Surgery to repair your hernia can sound scary. However, without surgical treatment, hernias can cause long-term health problems. Surgical repair is often required when you are diagnosed with a hernia. Currently, open and laparoscopic methods and mesh are used. The method of repair depends on the hernia location, size of defect, body type, and other factors. Keep reading to understand the different types of surgical treatment options and what to expect after your hernia surgery.
Types of Hernia Surgery Treatment Options
Laparoscopic
The laparoscopic procedure is one of the ways doctors treat hernias. During the procedure, the doctor will make several small incisions and use a laparoscope to be able to view the inside of your abdominal cavity. Here are some benefits of the laparoscopic procedure:
- Minimally invasive
- Quicker recovery
Open Repair
Open repair is the original method before the advent of surgery with scopes. Open surgery requires anesthesia, and will consist of a large incision over the hernia to repair the hernia and abdominal muscle wall. Mesh may or may not be used during the procedure to help better support the damaged muscle. Here are some benefits of the open repair procedure:
- Additional support for your abdominal wall
- The more economic option
- Can be repaired with or without mesh
Which Surgery Option is Better?
This is a common question we get on the different types of surgical hernia treatments. The type of hernia, patient preference, status of the patient’s health, and surgeon experience all comprise the answer.
If you are diagnosed with an inguinal hernia, it’s important to note that many surgeons, who do not perform the laparoscopic repair, will tell you that it does not matter which surgical method you use. However, for inguinal hernia repair, we will commonly use the laparoscopic method, as it is minimally invasive and research finds it better for inguinal hernia repairs.
How Long Does it Take to Recover?
Recovery from hernia surgery is very individual. However, many people recover fully within the first three weeks. It is important to take it easy and care for your body for a full three weeks. Whether you feel like it or not, your body may still be recovering.
What to Expect After Surgery
It’s important to get a lot of sleep, drink plenty of water, and eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables to help aid in your recovery. It’s important to have someone who will drive you home after your procedure. You also need to take it easy physically. Walking and movement may be restricted by your doctor for some time after the procedure.
Typically following hernia surgery, you are observed for a few hours but are generally released that same day to return home. Typically, discomfort will quickly diminish during the first few days after surgery.
Other Groin & Pelvic Pain Related Blogs:
–How to Reduce Your Risk of Developing an Inguinal Hernia
–Possible Causes of Pelvic Pain
