When Hernia Surgery is needed?

As a Hernia Specialist in Mumbai, we have been asked multiple times, the hernia needs Surgery on an emergency basis or always Hernia is repaired by Surgery only. In this blog post, we have explained in detail, When Hernia Surgery is needed. What are the Symptoms of hernia, Treatment options etc?

Dr Pradeep Shriyan

July 4, 2024

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot or opening in the muscle or connective tissue that holds it in place. These protrusions can occur in various parts of the body, but they are most common in the abdomen (Epigastric Hernia), groin, and upper thigh regions.

Causes of Hernias

Several factors can contribute to the development of a hernia, including:

Increased pressure within the abdomen: This can result from chronic coughing, straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting, or pregnancy.
Weakness or defect in the abdominal wall: Some people are born with weakened abdominal muscles or connective tissue, making them more susceptible to hernias.
Previous surgery: Operations involving incisions in the abdominal wall can weaken the area and increase the risk of a hernia developing at the incision site.
Ageing: As we grow older, the muscles and connective tissues become weaker, increasing the likelihood of developing a hernia.

Symptoms of Hernias

The most common symptoms of a hernia include:

A visible bulge or protrusion in the affected area, which may become more prominent when coughing, straining, or standing up
Dull aching or burning sensation in the area of the bulge
Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities
In severe cases, nausea, vomiting, or intestinal obstruction (if the hernia becomes incarcerated or strangulated)

Diagnostic Procedures

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach for a hernia. Your doctor may recommend the following tests or imaging procedures:

Test/Procedure	Purpose
Physical Examination	Assess the size, location, and characteristics of the hernia
Ultrasound	Visualize the hernia and surrounding tissues
CT Scan	Provide detailed images of the hernia and internal structures
MRI	Evaluate the extent of the hernia and identify potential complications
Herniography	Inject a contrast dye to highlight the hernia and its contents

Treatment Methods by Hernia Specialist in Mumbai : Dr Pradeep Shriyan

The treatment approach for a hernia depends on various factors, including the type and severity of the hernia, the presence of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health condition.

Watchful Waiting: For small, asymptomatic hernias, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring and avoiding activities that could cause the hernia to become more prominent or painful.
Lifestyle Changes: Losing weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and using proper lifting techniques can help relieve pressure on the affected area and prevent the hernia from worsening.
Surgical Repair: Surgery is often recommended for hernias that are large, painful, or at risk of becoming incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated (cutting off blood supply). The goal of hernia repair surgery is to push the protruding tissue back into place and reinforce the weakened area with mesh or sutures.

When is Surgical Repair Recommended?

Incarcerated or Strangulated Hernia

If the protruding tissue becomes trapped (incarcerated) or has its blood supply cut off (strangulated), immediate surgery is necessary to prevent serious complications, such as tissue damage or bowel obstruction.

Large or Rapidly Growing Hernia

Hernias that are large or growing rapidly are more likely to become incarcerated or strangulated, increasing the risk of complications. Surgical repair is often recommended in these cases.

Persistent Pain or Discomfort

If a hernia causes significant pain, discomfort, or interferes with daily activities, surgical repair may be the best option to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Increased Risk of Complications

Certain factors, such as obesity, chronic cough, or a physically demanding job, can increase the risk of complications associated with a hernia. In these cases, surgical repair may be recommended to prevent further complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hernia surgery risky?

Hernia repair surgery is generally safe, but like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. These include bleeding, infection, and potential complications related to anaesthesia. However, the risks are typically low, and the benefits of repairing a hernia often outweigh the potential risks.

Can a hernia heal on its own?

In some cases, small hernias may resolve on their own, especially in infants and children. However, most hernias in adults will not heal without surgical repair, and they may continue to grow and become more problematic over time.

What is the recovery time after hernia surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual’s overall health. For open hernia repair, recovery may take 4-6 weeks, while laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery often results in a shorter recovery period of 1-2 weeks.

Types of Hernia Surgeries

Open Hernia Repair: This traditional approach involves making an incision in the affected area to access the hernia and repair the weakened muscle or tissue.
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: This minimally invasive technique uses small incisions and specialized instruments, including a tiny camera, to repair the hernia while minimizing tissue trauma and scarring.
Robotic-Assisted Hernia Repair: An advanced robotic surgical system provides enhanced precision, dexterity, and visualization during the procedure, often resulting in faster recovery times and improved outcomes.

Cost and Insurance Information

The cost of hernia repair surgery can vary depending on factors such as the type of procedure, hospital and insurance coverage. Approximately cost in Mumbai for Hernia Surgery is ₹ 50K – 1.5L

Contact Us

Seeking prompt health advice for Hernia not just for symptom relief but also for screening associated problems.

If you are near Mumbai, you can Senior Laparoscopic Hernia Specialist in Mumbai – Dr Pradeep Shriyan

Don’t ignore the troublesome symptoms of Hernia. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment of hernias are crucial for preventing potential complications and ensuring a successful outcome.

Contact a General Surgeon in your nearest area if you notice any related symptoms or persistent changes of Hernia Symptoms