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How can a hernia be repaired?
Hernias usually need to be surgically repaired to prevent intestinal damage and further complications. The surgery takes about an hour and is usually an outpatient procedure (which means the patient can go home the same day of the procedure). This surgery may be performed by an open air repair (small incision over the herniated area) or by laparoscopic surgery (minimally invasive).
Open Repair Surgery
During the surgery
An anesthesiologist (a physician who specializes in pain relief) will recommend a type of anesthesia according to your condition and health status. You will not feel pain during the surgery.
A small incision or cut is made in the skin.
The hernia "sac" containing the bulging intestine is identified.
The surgeon pushes the intestine inside the hernia sac back into its proper position behind the muscle wall.
The muscle wall is reinforced with stitches or synthetic mesh to complete the repair.
Laparoscopic Surgery
How is laparoscopic hernia repair performed?
Laparoscopic surgery uses a thin, telescope-like instrument (known as an endoscope) that is inserted through a small incision at the umbilicus (belly button). Usually, this procedure is performed under general anesthesia. This requires an evaluation of your general state of health, including a history and physical exam, possibly including lab work and EKG. The endoscope is connected to a tiny video camera – smaller than a dime – that projects an "inside view" of the patient's body onto television screens in the operating room. The abdomen is inflated with a harmless gas (carbon dioxide) to allow your doctor to view your internal structures.
The peritoneum (the inner lining of your abdomen) is cut to expose the weakness in the abdominal wall. A mesh patch is attached to secure the weak area under the peritoneum.
The peritoneum is then closed with staples or sutures. Following the procedure, the small abdominal incisions are closed with a stitch or two or with surgical tape. Within a few months, the incision is barely visible.
Benefits of laparoscopic hernia surgery:
Three tiny scars rather than one larger incision
Reduced postoperative pain
Faster return to work
Shorter recovery time and earlier resumption of daily activities (a recovery time of days instead of weeks)
Your surgeon will determine the best method of repair for your individual condition.
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October 23, 2007