Hernia Surgery
An abdominal hernia is an abnormal protrusion of the contents of the abdomen through the layers of the tummy wall. A hernia operation is intended to repair and strengthen the defect in the abdominal wall. The contents of the hernia are pushed back into the correct place, and a synthetic mesh is often used to strengthen the repair.
Inguinal hernia – groin
An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin area and is a very common type of abdominal hernia that can easily be repaired with surgery as a daycase procedure. These hernias can also be managed conservatively with the use of a supportive truss, if appropriate for the individual patient.
There are two ways this type of hernia can be repaired:
• Laparoscopic (keyhole) inguinal hernia repair
Mr Day will make three small cuts in your abdomen, through which a tube-like camera will be passed to enable Mr Day to view the hernia. Special surgical instruments are then used to reduce the hernia and a synthetic mesh will be used to strengthen the abdominal wall.
• Open inguinal hernia repair
A single incision of around 5-10cm is made in the groin and the bulge is pushed back into place. A mesh will be used to support the area. The skin is then closed using dissolvable stitches.
The risks of surgery are bleeding, pain, infection, chronic pain (4-5%), recurrence (1-2%), numbness, scarring and urinary retention.
Femoral hernia – lower groin
A femoral hernia also occurs in the groin area. This type is positioned a little lower down than an inguinal hernia and is more common in women. There is a high risk of serious problems if femoral hernias are left untreated.
Femoral hernias can be repaired through the same methods as an inguinal hernia, through either laparoscopic or open surgery.
Incisional hernia – resulting from a previous surgical incision
Incisional hernias result from a weakness in the abdominal wall caused by a previous scar or surgical wound that has not healed well. They usually occur within two years of the surgery.
Incisional hernias vary in size and the treatment prescribed may also vary. Usually open surgery will be carried out, with a mesh being stitched over the weak spot for larger hernias. The incision will then be closed with stitches.
Umbilical hernias – navel
Umbilical hernias appear around the navel (belly button) and usually present as a lump that may disappear with gentle pressure or on lying down. The hernia can be left alone without treatment. There is a risk, however, that the contents of the hernia could become stuck requiring emergency surgery. Alternatively, the hernia can be repaired as a daycase procedure with either the use of sutures and possibly the use of a piece of synthetic mesh.