A hernia is a bulge that occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. Hernias can occur in many different places in the body, but they are most common in the abdomen.
There are two main types of hernias: inguinal (groin) and umbilical (belly button) hernias.
What causes a hernia?
Hernias can be caused by a number of factors, including:
● Age – Hernias are more common in older adults.
● Genetics – People who have a family history of hernias are more likely to develop them themselves.
● Occupation – People who lift heavy objects or who are obese are at an increased risk of developing hernias.
● Smoking – Smoking can weaken the muscles and tissues in the abdomen, making it more likely that a hernia will develop.
Hernias are usually not painful, but they can sometimes cause discomfort, especially when coughing, lifting heavy objects, or straining. There is sometimes a chance that a hernia can become strangulated, which means that the blood supply to the herniated organ is cut off. When a hernia becomes strangulated, this is a serious medical emergency and immediate surgery is required.
If you have a hernia, your doctor will likely recommend surgery to repair it. There are two main types of hernia repair surgery: open surgery and laparoscopic surgery.
Open surgery is the traditional method of hernia repair. During open surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision in the groin or thigh and pushes the herniated organ back into place. The surgeon then strengthens the weak spot in the muscle or tissue with stitches or a mesh patch.
Laparoscopic surgery is a newer, less invasive method of hernia repair. During laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera on the end. The surgeon uses the laparoscope to see inside the abdomen and to insert surgical instruments. The herniated organ is then pushed back into place and the weak spot in the muscle or tissue is strengthened with stitches or a mesh patch. Laparoscopic surgery is advantaged over its open counterpart in that recovery is quicker and the incidence of chronic groin pain is much reduced.
After surgery, you will need to rest and take it easy for a few days. You will also need to avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous activity for several weeks if you have had open surgery, a much shorter period if you have had key hole surgery. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks of surgery.
Hernia repair surgery is a safe and effective procedure. The risks of surgery include:
● Infection
● Bleeding
● Pain
● Numbness
● Scarring
To arrange an appointment to discuss hernia repair surgery or double hernia surgery, please get in touch with Mr Andrew Clarke by calling our clinic on 07501 150298, or fill out the contact form.
Open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic surgery. Open surgery is the traditional method where a large incision is made. Laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, is minimally invasive, using small incisions and a camera. Robotic surgery is similar to laparoscopic but with the assistance of robots for increased precision.
For the first few days, you may experience mild discomfort and pain. But this will gradually improve over several weeks. Most people can return to light activities within a week or two, but heavier lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.
In some cases, hernia repair can be considered a major surgery, especially with open surgery. However, minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic surgery are often performed as day surgery and considered less invasive.
Open hernia repair involves a larger incision and may require a longer hospital stay, while laparoscopic procedures use smaller incisions and are often associated with faster recovery times.
After hernia surgery, prioritise wound care, gentle movement, and a healthy diet to support healing. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and alcohol for the first few weeks. It is important to listen to your body, manage pain, and gradually return to normal activities as recommended by your surgeon.
There is no definitive timeline. Some individuals live their entire lives with a hernia without needing surgery, while others face complications within months. Regular check-ins with a hernia specialist can help you track any changes and decide when, or if, surgery is needed.