Hernia Surgery Facts – Explained by a General Surgeon

Hernias are a common health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. While they can occur at any age and in both genders, certain hernias are more common in men than women. In the initial stage, hernias might appear as a minor bulge; however, over time, they grow in size and severity.

Surgery is often considered one of the most effective options for treating a variety of hernias, particularly when other conservative methods have proved to be unsuccessful or when the condition becomes severe. Fortunately, modern surgical interventions have made hernia repair a safe, efficient and minimally invasive procedure.

In this blog, we will delve into some prevalent facts about hernia surgery, including its causes, symptoms, surgical options, recovery process and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an internal tissue or tissue squeezes through a weak spot in the muscles or surrounding connective tissue called the fascia. Most hernias involve one of the abdominal organs pushing through the walls of the abdominal cavity. They mainly occur gradually as you get older or due to the regular wear and tear of the muscles.

Different Types of Hernias

A reputed hernia surgeon in Kolkata, Dr Purnendu Bhowmik, stated that hernias can be of different types that one can experience:

1. Inguinal hernia: This is the most common type of hernia, particularly in men. It occurs when a portion of the bowel protrudes into the inguinal canal, a passageway that runs down the inner thigh.
2. Femoral: It is more likely to occur in women than in men. It happens when a tissue pushes through the femoral canal, a passage just below the inguinal ligament in the upper thigh.
3. Umbilical: In this type of hernia, the inside of the navel sticks out. Most umbilical hernias are congenital (present from birth) or seen in individuals who have had multiple pregnancies.
4. Hiatal: It occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the chest cavity through the opening of the diaphragm. You might detect the issue until the disease reaches the advanced stage.

Common Symptoms of a Hernia

The primary symptom of a hernia is a visible bulge or lump when standing, bending or coughing. Some of the other warning signs include the following:

• Pain or discomfort at the site of the bulge
• A feeling of pressure or weakness
• A dull, aching sensation
• Increase in the bulge size over time
• Nausea and vomiting

When left untreated, a hernia becomes strangulated, which means that the blood supply is completely cut off, which is a potentially life-threatening condition.

What Causes A Hernia?

A hernia develops due to a combination of reasons. Some of the risk factors include the following:

Genetics: If anyone has a family history of hernia, an individual becomes more susceptible to developing it.

Obesity: When a person is overweight, the muscles become incapable of handling the extra weight, thereby increasing the pressure on the abdominal walls.

Frequent constipation: Constant straining during bowel movements increases the intra-abdominal pressure, which enhances the chance of hernia formation.

Previous surgery: Sometimes, a hernia can occur at the site of the incision after an abdominal surgery, which is known as an incisional hernia.

Chronic coughing: Some conditions like asthma, bronchitis and COPD lead to constant coughing, which strains the abdominal muscles and results in their bulging.

If you fall under any of these risk categories, make sure to get in touch with a hernia surgeon in Kolkata for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options for Hernia

Surgery is the most effective treatment option for a hernia to get rid of the pain that it causes. Many individuals delay surgical intervention for hernias; however, if a patient waits too long, the hernia might grow in size and become difficult to repair, stated a hernia surgeon in Kolkata.

There are Three Types of Hernia Surgery:

1. Open method: Here, the surgeon makes a deep cut in the affected area. The protruding tissue is pushed back to its place, and the weakened muscle is stitched together. Though it is effective, however, it comes with post-operative complications and a longer recovery time.
2. Laparoscopic method: In this type, the repair procedure is the same. But instead of a deep cut, several small incisions are made, through which surgical instruments are inserted to complete the operation. It typically results in less pain, minimal scarring and a faster healing period.
3. Robotic-assisted method: It is a modern and minimally invasive technique which allows the surgeon to repair the hernia using robotically controlled surgical equipment.

Use of Mesh in A Hernia Repair Surgery

Hernia mesh, also known as a surgical device, is used by a hernia surgeon to support the damaged tissue around a hernia while it heals. The pores in the mesh allow the body’s natural tissue to grow over time, which eventually strengthens the repair and prevents its recurrence.

Surgeons might use the mesh in both open and laparoscopic procedures. It is often secured with stitches to hold the weakened tissue in place and prevent its shifting during the healing process.

Advantages of Using Mesh in Hernia Repair Surgery

• Reduces the recurring rate
• Provides support to tissue growth.
• Helps in faster recovery
• Improved treatment outcomes

What is the Success Rate of Hernia Surgery?

Hernia repair surgery has a high success rate, with more than 90% of the patients reporting an excellent treatment outcome. The surgical intervention provides relief from the symptoms and minimises complications.

Modern techniques have further improved the success rates along with advantages like reduced post-operative complications like pain, bleeding and infections. Moreover, the risk of recurrence is almost minimal when performed by an experienced hernia surgeon in Kolkata, like Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, who has years of experience and expertise in performing complicated hernia surgeries.

Post-Operative Care After Hernia Surgery

It is important to follow the recovery guidelines after a hernia surgery for safe and quick healing. Here are some of them.

• Keep the incision site clean and dry
• Take the painkillers as instructed by your doctor
• Eat a high-fat diet to prevent constipation
• Refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting
• Stay hydrated

Conclusion

If you are noticing a bulge in any part of your body, Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, the best hernia surgeon in Kolkata, advises you to consult a healthcare provider immediately. A trusted surgeon will evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment option.