Limitations of open hernia surgery namely long period of rest (average 6 weeks) and chance of hernia coming back (recurrent hernia) led to rapid popularity of Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery all over the world and in India. Laparoscopic Tension Free Hernia Repair means less pain, less hospital stay, faster recovery and less chances of recurrence.
Is surgery must for Treatment of Hernia?
Surgery is the only treatment option for Hernia. It is better to undergo surgery before symptoms worsen or before complication starts. The possible complications include obstruction or strangulation which may be life threatening.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Hernia surgery
- Small incisions
- Less post-operative pain
- Earlier return to work
- Shorter hospital stay
- Positioning of the mesh on the inside of the defect is mechanically better than when placed on the outside as in the non-keyhole operation
- Recurrent hernias are much easier as approached from the inside
- Hernias on both sides can be repaired through the same three holes as opposed to open surgery where separate incision is to be given on other side
How Laparoscopic Hernia Operation is Done?
- Tiny incisions are placed on the abdomen.
- The abdomen is inflated with harmless gas (carbon di oxide) to create space to operate. The laparoscope with attached camera and special long instruments are inserted through these incisions.
- Surgeon performs the procedure watching high resolution images of the patient’s abdomen on the monitor.
- Hernia contents are pulled back in rather than pushed in from outside as is done in an ‘open’ operation and defect repaired with mesh from inside.
- Following the procedure, the small abdominal incisions are closed with a stitch or two or surgical tap or glue can be applied.
What to Expect After Hernia Surgery?
Activity:
- Once patient is awake walk is encouraged
- Routine activities like car driving can be resumed one week after keyhole repair and 2 weeks after open repair
- Bath can be taken daily if advised
- Avoid bending forward frequently
- Avoid strenuous work and lifting weight over 5kg, for 2 months
Diet:
- Normal diet and plenty of liquids are advised. Avoid diet which may cause cough and cold.
Pain:
- Slight pain may be experienced during the first 24 to 48 hours. Painkillers are prescribed for first 2 days
Hospital Stay & Rest:
- Most patient may go home same day of the surgery (day care surgery)
Normal rest at home for 2-3 days, you may go back to work within few days after laparoscopic surgery repair. - Heavy weight lifting is to be avoided for approx. 2 weeks after Laparoscopic Hernia repair.
- Some swelling around incision and bluish discoloration is normal in groin hernias, which can be up to scrotum.
Types Of Hernia we treat
Hernia is a bulge in the abdomen due to protrusion of contents of the abdomen through a normal or abnormal opening.
Types of Hernia
- Inguinal hernia
- Umbilical hernia
- Incisional hernia
- Femoral hernia
- Epigastric Hernia
- Hiatus Hernia
- Strangulated Hernia
- Obstructed Hernia
- Complex Hernia
- Recurrent Hernia
