One of India’s best Hernia Repair Surgeons in India in the field of Laparoscopic Surgery Dr Amita Jain Explains
Hernia is a medical condition that occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While surgical repair is the primary treatment for hernias, they tend to recur. Hernias often develop gradually as a result of muscle deterioration over time, while injuries, surgeries, and birth defects can also be contributing factors.
Hernias that resurface in proximity to or at the site of a prior surgical repair are termed recurrent hernias. Read on this blog from Dr Amita Jain India’s leading laparoscopy surgeon for hernia.
What causes the recurrence of hernia?
1. Surgical technique:
The selection of the surgical approach and the expertise of the surgeon conducting the operation can impact the probability of recurrence. An improperly executed procedure or insufficient repair may result in an increased chance of recurrence.
2. Tissue weakness:
Hernia repairs that rely on stitching the hernia without using mesh have the highest likelihood of recurrence. It is estimated that up to 30% of such repairs may experience a recurrence. This is due to the gradual weakening of the tissue around the sutures over time, and the strain on the abdomen can eventually lead to the tearing of the tissue.
3. Physical strain:
Engaging in activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or straining during bowel movements, can put stress on the repaired area and potentially cause a recurrence.
4. Complications or infections:
Post-surgical complications, such as wound infections, can impair proper healing and increase the risk of hernia recurrence.
5. Lifestyle factors:
Certain lifestyle choices, such as obesity, smoking, and poor nutrition, can weaken the tissues and impair the healing process, making hernia recurrence more likely.
6. Patient’s medical history:
A patient’s medical history, such as previous hernia surgeries or weak abdominal muscles, can contribute to the development of recurrent hernias.
Symptoms of a recurrent hernia include the following:
- Bulge or swelling: Look for a protrusion or bulge in the abdomen or groin region, indicating a possible hernia recurrence.
- Pain: Recurrence of a hernia can cause pain at the site of the previous repair or in the surrounding area especially when coughing, sneezing or lifting heavy objects.
- Redness or tenderness: Check for any redness, warmth, or increased tenderness around the hernia repair site.
- Bloating or constipation
How to Prevent Hernia Recurrence?
While hernia recurrence cannot be completely eliminated, certain measures can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some preventive strategies to consider:
- Maintain a healthy weight as obesity places additional strain on the abdominal wall, increasing the risk of hernia development and recurrence. A balanced diet and regular exercise can prevent hernia recurrence.
- Lift properly: Use your legs, not your back, to lift heavy objects. Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and avoid sudden movements.
- Quit smoking: Quit smoking to improve post-surgery healing, reduce hernia recurrence risk, and enhance overall healing capacity.
There are a few surgical options to treat recurrent hernias such as Open hernia repair, Laparoscopic hernia repair, Robotic-assisted hernia repair, etc. Do not ignore the symptoms of a recurrent hernia. Consult your doctor immediately.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi