Hernia repair is generally considered to be a low-risk surgery and many individuals undergo successful hernia repairs without any complications. Hernia repair is very commonly used to remedy an inguinal hernia, and complications are uncommon.
That said, hernia repair is still a surgical procedure, and all surgical procedures carry some level of risk. The specific risk potentially associated with hernia repair surgery depends on a variety of factors, such as the individual’s age and underlying health conditions, the type of hernia, the surgical approach used, and the anesthesia administered.
The most common risks associated with hernia repair include infection, which can occur at the site of the incision, as well as damage to surrounding nerves and organs. Additionally, hernia repair surgeries can result in internal bleeding or continued hernia recurrence.
The risks of hernia repair tend to be greater in elderly patients, as well as in patients who have other chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems. Fortunately, the risk of major complications due to hernia repair surgery is low, and most individuals are able to return home the same day with just minimal, temporary pain or soreness.
What is the risk of hernia repair?
The risks associated with hernia repair can vary depending on the type of procedure performed. However, some risks are common with all types of hernia repair, such as infection, bleeding, pain, allergic reactions to materials used in the surgery, recurrence of the hernia, and potential injury to nerves or other nearby organs.
More specific risks of hernia repair include blockage of the intestine, injury to the bladder, or damage to reproductive organs. Additionally, there is the risk of anesthetic complications, such as anaphylaxis, nerve injury, and reaction to blood transfusions.
Your doctor should explain the risks involved in your particular procedure. Make sure to ask questions about any concerns you may have. Be sure you thoroughly understand the risks before undergoing hernia repair.
What percentage of hernia surgeries have complications?
The exact percentage of hernia surgeries with complications is difficult to determine, as there is no universal definition of a complication. According to a study by the Hernia Research Foundation, about 30 percent of hernia repairs had at least one complication or recurrence within three years of the initial procedure.
That same study found that, within the same three-year time frame, 15 percent of hernia repairs had a major complication, defined as one that requires medical care or intervention.
In addition, a study from the American College of Surgeons showed that 6.9 percent of hernia surgeries have complications that require hospitalization or return to the operating room for further treatment.
Furthermore, the National Center for Biotechnology Information cites a study in which over 11 percent of hernia patients develop infections after their surgery and up to one third of hernia patients suffered from some degree of chronic pain following their procedure.
Overall, the percentage of hernia surgeries with complications can vary widely depending on the type of hernia, patient’s health prior to surgery, and the experience of the surgeon who conducts the procedure.
Additionally, the definition of “complication” varies widely, which further affects the reported percentage.
How many hours does hernia surgery take?
The actual time of hernia surgery varies depending upon the type of surgery being performed and the individual patient. Generally, most hernia surgeries can be completed within an hour. Open hernia repair typically takes between 1-2 hours, while laparoscopic hernia surgery may take between 30 minutes to an hour.
In addition to the time for the actual procedure, time for pre- and post-operative care may add an additional hour or two to the total surgical time.
Which is better open or laparoscopic hernia repair?
The decision of which surgical method to use for hernia repair, open or laparoscopic, is often left to the discretion of the surgeon. Factors such as the size and location of the hernia, the health of the patient, and the physician’s preferences and experience all factor into this decision.
Open hernia repair is a traditional, open surgery that involves making a lengthy incision in the abdominal wall to access the hernia. It is not necessarily more hazardous, but there is a greater risk of complications associated with large incisions, including infection and suffering pain post-surgery.
The positives of this approach are that the hernia can be seen and repaired easily, and it may be the best surgical option for larger hernias.
Laparoscopic hernia repair is a minimally invasive technique involving the use of small incisions and tiny instruments. This approach generally requires general anesthesia, though local anesthesia may sometimes be used.
General benefits of this technique are fewer wound complications, lower risk of hernia recurrence, and faster recovery time. However, it is a more complex and specialized procedure, requiring more skill from the surgeon than open hernia repair.
Ultimately, the decision of which approach to take for hernia repair should be made in consultation with a physician experienced in hernia repair to ensure that the best method for the individual’s particular situation is chosen.
How long will I have a bulge after hernia surgery?
The length of time you experience a bulge after hernia surgery will depend on the type of hernia you have and the treatment you receive. Generally, it can take up to six weeks to fully recover from hernia surgery.
During the recovery process, it is possible that patients may experience a bulge and slight discomfort as the body adapts to its newly constructed hernia. Depending on the size and location of the hernia, the bulge may become more noticeable during activities that involve straining, coughing, or even lifting.
Your doctor may have prescribed medications or physical therapy to aide in the recovery process, which can help minimize the discomfort and minimize the visible bulge. Additionally, doctors may advise refraining from certain activities, such as heavy lifting, which can exacerbate symptoms.
If you are experiencing a bulge for long periods of time or it becomes painful, contact your doctor for further guidance. Following the treatment plan will help ensure that you are able to recover from hernia surgery in a timely manner.
