500,000 American men will need surgical repair of hernias this year
Inguinal hernias (also called groin hernias), the most common type of hernia, can develop when soft tissue — occasionally part of the intestine — protrudes through a weak point or tear in the lower abdominal wall. Occurring 10 times more frequently in males than females, this visible protrusion does not always require surgery but should be evaluated by an experienced surgeon, even if the patient is pain free. Why? Many enlarged hernias require surgical repair to prevent more serious complications such as when a loop of intestine becomes trapped in the weak point in the abdominal wall (incarcerated hernia). This condition can obstruct the bowel which prevents bowel movements and results in severe pain, nausea and vomiting. If a condition called strangulation develops, where blood flow is restricted to the trapped portion of the intestine, this is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate surgery.
Thankfully, today’s hernia surgery has improved dramatically versus what your father may have experienced —a large abdominal incision, lengthy hospital stay and weeks of immobility. Instead, many inguinal hernias can now be successfully repaired with laparoscopic hernia surgery, a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses only small incisions, leading to a faster, less painful recovery. To visualize how the surgeon repairs the hernia, imagine patching a bicycle tire. As a surgeon, I insert a piece of synthetic mesh to cover the entire inguinal area, including all potential hernia openings. The patch is secured with sutures, clips or staples. Click here, click on “Hernia” to view my video discussion of this procedure.
While hernia surgery can also performed conventionally, with a single long incision over the hernia, the laparoscopic alternative offers several advantages including less discomfort and scarring after surgery and a quicker return to normal activities. Often, patients are back to work a few days later. Keep in mind, not all patients with inguinal hernias are suitable candidates for laparoscopic hernia repair. If your hernia is large, the intestine is pushed down into the scrotum, or you’ve had previous pelvic surgery such as a prostatectomy, traditional open surgery may be the more appropriate choice for optimal success.
Most importantly, prior to undergoing a surgical hernia repair or any type of surgery, talk with the surgeon who will be performing the procedure and ensure that he or she is a board-certified surgeon with extensive clinical experience, training and expertise to perform that type of procedure. Once confirmed, rest assured you are in competent hands and focus on getting back on your feet as quickly as possible.
Dr. Seun Sowemino
Prime Surgicare
(732) 637 - 6370
November 4, 2010
