Small hernias don’t usually require hernia repair in Evansville, IN. In these cases, many doctors prefer to monitor symptoms until it becomes necessary. Depending on the type of hernia you have, non-surgical treatment may only require extra support or over-the-counter medications. However, hernia surgery can become necessary once your symptoms become severe and begin impacting your quality of life.
All of our surgeons at Evansville Surgical Associates are certified in hernia repair. You will receive open or minimally invasive surgery depending on the size and location of your hernia. As with all types of surgery, there is always a slight risk of complications. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for the best surgery and recovery possible.
Surgeons Specializing in Hernia Repair Near Me
At Evansville Surgical Associates, our team of fellowship-trained and board-certified surgeons are qualified to treat hernias in all forms. From the simplest hiatal hernia repair to the most intricate inguinal hernia repair, we are here to serve our community and the tri-state area when a hernia occurs.
Hernia Repair in Evansville, IN
Hernia repair in Evansville, IN, comes in two main types:
- Minimally invasive surgery
- Open surgery
The type your surgeon suggests will depend on the size and location of your hernia. Both involve moving herniated tissue or the organ back into place and repairing the weak areas so you can live comfortably again.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic repair) begins with a harmless gas being injected into your abdomen. This inflates your stomach, providing more room to work and making it easier for your medical team to see what they are doing.
Once the abdomen has been inflated, your surgeon makes a small incision at your belly button to insert the laparoscope. A laparoscope is a special fiber optic tool with a camera and light on the end, allowing your surgeon to see what they are doing without the need to create larger incisions. Your doctor uses it along with other surgical instruments to repair your hernia.
Once the tools are in place, your surgeon gently moves the herniated organ or body part back to its correct position. A piece of mesh is then placed over the weakened area of your abdominal wall. It is held in place using stitches, surgical clips, or staples. Once the hernia repair with mesh has been completed, the gas is released from your abdomen and the incisions are closed.
General anesthesia is often used for minimally invasive hernia repair, putting you in a sleep-like state during surgery. Your surgeon will perform an evaluation beforehand to ensure that you are healthy enough to be put under anesthesia. This will include an evaluation of your overall health as well as your medical history, a physical exam, and possibly other tests.
Laparoscopic repair also comes with a host of benefits for patients. This includes a reduced risk of:
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Infection
One of the biggest benefits of laparoscopic hernia repair is that it allows for shorter stays in the hospital. Many patients are even able to go home the same day after being monitored and receiving medication. You can return to work a few days following your minimally invasive hernia repair surgery recovery.
To learn the answers to seven of the most common questions about hernias, click here!
Open Surgery
Open surgery is what most people think of when they imagine a surgical procedure. Also known as traditional hernia repair, open hernia surgery involves creating a large incision several inches long close to the hernia’s location. Rather than using a laparoscope, your surgeon locates the herniated organ or body part and gently moves it back to its original position.
Once put back in place, your doctor will repair the weak spot using stitches. Local anesthesia is often used during this procedure. Unlike general anesthesia which puts you in a sleep-like state, local anesthesia only numbs the area being operated on. It is injected at the site that will be operated on so you don’t feel a thing during your surgical procedure.
Click here to learn more about the difference between minimally invasive surgery and open surgery!
Is Hernia Repair Dangerous?
There are risks involved with every surgical procedure and hernia repair is no different. Along with general surgical risks, complications of hernia repair can include nerve damage, pain, and even the hernia returning. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of these complications and have the best recovery possible.
This includes:
- Avoiding strenuous activity until your doctor says otherwise
- Taking prescription medications as directed
- Letting us know if you have any allergies before surgery
For the best surgery and recovery possible, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines to the letter. By following their instructions, you will be in the best position to avoid complications and return to the life that you love.
Do you need treatment for a hernia in Evansville, IN? Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
At Evansville Surgical Associates, all of our surgeons are qualified in hernia repair. The most common forms of surgery are open or minimally invasive surgery and the type you receive will depend on the size and location of your hernia. Like all forms of surgery, there is a risk of complications with hernia repair. Follow your doctor’s instructions for the best possible outcome.
Evansville Surgical Associates has been providing comprehensive and compassionate surgical care for over 50 years. Call us at (812) 424-8231 or (800) 264-8231. We are available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm if you would like to schedule an appointment.
