A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue called fascia. Most hernias occur within the abdominal cavity, between the chest and the hips. The most common types are inguinal (inner groin), femoral (outer groin), umbilical (belly button), and hiatal (upper stomach). Surgery is the primary treatment to fix hernias due to the risk of complications such as pain and obstruction.

This blog explores what hernia repair surgery involves, including the types of surgeries, what to expect during recovery, and lifestyle modifications needed post-surgery.

Types of Hernia Repair Surgery

There are three main types of hernia repair surgeries-

Open Surgery. The surgeon makes a large incision near the hernia, pushes the protruding tissue back into place, secures it, and then sews the weakened area. Often, a mesh is placed to reinforce the area.
Laparoscopic Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which the surgeon makes several small incisions and uses a laparoscope to repair the hernia with mesh. This method results in less postoperative pain and quicker recovery.
Robotic Surgery is the latest advancement in the field of minimal invasive procedures for the treatment of hernia where surgery is performed with robotic arms, which enhances the surgeon's precision, flexibility, and control and reduces post operative pain and hospital stay.

Preparing for Hernia Surgery

Preparation for hernia surgery typically involves-

A physical examination to assess the hernia's size and the surgery's complexity.
Blood tests or imaging studies to evaluate overall health.
Instructions stop certain medications before the surgery(as and when required).

The Surgical Procedure

Regardless of the type, hernia surgeries generally follow this process:

Anaesthesia. You'll receive general anaesthesia for laparoscopic and robotic surgeries or local anaesthesia for open surgery.
Incision. One large cut is made in open surgery, while small incisions are used in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.
Repair. The surgeon repositions the herniated tissue and secures the hernia's opening with sutures and sometimes mesh.
Closure. The incisions are stitched up and bandaged.

Postoperative Care

After hernia surgery, immediate postoperative care will include-

Pain management through prescribed medications.
Limiting physical activity, especially heavy lifting, to prevent strain on the repair site.
Care for the surgical site to prevent infection.

Recovery Time

Recovery from hernia surgery can vary-

Laparoscopic/Robotic Surgery. People typically return home on the same day and resume normal activities within a week, though full recovery may take several weeks.
Open Surgery. A 2-3 days hospital stay might be necessary, with a longer recovery period of up to six weeks.

Risks and Potential Complications

While hernia repair is generally safe, potential risks include

Infections at the incision sites.
Chronic pain or discomfort in the area, particularly if mesh is used.
The possibility of hernia recurrence.
Complications from anaesthesia.

Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments

Post-surgery, you may need to make several dietary and lifestyle adjustments-

A gradual return to a regular diet, starting with liquids and soft foods.
Increased fibre intake to prevent constipation.
Regular, gentle exercise, such as walking, enhances circulation and aids healing.

When to Visit a Doctor

Post-surgery, contact your doctor if you experience-

Signs of infection include fever, severe pain, redness, and swelling at the incision site.
Symptoms of a recurrence, such as a new bulge at the original hernia site.
Any severe or persistent pain.

Life After Hernia Surgery

Once hernia surgery is complete, the focus shifts to recovery and the gradual return to everyday activities. Understanding that the journey doesn't end upon leaving the hospital; the recovery phase is pivotal. Here's what to expect and how to ensure a smooth transition to normal life after hernia repair surgery.

Initial Recovery Phase

The first few days after surgery are critical:

Rest is crucial. Limit physical activity to allow the body to heal. Resting helps mitigate the risk of complications and supports faster healing.
Pain management. Follow your doctor's instructions for pain relief medications. Proper pain management will help you move more comfortably and is crucial for recovery.
Incision care. Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or foul-smelling discharge.

Gradual Increase in Activity

After the first week, if the doctor agrees, start slowly increasing your activity level:

Walking. Start with short walks around your home. Gradually increase the distance as comfort allows.
Avoid lifting. Do not lift anything heavier than 5 kilograms for at least 4-6 weeks or until your doctor gives the go-ahead to avoid strain on the repaired site.
Monitor for complications. Any signs of pain, swelling, or redness should prompt a visit to the doctor.

Conclusion

Hernia repair surgery is a common procedure with a high success rate. Understanding the types of surgeries, what to expect during recovery, and how to manage post-surgery care are crucial for a smooth recovery and optimal outcomes. Always follow your surgeon's guidelines and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best recovery possible. With proper care, most people can expect to return to regular activities shortly after surgery with minimal risk of recurrence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hernias

Q. How long does it take to recover from hernia repair surgery?
A. Recovery time from hernia repair surgery can vary. For laparoscopic surgery, most people go home the same day and return to normal activities within a week. Open surgery might require a 2-3 day hospital stay with a recovery period of up to six weeks before resuming full activities.

Q. Is hernia surgery a major surgery?
A. Hernia surgery can be either major or minor, depending on the method used and the hernia's size. Laparoscopic hernia repair is considered less invasive and is usually performed as a minor surgery with minimal recovery time. Open hernia repair is more invasive and considered a major surgery due to the longer recovery involved.

Q. Can you live a normal life after hernia surgery?
A. Yes, you can live a normal life after hernia surgery. Most people return to their usual activities after recovery. Following post-surgery instructions and attending follow-up appointments is important to ensure proper healing.

Q. How painful is hernia surgery?
A. The pain level post-hernia surgery varies depending upon the method used to perform surgery. Robotic procedures induce least pain while most people experience moderate to severe pain if the surgery is performed in open manner, especially within the first few days after the procedure. Pain can be effectively managed with medications prescribed by your doctor, and most people find that the pain decreases significantly within a week.