Treatment FAQ

options for herina treatment when too large for the surgury

by Felix Langosh Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Medication

A laparoscopic approach, via transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair (TAPP) or totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair, can be attempted to make use of the advantages of minimally invasive surgery.

Procedures

Easily reducible hernia: They are easily reducible because the hernia contents can easily be returned to their original compartment providing symptom relief and may prevent future complications to some extent. Incarcerated hernia: This cannot be reduced easily because its contents are trapped (incarcerated) in the abdominal wall.

Self-care

As a result of these risks and challenges, many surgeons don’t operate on people with large hernias. “Basically, these are patients who have been turned down by pretty much every surgeon,” said Carlos Ortiz-Ortiz, MD, director of AdventHealth’s Minimally Invasive General and Abdominal Wall Repair Program.

Nutrition

Hernia Treatment Options 1 What to Do if Your Hernia Symptoms Are Mild. 2 Hernia Repair Surgery. If your hernia is causing you significant pain or discomfort... 3 Treating a Hiatal Hernia. A hiatal hernia happens when the upper part of your stomach pushes up... 4 Treating an Umbilical Hernia in Children.

What is the best approach to repair inguinal hernia?

What is an easily reducible hernia?

Why don’t surgeons operate on large hernias?

What to do if your hernia symptoms are mild?

Can a very large hernia be repaired?

Large incisional hernias are difficult to repair, especially in elderly patients with thin abdominal walls. Although most such incisional hernias are simply observed, they do not spontaneously resolve. Previously reported procedures are inadequate for repair of all incisional hernias.

What happens if a hernia gets too big?

If a hernia gets too big, it can cause swelling and pain in your abdomen and eventually become irreducible. You'll likely notice quickly if this happens because it tends to cause a lot of discomfort.

What can you do for a large hernia?

Your doctor will discuss your options with you which may include surgery or watchful waiting. Larger hernias, however, or hernias that are causing pain, may require surgical repair to relieve pain as well as to prevent complications. There are two types of surgical hernia repair: open and minimally invasive surgery.

What is the maximum size of hernia?

This can be anywhere from two inches to the entire length of the abdomen. Second, a hernia can be repaired laparoscopically which involves multiple small incisions and a camera to repair the hernia.

What happens if hernia cant be fixed?

As hernias get bigger, they become more susceptible to incarceration and strangulation. The latter usually involves blood being stopped from flowing freely to the tissue, which can lead to tissue death and gangrene.

When can a hernia not be operated?

If your hernia does not bother you, most likely you can wait to have surgery. Your hernia may get worse, but it may not. Over time, hernias tend to get bigger as the muscle wall of the belly gets weaker and more tissue bulges through. In some cases small, painless hernias never need repair.

What is a massive hernia?

Massive ventral hernias are those that have a length or width of at least 15 centimeters (cm) or an overall area of 150 cm2, according to the Journal of American Surgery. They pose a serious surgical risk. The giant hernia fills the abdominal cavity, making it difficult to separate from surrounding organs.

Does the size of a hernia matter?

And bigger hernias are less dangerous than small ones. “The smaller they are the more risk they might be for getting intestines stuck in them,” stated Dr. Dilworth. For hernias, size matters!

How long can you delay hernia surgery?

Many people are able to delay surgery for months or even years. And some people may never need surgery for a small hernia. If the hernia is small and you don't have any symptoms, or if the symptoms don't bother you much, you and your doctor may simply continue to watch for symptoms to occur.

What is considered a large inguinal hernia?

Giant inguinal hernia is more unusual and significantly challenging in terms of surgical management. It is defined as an inguinal hernia that extends below the midpoint of inner thigh when the patient is in standing position.

Can hernia make your stomach big?

While a hernia may start out as a harmless bulge, it can get bigger and start to hurt. In some cases, it can even be life-threatening. So even if it doesn't seem like a big deal, it's best to see your doctor if you have symptoms of a hernia, like a lump or bulge you can't explain.

