Hernia Treatment in Delhi, India

There are several types of hernias, including:

1. Inguinal Hernias: These are the most common types occurring in the groin area. Inguinal hernias can be of two types:

   • Direct Inguinal Hernia: Caused by weakness in the floor of the inguinal canal and often seen in elderly individuals with chronic conditions that increase intra-abdominal pressure.

   • Indirect Inguinal Hernia: Occurs when the inguinal canal fails to close before birth, resulting in a hernia appearing in a male's scrotum or a female's vaginal opening. Indirect hernias are more common in males.

2. Femoral Hernia: These hernias occur below the groin crease and are more prevalent in women. They are associated with weakness in the lower groin region, often due to pregnancy and childbirth.

3. Umbilical Hernia: This type of hernia develops when part of the intestine protrudes through the umbilical opening in the abdominal muscles. It can occur in infants shortly after birth and may resolve by three or four years of age.

4. Hiatus Hernia: This occurs when part of the stomach protrudes into the chest through the diaphragm. Treatment may not be necessary if the patient is symptomless.

Other types of hernia include Incisional Hernia, Epigastric Hernia, Spigelian Hernia, and Muscle hernia.

Some common signs include:

• Noticeable bulge or protrusion that appears when standing or straining and disappears when lying down

• Increased bulge while coughing or sneezing

• Pain experienced while lifting weights

• Dull aching sensation

• A vague feeling of fullness

• Nausea and constipation

• Swelling and pain in the testicles (in the case of inguinal hernias)

• Heartburn

• Difficulty swallowing

The exact aetiology of a hernia is often unknown, but the following factors can contribute to its development. These include:

• Chronic constipation

• Chronic cough

• Cystic fibrosis

• Excess weight or obesity

• Heavy lifting

• Straining during bowel movements

• Poor nutrition

• Smoking

• Overexertion

• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen

• Undescended testicles

• Previous abdominal surgeries (Ventral/Incisional Hernia)

A hernia is typically diagnosed through a physical examination. The patient may be asked to cough or strain to observe any bulges or protrusions. Ultrasound or CT scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Surgery is the primary treatment option for hernias. If left untreated, a hernia can increase in size and may lead to intestinal obstruction or strangulation. There are three types of hernia surgery:

• Open Surgery: It involves making a large incision to access the hernia, placing the protruded tissue back into place, and using stitches to close the weakened area. In some cases, a non-absorbable mesh may be used to reinforce the weakened spot.

• Laparoscopic Surgery (Keyhole Surgery): This is a minimally invasive procedure where a laparoscope is inserted through small incisions to view the internal organs. Fewer stitches are required, and the recovery time is usually faster compared to open surgery.

• Robotic Surgery: This advanced form of surgery involves using robots to perform the procedure with high precision and accuracy. Robotic surgery provides a 3D view of the structures inside the abdomen, enhancing surgical outcomes.

Before undergoing hernia surgery, the following instructions may be provided:

• Vital tests may be required to evaluate the patient's overall health condition.

• Follow the surgeon's instructions regarding any prescribed medications.

• Avoid consuming alcohol and tobacco for a few days before the procedure.

• The patient should not eat or drink anything after midnight, except for necessary medications, on the day before the surgery.

After hernia surgery, the patient should adhere to the following instructions:

• The patient will be observed for a few hours and then moved to a room.

• Oral liquids can be sipped on the same day of surgery, and regular meals can be resumed the next morning.

• The patient can move and use the restroom independently on the same day of surgery.

• The patient's discharge may occur on the same day or the next day after inguinal hernia surgery.

• Dressings will be removed during the first follow-up visit, which usually takes place after five days.

• Follow the diet instructions provided by the doctor carefully.

• Take prescribed medications as directed.

