Hernia Surgery Q & A

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when an organ, part of the intestine, or fatty tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the muscular wall meant to contain it. Most hernias occur in the abdominal wall. 

The location of your hernia determines the type, which includes:

  • Inguinal hernia: Protrusion in the inner groin area
  • Femoral hernia: Protrusion on the upper thigh or outer groin area
  • Ventral hernia: Protrusion in the abdominal area
  • Hiatal hernia: When a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity

If you have a hernia, you may notice a lump or bulge that may cause some pain when standing or lifting heavy objects. The bulge may disappear when you lie down. 

Who needs hernia surgery?

The team at Surgical Clinic, PC conducts comprehensive examinations to determine if you need surgery to repair your hernia.

Surgery is the primary treatment for a hernia. However, if you have a hernia without symptoms, your surgeon may take a wait-and-see approach.  

You may need hernia surgery if you have symptoms or you have tissue trapped in the hernia. If you have a strangulated hernia, meaning that blood supply is cut off from the trapped tissue, you need surgery right away. 

What are the types of hernia surgery?

The highly skilled team at Surgical Clinic, PC may repair your hernia using one of two surgical techniques. The types of hernia surgery include:

Traditional open surgery

During traditional open surgery, your surgeon makes an incision through the skin, muscle, and fat at the site of your hernia to repair the weakened tissue. Your surgeon may stitch the weakened muscle or use a surgical mesh to strengthen the weakened tissue. After the procedure, your surgeon closes the incisions.

Laparoscopic surgery

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique. During this procedure, your surgeon makes a small incision near the site of your hernia and uses a laparoscope — a thin tube with a light and camera — to see the surgical site.

Your surgeon makes additional small incisions to insert the surgical instruments they need to repair the hernia. Your surgeon may stitch the tissue or place a surgical mesh.

When you have a hernia, you need a skilled surgical team that can offer you the best options to repair it. Call Surgical Clinic, PC, or schedule an appointment online today.

 

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