In males, it is commonly found in the groin region and known as Inguinal Hernia while in females, it is seen in the abdominal area, known as ventral hernia. Sometimes, hernia occurs after prior surgery which is called an incisional hernia.
1. What is Hernia?
Hernia is basically protrusion of fat or intra-abdominal organs through a weakness or defect in the layers of the abdominal wall.
2. What are the different types of Hernia?
3. What are the symptoms of hernia?
Hernia is usually associated with swelling in the region of the weakness which increases during exertion and often disappears on lying down. There can be mild dragging pain related to the swelling. Sometimes, there is severe pain and the swelling becomes tense and tender. This is an emergency known as obstruction/strangulation of the hernia and requires immediate operation.
4. What is the treatment of hernia?
The treatment of all hernias is surgical repair, which can be open or Laparoscopic. Nowadays, laparoscopic repair is preferred in which a large mesh is placed within the abdomen which seals the defect and prevents the hernia from forming again.
5. When should the patient get operated if hernia develops?
The current recommendation is to get operated as soon as possible to avoid the chances of complications.
6. How much time does operation take and what is the length of stay?
The duration of operation depends upon the type of hernia. Usually takes around 60 -90 minutes to perform and the length of stay for an uncomplicated case is around 2 days.
7. What kind of diet is advised after surgery?
The patient is started on liquids 4-6 hours after the operation. They can take soft diet the next day and can have their full diet 2-3 days after the surgery.