A hernia occurs when the protective layers of the abdomen become damaged or torn, and appear as a bulge. Since the intestine can pass through the affected area and cause more damage, hernias can be life-threatening if not treated properly.
Some of the most common types of hernias include; congenital (when a person is born with the hernia), inguinal (found in the groin area), umbilical (near the belly button area), and incisional (near previous surgical incisions).
Common Hernia Symptoms
- Mild to Severe Abdominal Pain
- Lump in the Abdominal Area
- Straining to Urinate or Defecate
- Inflammation or Redness of the Affected Area
Hernia Repair Surgery
Although there are special devices and creams available to help with the discomfort brought on by a hernia, the only effective treatment for the condition is surgery. Delaying the procedure is dangerous, as the intestine may become trapped and blood supply to that area is cut off. Talking to your doctor about the different treatment options available and deciding what is best for you can help prevent complications from developing.
There are two main methods in which hernia surgery is performed;
- Open Repair – This surgical method is the traditional type and has been used for decades. The surgery may be performed with general anesthesia as well as local anesthesia. Open repair surgery usually includes a longer recovery period and can be slightly more painful than other surgical methods.
- Laparoscopic Hernia Repair – This type of surgery is fairly new, but is quickly becoming the favored surgical technique. Laparoscopic hernia repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure which can be done using general or local anesthesia.
Risks Associated with Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
Some of the most common risks involved with laparoscopic hernia surgery include; excess bleeding, infection, accidental injury to other parts of the body (bladder, nerves, blood vessels, etc.), and trouble urinating for a short period after the procedure.
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Benefits
- Shorter Hospitalization Stay
- Fast Recovery
- Less Pain
- Smaller Incisions
- Decreased Risk of Scar Formation
Recovery time for a hernia repair surgery is usually not long, especially if the procedure is done using laparoscopic technology. With laparoscopic hernia surgery, the majority of people are able to go home the same day of the surgery, and can go back to their normal daily routines within a short period.
If left untreated, hernias can pose a threat to your health and often be life-threatening. Today, surgery is considered safer than it was years ago and people suffering from hernias and other health conditions can regain their normal lives. Bay Surgical Specialists are available to help you make the right choice.
For more information regarding hernia surgical repair go to http://baysurgicalspecialists.com or set an appointment.
