Hernia surgery is a common and effective procedure for treating hernias, a condition where an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While some hernias may not require immediate surgery, many cases eventually need surgical intervention to prevent complications. If you or a loved one is scheduled for hernia surgery, understanding the process can help ease anxiety and prepare you for a smooth experience as shared by Dr Amita Jain, an eminent laparoscopic surgeon and specialist doctor and surgeon for hernia repair surgery in Delhi and India.
What to do before hernia surgery?
The journey begins with a detailed consultation and diagnosis. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan to assess the severity of the hernia. Based on the findings, they will determine whether you need surgery and which type would be most suitable—open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.
In the days leading up to the procedure, your doctor will provide pre-surgical guidelines. You may need to undergo certain medical tests to ensure you are fit for surgery. If you take medications, especially blood thinners, your doctor might adjust or temporarily stop them to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding. Additionally, you’ll be advised to fast for several hours before the procedure to prevent complications related to anaesthesia. For smokers, quitting before surgery is strongly recommended, as smoking can slow down the healing process.
What to do during hernia surgery?
Hernia surgery typically lasts between 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the surgical method used. There are two primary approaches—open surgery and laparoscopic surgery.
In open surgery, the surgeon makes a single large incision to access and repair the hernia. The protruding tissue is carefully pushed back into place, and the weakened area is reinforced using stitches or a surgical mesh to prevent recurrence. This method is commonly used for larger or more complicated hernias.
Laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon makes small incisions and inserts a tiny camera, called a laparoscope, to guide the repair. The hernia is then fixed using mesh and small surgical instruments. This method is often preferred because it results in less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
After the Surgery
Following the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and ensure that you wake up safely from anesthesia. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, which is managed with pain medications prescribed by the doctor. In most cases, patients are encouraged to start moving within a few hours to reduce the risk of blood clots and speed up recovery.
At home, rest is crucial, but complete inactivity is not recommended. Light walking can help with circulation and prevent complications. However, strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks to allow the surgical site to heal properly. Keeping the incision area clean and dry is essential to prevent infection, and your doctor will provide specific instructions on wound care.
Eating a fibre-rich diet and drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent constipation, which is common after surgery due to pain medications and reduced physical activity. Straining during bowel movements can put pressure on the repaired area, so it’s important to maintain good digestion.
When to Seek Medical Attention?
While most hernia surgeries are successful with minimal complications, it is important to watch for warning signs. If you experience severe pain, redness, or swelling around the incision, fever, persistent nausea, or difficulty urinating, contact your doctor immediately. These could indicate infection or other post-surgical complications that require medical attention.
Hernia surgery is a safe and effective procedure that offers long-term relief from discomfort and prevents serious complications. By following your doctor’s advice before and after the surgery, you can ensure a smooth recovery and return to your normal activities within a few weeks. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider to discuss the best course of action for your specific condition.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with the 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 and Sr. General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Rainbow Children Hospitals, Malviya Nagar, Delhi.