What Men Need to Know About Hernia Repair Surgery
Hernias are common, but often misunderstood. Many men are unaware of the signs and symptoms associated with hernias, and may be reluctant to seek medical attention. In addition, they may have misconceptions about what a hernia repair surgery entails. It is important for men to understand the facts about hernia repair surgery so that they can make an informed decision about their healthcare.
Men are eight times more likely to develop an inguinal hernia than women.
What is a hernia?
A hernia is a protrusion of an organ that occurs when the muscle structure or connective tissue that holds the organ in place weakens or tears. This can be quite painful and, depending on the type of hernia, can require surgery for repair. If you’re considering hernia repair surgery, it’s important to understand what it entails and how it works.
The most common types of hernias are inguinal (inner groin), incisional (resulting from an incision), femoral (outer groin), umbilical (belly button), and hiatal (upper stomach). Common signs and symptoms associated with hernias include pain and discomfort in the affected area, swelling or bulging around the area, weakness or pressure in the affected area, difficulty moving or coughing/lifting heavy objects, nausea or vomiting, and a burning sensation in the affected area. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Types of Hernias and Surgical Procedures
Hernias come in several types, but the most common are inguinal hernias (located in the groin area) and umbilical hernias (located around the belly button). The type of surgical procedure used for hernia repair will depend on the size and location of the hernia, as well as your overall health. For example, some surgery may include a mesh patch being placed into the weakened area to provide additional support while others may require open or laparoscopic surgery.
Details of the surgery
At Pall Mall, we offer two different types of hernia repair surgery, starting from £2,950
Surgical methods: open (standard method at Pall Mall) or keyhole (laparoscopic)
Open surgery:
- Surgeon makes a cut through your abdomen
- Repair the weak tissue either with stitches or using a synthetic mesh (which will be stitched to the muscles under your skin)
- Surgeon will close the skin over the repair.
- Procedure lasts 40-60 minutes at our Private Hospital, located in Newton-le-Willows
- Day case procedure / pt goes home the same day
Keyhole 'laparoscopic' - four small incisions made through the abdominal wall through which a small thin telescope and surgical instruments are positioned to examine and correct with the hernia internally
Anaesthesia
Typically local anaesthetic - which allows a faster recovery and return to normal activities
General is available too.
Full recovery takes 4-6 weeks
Preparing for Surgery
Before any kind of hernia repair surgery takes place, it’s important to prepare both your body and mind for what lies ahead. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions about how to prepare for surgery including things like stopping smoking if you smoke and eating a healthy diet before your operation day arrives. It’s also important that you discuss any lifestyle changes you need to make after your operation such as avoiding strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects until you are given clearance.
When to seek medical assistance?
A common misconception about hernias is that you can “wait it out” when it comes to getting treated for a hernia—but this isn't true either! If left untreated for too long, complications such as tissue death or even gangrene could occur due to lack of blood supply in the affected area—so it's important not to wait too long before seeking help if you think you have a hernia!
A hernia can happen to anyone at any age, but there are other certain groups of people particularly susceptible to hernia development aside from men. Those who strain their abdominal muscles during physical labour or activities such as lifting heavy objects, or pregnant women due to the shift in the weight and balance of their bodies are most likely to experience hernias. Other risk factors may include being overweight or having bladder problems that increase abdominal pressure. If hernia repair surgery is required, it is important to seek medical attention and follow post-operative instructions closely to ensure maximum success in avoiding hernia recurrence.
Hernia repair surgeries are highly successful procedures that have helped countless people overcome their hernia issues so they can live a more comfortable life. Men should be aware of potential signs and symptoms associated with hernias so they can seek appropriate medical attention if needed. It’s valuable to know what types of surgeries are available and how best to prepare for them. Ultimately though, it’s best to consult with your doctor so that together you can decide which treatment option is best for you based on your individual needs and situation!
Improve your quality of life with our hernia repair surgery.
Tired of waiting for help with your health? At Pall Mall there are no waiting lists and no GP referral needed.You can book in for a consultation with our surgeon Mr Prasad, at our Private hospital in Newton-Le-Willows where your surgery will be carried out.