How big is mesh for hernia repair?

The usual size of the mesh commonly placed for inguinal hernia repair ranges from 3 x 3 inches to 3 x 6 inches (7.5 x 7.5 cm to 7.5 x 15 cm).

What is the device used to repair a hernia?

The abdomen is then inflated with carbon dioxide to provide room for the surgeon to work, and the hernia is repaired with a small, flexible device called a laparoscope. Mesh is sometimes required to secure and reinforce the hernia.

Why do surgeons use mesh?

Mesh is often used to help strengthen the hernia repair and reduce the risk of recurrence. The surgeons of the Comprehensive Hernia Center use specialized mesh that is designed to improve the outcomes of the hernia repair. As each case is different, your surgery may not require the use of mesh.

What is abdominal wall reconstruction?

Abdominal wall reconstruction repairs defects in the abdominal walls while reducing abdominal tension and providing structural support. This may require a component separation to be performed so that the muscle edges of the hernia gap can be brought back together again.

Can you have an open procedure for a hernia?

Open procedures are ideally suited for patients with large or multiple hernias. Patients who have had prior abdominal surgery are also good candidates for open procedures, as scar tissue in the abdomen forms adhesions that can make minimally invasive operations difficult or even dangerous.

What is an open hernia repair?

Open hernia repair is where an incision, or cut, is made in the groin. The hernia “sac” containing the bulging intestine is identified. The surgeon then pushes the hernia back into the abdomen and strengthens the abdominal wall with stitches or synthetic mesh.

What is the instrument used to repair a hernia?

Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) hernia repair uses a laparoscope, a thin, telescope-like instrument that is inserted through a small incision at the umbilicus (belly button).

What is the advantage of robotic surgery?

Robotic surgery also allows the surgeon to easily use stitches to sew tissue and meshes inside the abdomen. Other benefits of robotic hernia surgery are that the patient has tiny scars rather than one large incision scar, and there may be less pain after this surgery compared to open surgery.

How long does it take to recover from a hernia surgery?

Benefits of laparoscopic hernia surgery include three tiny scars rather than one larger incision, less pain after surgery, a quicker return to work and a shorter recovery time (days instead of weeks).

Why is the peritoneum cut?

The peritoneum (the inner lining of the abdomen) is cut to expose the weakness in the abdominal wall. Mesh is placed on the inside to cover the defects in the abdominal wall and strengthen the tissue. After the procedure is completed, the small abdominal incisions are closed with a stitch or two or with surgical tape.

Does laparoscopy surgery hurt?

You will not feel pain during this surgery. The laparoscope is connected to a tiny video camera, smaller than a dime, that projects an "inside view" of your body onto television screens in the operating room.

How to repair a hernia in the abdomen?

For this method, you may be under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Your surgeon will make a large incision in your groin or abdomen, push the hernia back into your abdomen, and repair the weakened muscle where the hernia occurred.

What to do if your hernia is getting worse?

If your hernia is causing you significant pain or discomfort or is getting worse, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair it . The type of surgery your doctor recommends will depend on the exact nature of your hernia and the complexity of the repair.

How long does it take for an umbilical hernia to heal?

Over 90 percent of umbilical hernias heal on their own by age 3 or 4, the Cleveland Clinic notes — so your doctor probably won’t recommend surgery before that time. (6) If needed, surgery to repair an umbilical hernia involves general anesthesia and a small incision at the base of the navel.

How does a laparoscopy work?

Surgical tools are inserted into the other incisions. Laparoscopy can result in quicker healing and less discomfort and scarring than an open hernia repair.

What are the factors that contribute to deciding to watch and wait for hernia surgery?

According to NYU Langone Health, factors that may contribute to deciding to watch and wait include: Being 70 or older. Receiving chemotherapy. Having a stent or pacemaker.

Why do surgeons use mesh?

Your surgeon then places mesh over the weakened area of muscle. Over time, new tissue will grow over the mesh and reinforce your abdominal wall. An advantage of using mesh is that it doesn’t put any strain or pressure on your abdominal wall, which reduces the risk of another hernia developing.

