By this time, we all understand the excruciating pain and potential complications associated with hernias if left untreated, ranging from intestinal blockage to incarcerated and strangulated hernias.
Given that hernias don’t resolve on their own, surgery becomes the only viable treatment option. There are three primary types of hernia surgeries: open, laparoscopic (minimally invasive), and robotic repair.
Each method has its considerations, but today, our focus is on what to expect from minimally invasive hernia surgery, as elucidated by Dr Amita Jain India’s leading hernia specialist.
What is Hernia?
A hernia occurs when organs or tissues protrude through weakened spots in surrounding muscle or connective tissue.
This weakening or tearing of tissue allows intestines to push through muscles, creating a noticeable lump beneath the skin.
The type of hernia depends on the location of the weakness, with inguinal, umbilical, femoral, and incisional hernias being common variants.
Why is hernia surgery done?
The purpose of a hernia surgery is to reposition the organ and herniated tissue, fortifying the barrier that holds them in place through the use of stitches or surgical mesh.
What is the difference between laparoscopic and open surgery?
Minimally invasive hernia surgery, also known as laparoscopic hernia repair, is a modern surgical technique that involves small incisions and the use of a camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments to repair the hernia.
Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires a larger incision and longer recovery time, minimally invasive surgery offers several advantages.
Why opt for Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery?
Laparoscopic hernia repair is typically recommended for hernias that are smaller and less complex.
Patients with ventral hernias, recurrent hernias, and groin hernias often make suitable candidates for this procedure.
What to Expect from Laparoscopic Surgery?
Preoperative Precautions: Before the surgery, the doctor will review your medical history thoroughly to find out if you’re a suitable candidate for this approach.
You may have to undergo blood tests or imaging scans. The doctor needs to know whether you’re taking any medication or if you’re pregnant.
To get ready for the surgery, you will be advised to eat a healthy, balanced diet, quit smoking, etc.
The Procedure: During laparoscopic hernia repair, you’ll be under general anesthesia and will have a breathing tube inserted.
The surgeon makes three small incisions in your lower abdomen, each less than half an inch. A laparoscope is inserted through one of these incisions to visualize the hernia on a monitor.
Using the monitor’s guidance, the surgeon removes the hernia sac and places a prosthetic mesh over the hernia defect.
Care is taken to avoid damaging nearby nerves, blood vessels, and the vas deferens. The small incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches.
It’s essential to discuss all options with your surgeon to determine the best approach for you.
Risks: Like any other surgery, laparoscopic surgery too is associated with minor risks like infection at the site of incision or internally around the hernia repair site, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and occasional recurrence of the hernia.
However, laparoscopic surgery causes less scarring and involves fewer pain medications and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
What are the Benefits of Minimally Invasive Method?
Benefits that one can have are:
- Smaller incisions
- Faster Recovery
- Shorter operating room (OR) times
- Faster return to daily activities
- Less post-operative pain
It can diagnose and repair hidden hernias during surgery, avoiding extra cuts. Since many have unseen hernias, fixing both sides at once helps.
Lower chance of hernia recurrence
Post Surgery
Following laparoscopic hernia repair, most patients can return home the same day. The duration of hospital stay varies based on individual health.
Generally, patients can resume work within a week and normal activities within one to two weeks. Adherence to postoperative instructions and attending follow-up appointments is crucial for optimal recovery and successful outcomes.
Practice walking daily but avoid doing strenuous activities. In case of fever above 100.4°F, shaking chills, etc, then don’t hesitate to call your doctor right away.
Now that you know what to expect from laparoscopic hernia surgery—smaller incisions, faster recovery, and lower risks—it’s clear why many opt for this minimally invasive approach.
Don’t forget to consult your doctor for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific health needs.
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