Hernia Surgery

Some of the most common types of hernias are explained below.

• Inguinal hernias, in the internal groin area, occur when the intestine protrudes through either of two passages in the lower abdominal wall called inguinal canals.
• Femoral hernias, in the upper thigh/outer groin area, occur in deeper passages called femoral canals. They are much less common than inguinal hernias and are far more likely to occur in women than in men.
• Ventral hernias occur through an opening in the muscles of the abdomen. There are three types of ventral hernias:
  • Epigastric hernias occur above the belly button.
  • Incisional hernias are caused by a weakening of the abdominal muscle resulting from an incision made during a previous abdominal surgery.
  • Umbilical hernias, which occur near the belly button, are most common in newborns, especially those born prematurely. These hernias usually close on their own by the time the child turns 4. Umbilical hernias can be more problematic when they occur in adults.
• Hiatal hernias occur when the upper part of the stomach bulges into the chest through a small opening (the hiatus) in the diaphragm. The hiatus allows the esophagus, which carries food from the mouth to the stomach, to pass through the diaphragm.

Hiatal hernia symptoms are treated with medication, but most other types of hernias require surgical repair, although not always instantly. There are two primary options:

• Open hernia surgery. The surgeon makes a cut in the groin to view and repair the hernia. After repairing the hernia, the surgeon uses stitches alone or stitches and a piece of mesh to close the abdominal wall. The mesh is designed to support the weak area of the abdominal wall where the hernia occurred.
• Laparoscopic hernia surgery. The surgeon makes several small cuts in the lower abdomen and inserts special tools to view and repair the hernia. The surgeon typically uses a piece of mesh to close and strengthen the abdominal wall. There are some surgeons who opt for robotic repair, which means they sit at a console controlling robotic arms that perform the surgery.

Hernia surgeries generally do not cause a high level of post-operative pain, and pain can be managed with medications. These pain relievers can be supplemented with opioids, although this often is not necessary.

Limiting the use of opioids helps avoid negative side effects, including problems urinating after hernia surgery, which have been known to occur in a minority of patients after inguinal hernia repair. Postoperative urinary retention occurs most often in people over age 50, especially males. Taking medications as directed prior to surgery, including medicines for benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is caused by enlargement of the prostate, also helps prevent postoperative urinary retention.

Under medical direction, measures might also be taken before surgery to limit postoperative pain and nausea. Consult your physician or anesthesiologist about whether these are appropriate options for you.

Dr. N. S. Babu will provide you with a specific plan but may not be able to give you an exact time frame in advance. Doctors usually cannot fully diagnose the severity of a hernia until they perform the surgery.

Hernia procedures are usually outpatient surgeries. In general, the sooner you can start moving afterward, the better. This movement helps prevent constipation and blood clots. Be sure to adhere to the doctor’s instructions about what you can lift, how to lift it, and how long to remain on any restrictions; some may be permanent.

Dr. N. S. Babu and their team has a dedicated and caring approach and will seek to find you the earliest appointment possible with one of the best hernia surgeon in Hyderabad – Dr. N. S. Babu for your needs. For more information about our comprehensive treatment options, or to request an appointment with the best gastro care clinic in Hyderabad. Call us on 9443355668.