Hernia Surgery?
You are an ideal candidate for hernia surgical treatment if any of these things happen:
- Incarceration is a condition when tissue (such as the intestine/fat) becomes trapped in the abdominal wall. If it is not treated it may lead to strangulation and then the blood supply to the tissue gets cut off
- If the hernia becomes strangulated. This can cause permanent damage and is a surgical emergency.
- If the hernia is growing larger and is causing pain and discomfort
You may be able to wait to have surgery if:
- When you lie down hernia goes away or you can push it back into your belly
- If a hernia is small and there are few or no symptoms,
It is recommended to keep a watch and monitor your hernia during your yearly physical examination.
Types of Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery can be performed in one of two ways. With the latest advancements in technology, in many cases, the patient is discharged on the same day.
Open surgery:
This is operated under local/regional anaesthesia. Usuallysurgeon makes a cut (incision) to open the skin. The surgeon will gently push back the hernia into the place and then tie it off or remove it, and then he’ll close the weak area of the muscle — where the hernia pushed through – with stitches and then repair the layer anatomically with/without mesh.
Laparoscopic surgery:
This is a more advanced method where the abdomen of the patient is usually inflated with a harmless gas (CO2). This helps the surgeon to have a better look at the organ. A small incision is made in the abdomen and a thin tube with a camera on the end (laparoscope) is inserted. With the help of the laparoscope, the surgeon can see the image and uses it as a guide to repairing the hernia with mesh.
The biggest advantage of laparoscopic surgery is the recovery time. It is very fast compared to open surgery. A patient can get discharged on the same day and are back to their normal routine a week sooner than with open surgery
Depending on the size, type, and location of the hernia, the doctor will recommend the types of surgery required. There are some other factors like lifestyle, health, and age-based on which the doctor will decide the type of surgery.