Is there bed rest after hernia surgery?
Yes, bed rest is recommended after hernia surgery. It’s a good idea to plan for several days of bedrest in order to allow your body to properly heal. Generally, it is recommended that you remain in bed at least a few days following the operation.
This period of rest should last at least a week and possibly longer depending on the type of hernia repair and your individual health needs. During this time, it is important to keep the incision clean and dry and take care of your wound as instructed by your doctor.
You should also get plenty of rest and avoid any strenuous activity or lifting. It is also important to avoid the bathroom if possible and use a stool softener if needed to minimize straining. When you do get up for the first time, it is best to move slowly and carefully.
Avoid any sudden movements or extra pressure on the abdominal area to avoid any further damage. With proper rest and following your doctor’s instructions, you should be able to heal properly and get back to regular activities over time.
How long does a hernia operation take?
A hernia operation typically takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on the type of procedure being done. Open surgery can take slightly longer, while laparoscopic or robotic operations take less time.
The entire hospital stay usually lasts between 1-3 days, though some cases may require a longer stay. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the abdominal wall and repair the hernia by stitching the weakened area together.
Recovery time can range from 2-6 weeks, depending on factors such as the type of procedure and the overall health of the patient. After recovery, patients are encouraged to follow up with their doctor regularly to ensure that the hernia does not return.
Is it worth getting hernia surgery?
Whether or not it is worth getting hernia surgery depends on the individual and the severity of the hernia. Most hernias do not require surgery, and mild hernias can be successfully treated with lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and self-care techniques.
However, if a hernia is causing extreme discomfort, is growing, or is a risk to the individual’s health, hernia surgery is likely the best option. It is important to discuss with a doctor what the potential benefits of the surgery are, as well as any potential risks and/or side-effects associated with the procedure.
While hernia surgery is generally very safe and effective, there can be some risks associated with it. These risks can include infection, reaction to anesthesia, and risk of recurrence of the hernia.
It is important to discuss any potential risks or restrictions with the doctor prior to undergoing hernia surgery.
In most cases, hernia surgery is the most effective way to address the issue and should be considered a long-term solution. Due to the potential risks involved, it is best to go through with hernia surgery only when it is absolutely necessary.
Can you live without repairing a hernia?
Yes, you can live without repairing a hernia, however, it isn’t recommended for several reasons. Hernias can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and tenderness, difficulty passing stools, a feeling of fullness, nausea, and vomiting.
If left untreated, a hernia can also cause serious health problems such as intestinal blockage or strangulation. In a strangulated hernia, intestinal tissues may become twisted or cut off, leading to cell death or infection which can have life-threatening consequences.
For these reasons it is best to seek medical attention and repair the hernia. Consulting a doctor can help determine the type of hernia and the best course of action for your individual situation.
How often does hernia surgery go wrong?
Generally, hernia surgery is a safe and effective procedure, and complications or the need for revision surgery are quite rare. According to research, hernia surgery complications occur in less than 5% of cases.
Complications that may occur include infection, fluid accumulation (seroma), protrusion of the mesh, nerve damage, adhesion, recurrence of hernia, chronic pain, and allergic reaction to the mesh. Some of these complications can increase the risk of needing a revision surgery.
Also, those who have hernia surgery in an emergency setting have an increased risk of having a complication compared to those who receive their surgery electively. It is important to note that the chance of a complication may also be affected by the technique used and the skill of the surgeon.
Therefore, it is important to choose an experienced and board-certified general surgeon for this procedure.
Can you live a normal life after hernia surgery?
Yes, you can live a normal life after hernia surgery. Generally, most people can return to light activities, such as walking and going up and down stairs, within a few days of the surgery. Most people are able to return to normal physical activity, such as running or lifting weights, in two to four weeks.
Of course, you should always follow your doctor’s specific instructions for recovery after surgery.
Your recovery and ability to return to your normal activities will depend on several factors, such as the type of hernia and the complexity of the repair. Recovery time also depends on how active you are before and after surgery.
In general, it is important to get enough rest and to avoid strenuous activities during recovery.
In addition to rest, certain medications may be prescribed for comfort, usually in the first few days following the surgery. Ice packs may help reduce the swelling and discomfort in the affected area.
If a tension-free hernia repair is done, your doctor may recommend that you wear a supportive hernia belt to help aid in the healing process and protect the area against further straining. In all cases, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to help ensure a safe recovery.
If you want to speed up your recovery, it is also important to follow your doctor’s advice with regards to diet and exercise. Eating a balanced diet high in lean protein and fibre, and low in processed foods, can help you feel your best.
In particular, avoid foods and drinks with a lot of sugar or fat. Incorporating light exercises, such as walking or stretching, can also help in your healing and can often prevent reoccurrence of hernias.
With appropriate surgery and postoperative care, most people can expect to return to normal activities without difficulty. Taking a proactive role in both your diet and physical activity can also help make a full recovery even easier.
