Small hernias don’t usually require hernia repair. In these cases, our doctors in Evansville prefer to monitor symptoms and move forward with surgery only when 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. We provide both open and 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.
The Goals of Hernia Repair
The primary goal of hernia repair is to return the protruding organ or tissue to its proper position within the abdominal cavity and reinforce the weakened area to prevent recurrence. This is typically achieved through surgery. Your surgeon will push the herniated contents back into place and then repair the defect in the abdominal wall and strengthen the area.
The repair aims to:
- Alleviate symptoms such as pain and discomfort
- Prevent potential complications
- Restore normal function to the affected area
Successful hernia repair should provide long-term relief and minimize the risk of the hernia returning. This allows you to resume your normal activities without restrictions.
Treatment in Evansville, IN
The two main types of hernia surgery are:
- 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 weakened areas so you can live comfortably again. However, these surgical methods use different-sized incisions that can affect the amount of pain experienced, recovery time, and more.
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 for your medical team to work.
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. 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. You may even be 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.
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 an 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.
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.
What To Expect During Recovery
Recovery from hernia surgery typically takes 4-6 weeks, though individual experiences may vary. You can expect some pain and discomfort in the first few days after surgery which can be managed with prescribed medications. Most people can return home on the same day as the procedure.
Rest is crucial during the initial week, but gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation. You can usually resume light activities gradually after 1-2 weeks and you may be able to return to a desk job within a few days to two weeks. However, strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks.
It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, including proper wound care and medication use. Full recovery may take up to six weeks, during which time you should listen to your body and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
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 to contact us or schedule an appointment. We are available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.