How many incisions are made in an extraperitoneal repair?

In a totally extraperitoneal repair, your surgeon makes three incisions in your abdomen and inserts a balloon that’s inflated to make the area more visible. Tissue is removed from the hernia’s sac, and mesh is placed over the weakened muscle area. The incisions are closed using sutures.

How is a hernia repaired?

In open hernia repair, called a hernioplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in your groin and pushes the protruding tissue back into your abdomen. The surgeon then sews the weakened area, often reinforcing it with a synthetic mesh. Then the opening is closed with stitches, staples or surgical glue. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and sedation, or general anesthesia.

What happens if an inguinal hernia doesn't improve?

The resulting bulge can be painful. And if the inguinal hernia doesn't improve on its own, it can lead to life-threatening complications.

Why is laparoscopic surgery important?

The main advantages of laparoscopic hernia repair are lower risk of infection, less postoperative pain, and quicker return to work or normal activities. These advantages are amplified for patients with hernias on both sides of their abdomens or recurrent inguinal hernias. Laparoscopy allows the surgeon to avoid scar tissue from an earlier hernia ...

What is the procedure called when you have a small incision in your abdomen?

Laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that requires general anesthesia. In this procedure, the surgeon operates through several small incisions in your abdomen. A small tube equipped with a tiny camera, called a laparoscope, is inserted into one incision.

Can an inguinal hernia be pushed back?

They can change in size with activity and usually will pop out during strenuous activity or lifting. These hernias usually can be able pushed back. One must lay down flat to accomplish this. Then inguinal hernias can progress to discomfort, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain.

Can a hernia recur after surgery?

Laparoscopy allows the surgeon to avoid scar tissue from an earlier hernia repair, so it might be a good choice for people whose hernias recur after open hernia surgery. If hernias are left untreated with no symptoms, 75 percent of patients will develop some sort of symptoms in the future.

How to treat a small hernia?

Treatment. If your hernia is small and isn't bothering you, your doctor might recommend watchful waiting. Sometimes, wearing a supportive truss may help relieve symptoms, but check with your doctor first because it's important that the truss fits properly, and is being used appropriately. In children, the doctor might try applying manual pressure ...

How does an open hernia repair work?

In this procedure, which might be done with local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision in your groin and pushes the protruding tissue back into your abdomen. The surgeon then sews the weakened area, often reinforcing it with a synthetic mesh (hernioplasty).

How to diagnose an inguinal hernia?

A physical exam is usually all that's needed to diagnose an inguinal hernia. Your doctor will check for a bulge in the groin area. Because standing and coughing can make a hernia more prominent, you'll likely be asked to stand and cough or strain.

How does a hernia surgery work?

The surgeon may use laparoscopic or robotic instruments to repair your hernia. Gas is used to inflate your abdomen to make the internal organs easier to see.

Can a hernia recur after surgery?

Minimally invasive hernia surgery allows the surgeon to avoid scar tissue from an earlier hernia repair, so it might be a good choice for people whose hernias recur after open hernia surgery. It also might be a good choice for people with hernias on both sides of the body (bilateral).

Why was an operation suggested for the giant inguinoscrotal hernia?

An operation was suggested, since the giant inguinoscrotal hernia impaired his quality of life. The patient was married and was employed as freight worker when developing his medical condition. The entity notably limited his sexual activity.

What is an inguinoscrotal hernia?

An inguinoscrotal hernia is defined as “giant” if descending below the midpoint of the inner thigh of a patient in upright position. In developed countries this is a rare entity. In the literature different surgical techniques have been reported so far to achieve a successful treatment.

Why is an orchiectomy necessary?

Often, orchiectomy becomes necessary when removing the hernial sac because of adhesions, which are frequently observed in patients with a longer history of a giant inguinoscrotal hernia. Another reason for orchiectomy is the possible development of orchitis after an extended dissection of the spermatic cord.