The recovery period after hernia surgery can range from 2-4 weeks, depending on the surgical approach and the individual's healing response.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent hernias or their recurrence, the following measures may help reduce the risk:

• Consume a fibre-rich diet to prevent constipation

• Avoid smoking, as it can cause persistent coughing and increased abdominal pressure, which can contribute to hernias

• Avoid lifting weights beyond the recommended limit for your body weight

• Maintain a healthy weight

Book your appointment today with a hernia specialist doctor at Max Hospitals, the best hospital for hernia surgery in Delhi, India.

Reviewed by Dr. Pradeep Chowbey, Chairman - Max Institute of Laparoscopic, Endoscopic, Bariatric Surgery & Allied Surgical Specialities, Laparoscopic / Minimal Access Surgery, Bariatric Surgery / Metabolic, Institute of Laparoscopic, Endoscopic & Bariatric Surgery, Robotic Surgery on 08-Aug-2023.

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What is a hernia, and how is it caused?
A hernia is a condition where an organ or tissue protrudes through an opening in the surrounding muscle or tissue. It is caused by weakened muscles or tissues.

What are the different types of hernias?
The most common types of hernias are inguinal, femoral, umbilical, and incisional.

What are the symptoms of a hernia?
Some common symptoms of a hernia include a visible bulge or lump, pain or discomfort, and a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the affected area.

Can a hernia be dangerous?
A hernia can be dangerous if left untreated, as it can lead to complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation, which can cause tissue death.

What is hernia surgery?
Hernia surgery is a procedure to repair the weakened area in the abdominal wall that is causing the hernia.

What are different types of hernia surgery?
The most common types of hernia surgery are open hernia repair, laparoscopic hernia repair & robotic-assisted surgery.

How is open hernia repair performed?
Open hernia repair involves making incisions in the affected area and repairing the hernia using sutures or mesh.

How is laparoscopic/robotic hernia repair performed?
Laparoscopic hernia repair involves making several tiny incisions in the abdomen and repairing the hernia with a laparoscope and small instruments.

Which type of hernia surgery is better?
The choice of hernia surgery depends on the type and severity of the hernia, as well as the patient's overall health and medical history. Both types of surgery have their advantages and disadvantages.

How long does it take to recover from hernia surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual patient, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks.

Can a hernia recur after surgery?
There is a risk of hernia recurrence after surgery, but it can be minimized by following the surgeon's post-operative instructions and avoiding activities that put pressure on the area.

Can a hernia be treated without surgery?
A hernia cannot be treated without surgery.

What is a hernia truss?
A hernia truss is a supportive device that helps to hold a hernia in place and prevent it from protruding. But it can be dangerous to wear it for a long time & is no longer considered as an ideal treatment for hernia.

Can a hernia truss be used instead of surgery?
A hernia truss can provide temporary relief, but it is not a permanent solution and should not be used as a substitute for surgery.

Can a hernia be caused by heavy lifting?
Heavy lifting can contribute to the development of a hernia by putting stress on the abdominal muscles and tissues.

How can a hernia be prevented?
To prevent a hernia, it is important to maintain a healthy weight, avoid heavy lifting, and practice good posture and body mechanics.

Can a hernia be caused by pregnancy?
Pregnancy can increase the risk of developing a hernia, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the abdominal muscles and tissues.

How long will it take me to recover from hernia surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery you have had and how quickly your body heals. Most people can return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks after laparoscopic surgery and within 4-6 weeks after open surgery.

What should I do if I experience complications after hernia surgery?
If you experience any complications after hernia surgery, like persistent pain or swelling, fever, chills, or drainage from the incision site, contact your surgeon immediately. It may be necessary to undergo further testing or treatment.

What are the risks of hernia surgery?
Hernia surgery carries risks like infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. In addition, specific risks associated with hernia surgery include injury to nearby organs, nerve damage, and hernia recurrence.

Can I develop a hernia after hernia surgery?
Yes, this is known as a recurrent hernia.

Can hernia surgery cause erectile dysfunction?
It is very unlikely a hernia surgery can cause erectile dysfunction.

Review

FAQs reviewed by Dr. Vishwas Sharma Director, Laparoscopic / Minimal Access Surgery, General Surgery, Department of General Surgery and Robotics.