Hernia treatment and laparoscopic hernia repair in Neelankarai, ECR
A bulge in the groin or near the navel? Learn about hernia types, warning signs and laparoscopic repair with the surgical team at Healtree Hospital, ECR.
By the Healtree Hospital clinical team.
A hernia is a bulge that forms when tissue, often part of the bowel, pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, usually in the groin or around the navel. Hernias do not heal on their own and tend to grow, so most are repaired with surgery. At Healtree Hospital, Neelankarai, ECR, the general surgeons repair most hernias laparoscopically, through small incisions.
Common types of hernia
- Inguinal hernia: a bulge in the groin, the most common type, especially in men
- Umbilical and paraumbilical hernia: around the navel, common after pregnancy and in children
- Incisional hernia: through the scar of an earlier abdominal operation
- Femoral hernia: low in the groin, more common in women and more likely to get stuck
- Hiatus hernia: part of the stomach slides up into the chest, often causing acidity
Symptoms
Most hernias show as a soft swelling that gets bigger when you stand, cough or strain, and goes back when you lie down. There may be a dragging ache or discomfort, especially by the end of the day or after lifting.
When a hernia is an emergency
A hernia can become trapped (incarcerated) or lose its blood supply (strangulated). Come to the emergency department straight away if the swelling becomes hard, painful or red, will not go back in, or comes with vomiting, a swollen tummy or not passing wind or stools. Healtree Hospital's emergency department on ECR is open 24 hours.
How a hernia is diagnosed
Most hernias are diagnosed by the surgeon examining you while you stand and cough. An ultrasound is used when the swelling is small or the diagnosis is unclear, and occasionally a CT scan for complex or recurrent hernias.
Treatment
Surgery is the only permanent fix. A very small hernia with no symptoms is sometimes watched, but most are repaired once found, before they grow or cause complications.
- Laparoscopic (key-hole) repair: a few small incisions, less pain and a quicker return to work, and suitable for both sides at once
- Open repair: a single incision over the hernia, used for some hernias and patients
- A mesh is used in most adult repairs to reinforce the weak area and lower the chance of recurrence
- Many repairs are done as day-care or with a one-night stay
Recovery
Most people walk the same day and return to desk work within one to two weeks after laparoscopic repair. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for four to six weeks. The surgeon will give advice specific to your operation.
See a specialist in Neelankarai, ECR
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Our General & Laparoscopic Surgery team at Healtree Multi-Speciality Centre & Hospital can assess your situation. The hospital is open 24 hours.
Specialists: Dr. Habeeb Mohamed, Dr. V. Sarath Kumar
Related services: Laparoscopy, Day-Care Procedures, 24/7 Emergency Care
Frequently asked questions
- Can a hernia go away without surgery?
- No. A hernia does not close on its own, and belts or trusses only hold it in temporarily. Surgery is the only lasting treatment, though a small hernia without symptoms is sometimes watched first.
- Is laparoscopic hernia surgery painful?
- There is some soreness for a few days, usually controlled with simple painkillers. Laparoscopic repair generally causes less pain than open surgery because the incisions are small.
- Will a mesh be used in my hernia repair?
- In most adult hernia repairs, yes. A mesh strengthens the weak area and reduces the risk of the hernia coming back. The surgeon will discuss the type of repair before the operation.
- How long does it take to recover from hernia surgery?
- Most people resume light activity within a few days and desk work in one to two weeks. Avoid heavy lifting for four to six weeks or as your surgeon advises.
- Can a hernia come back after surgery?
- It can, but it is uncommon after a mesh repair. Keeping a healthy weight, treating chronic cough or constipation and avoiding heavy lifting during recovery lower the risk.
Related reading
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