Is a giant inguinoscrotal hernia rare?

Giant inguinoscrotal hernias represent a rare entity in developed countries. Different approaches are possible. Open abdominal and inguinal approaches are commonly used, if necessary in combination. According to the outer circumstances, ranging from high-end surgery in developed countries to surgery with limited resources in less developed countries, the surgical therapy has to be adapted to achieve the optimal result for the individual patient.

What is the procedure to repair a giant abdominal wall?

Abdominal surgery is required to repair a giant abdominal wall using a combination of complex mesh repair and/or utilizing a "components separation" procedure.

What is a giant abdominal wall hernia?

A giant abdominal wall hernia can develop from an existing ventral or incisional hernia, sometimes arising after one or more failed repair attempts. These hernias may also result from a traumatic injury where the abdomen was required to be left open and healing was delayed. In giant abdominal wall hernias, multiple loops of intestines and sometimes other abdominal organs reside within the hernia sac. The abdominal wall muscles then become conditioned to this and retract reducing the available space inside the abdomen.

How much weight can you lift after a syringe?

Postoperative Restrictions. After surgery, most patients will be asked to avoid lifting anything heavier than 15 pounds for the first two weeks, though more complicated patients may have differing limitations.

Do you need a second follow up appointment for a surgical drain?

Patients with more complex procedures may have complex bandages or negative pressure dressings that need evaluation, and we need to ensure that any surgical drains are performing properly to avoid infection. Depending on the patient’s progress, a second follow-up appointment may be necessary.

Can a hernia recur after surgery?

However, there is still a chance of recurrence or infection after surgery. Obesity and smoking increase these risks substantially, and many hernia experts will require patients to lose weight and commit to smoking cessation before surgery, unless tissue is incarcerated or strangulated.

Can you go home after minimally invasive surgery?

Patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery are usually able to go home the same day and are able to walk the night of the surgery. Some patients, especially those who have had abdominal wall reconstructions or component separations, may have to stay in the hospital for a few days.

Does surgery help with pain?

Chronic pain is also a risk. Although most pain will go away with conservative management, in rare cases, further surgery may be necessary to alleviate the pain. A healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and regular checkups with your primary care provider will also help reduce the risks involved with any surgery.

How to treat a hernia without surgery?

Non-surgical approaches such as wearing a corset, binder, or truss may exert gentle pressure on the hernia and keep it in place. These methods may ease the pain or discomfort and may be used if you are not fit for the surgery or awaiting surgery. They can provide temporary relief, but surgery is the only definitive treatment for a hernia.

Why do hernias shrink?

Some hernias reduce on their own because of cold compress application, gravitational force, and muscle relaxation around the hernia from sedation and painkillers. The doctor slowly applies pressure to the lower part of the hernia while guiding the upper portion into the abdomen through the defect.

How long does it take to recover from a laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery?

Most people can return to normal activities in two weeks, but may need to avoid heavy lifting.

What is an incisional hernia?

An incisional hernia is a type of hernia caused by an incompletely healed surgical wound. In an incisional hernia, the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall from the site of previous abdominal surgery. Incision hernia is mostly seen in elderly or overweight people who are inactive after abdominal surgery.

What is the name of the protrusion of the intestine?

A hernia is a protrusion of an internal body part, such as the intestine, through a weak spot in the muscle or the surrounding tissue wall. An umbilical hernia repair is a corrective surgery for a hernia in the navel (umbilicus) region.

How do you know if you have a hernia?

Symptoms of a hernia include pain, nausea, vomiting, bowel obstruction, and fever. Hernias are diagnosed by a physical exam and imaging tests. Some hernias may be held in place with a supportive belt.

What is a hernia in the body?

A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or a part of an organ because of a defect or weakness in the soft tissue wall that encloses it. Surgery is the only definitive way to treat a hernia. Depending on whether they develop in the upper abdomen or groin, hernias may be broadly divided into two main groups, and each group contains multiple types:

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