Hernia Open Surgery , Procedure and After Care

Overview

A hernia happens when the muscle or tissue that surrounds the internal organs bulges through an opening or weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias can occur in various parts of the body, such as the abdomen, groin, and upper thigh. As an individual gets older, the muscles start to see constant wear and tear, increasing the risk of hernia. Hernias can also be the result of an operation, an injury, or a birth defect.

What is a Hernia?

Hernia is a condition where an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle that holds it in place. Most hernias involve your abdominal organs pushing through the walls of your abdominal cavity. though they can also appear on your thigh and groin areas. Hernias are often harmless but can cause discomfort and pain in certain cases. Though hernias are not life-threatening they do not resolve naturally, and if they cause unpleasant symptoms such as pain and discomfort, they need to be surgically removed.

Hernias can be of different types depending on their location, such as inguinal, epigastric, and umbilical hernias. The exact cause of hernias is unknown; however, there are certain factors that may increase the risk of developing the condition, such as advancing age, being overweight, genetics, and constant pressure in the abdominal region. The main symptoms of hernias are a visible bulge in the affected area, accompanied by pain and discomfort, and a feeling of heaviness in the region.

How are Hernias Diagnosed?

Hernias are often identified through the following methods:

Medical history: The doctor will record your medical history, which will include your symptoms, other ailments, and current medications and supplements, if any.

Physical Examination: Your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination to look for the physical signs of a hernia.

Imaging Tests: You will be prescribed imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis, which may include, abdominal ultrasound, an abdominal CT scan, or an abdominal MRI scan.

Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor will plan the treatment. Hernias can be managed through open (conventional) or laparoscopic surgery (minimally invasive). Here, let’s discuss in detail an open hernia surgery.

How does an Open Hernia Surgery work?

Hernias are mostly treated through surgery. The need for surgery or the type of surgery chosen will depend upon the type of hernia you are suffering from and the severity of your symptoms. Here’s how an open surgery works.

How To Prepare

• Medical History: Your doctor will discuss your medical history, including your symptoms, other present ailments, and current medications or supplements. 
• Medications: You might be asked to stop certain medications such as blood thinners for a brief period before and after the procedure in order to avoid complications such as bleeding.
• Allergies:  Make sure you inform your doctor about any allergies such as allergies to latex or any medications.
• Quit Smoking: If you are a smoker you will be asked to quit smoking for a certain period before and after the surgery, as it can delay healing. 
• Arrange For Help: Make sure that you arrange for a friend or a family member to help on the day of surgery and during your recovery.

The Procedure

Here are the basic steps of open hernia surgery:

• Open hernia surgery is also called Herniorrhaphy. It is performed under local or general anesthesia.
• Your surgeon will now make an incision 5 to 10 cm long near the hernia's location. 
• The surgeon now pushes back the protruding tissues back to their normal position with the help of surgical instruments and also repairs the weakened portion of the muscle wall.
• A synthetic mesh may also be placed in the muscle wall to improve its strength and prevent a recurrence.
• Finally, the incision is closed with the help of sutures and closed by the sterile dressing.

How Is The Recovery After Open Hernia Surgery?

Here is what to expect after the procedure:

• You may experience some amount of pain and discomfort in the area which is normal. However, this can be managed with the prescribed medications.
• Make sure you get adequate rest and avoid any strenuous activities such as heavy lifting for the initial  3 to 4 weeks. 
• Make sure not to wet the surgical site until it heals well and keep the area clean and dry. 
• Have a healthy fiber-rich diet and drink plenty of fluids in order to prevent constipation and avoid any associated complications.
• Follow all the post-surgical instructions given by your surgeon and attend the follow-up visits as instructed in order to achieve a fast and smooth recovery. 
• You should be able to get back to your normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks.

Are There Any Risks Associated With An Open Hernia Surgery?

Open hernia surgery is a safe procedure, and complications are rare. However, like other surgical procedures, it holds the risk of certain complications, such as

• Infection, bleeding, or bruising at the surgical site
• Accumulation of fluids 
• Migration or erosion of the mesh
• Complications with anesthesia
• Nerve damage or numbness in the area
   

Why Choose Medfin?

Surgery can be a daunting aspect, and feeling anxious is absolutely normal. The massive amount of information you can get from the internet may confuse you even more. This is where Medfin can help. Leave us the hefty task of finding the best hospital, the finest doctor, and the latest procedure at the lowest cost. Let us take charge while you sit back and focus on your health and recovery.