HERNIA REPAIR, INCISIONAL-

General Information

DEFINITION--Reinsertion of the intestine in the abdominal cavity. Sometimes, the intestine protrudes through a weak area in the abdomen, especially around a previously repaired hernia or abdominal incision. This protrusion causes a noticeable bulge. Surgery reinserts the intestine in its proper place.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Abdomen and intestines, especially where previous surgery has been performed.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Possible blockage of blood vessels in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Painful lump in the abdomen.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Use of drugs such as cortisone, diuretics or antihypertensives.
• Recent illness, especially respiratory illness or chronic cough.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Outpatient surgical facility or hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays of the abdomen.
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA--Local or spinal anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the abdomen (at the old scar if one exists). The abdominal muscles are examined for the protruding intestine.
• The intestine is replaced in the abdominal cavity. Frequently, plastic mesh is used to strengthen the repair. The abdominal wall is reconstructed to prevent further protrusion.
• A drain is usually left in place.
• The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Surgical-wound infection.
• Inadvertent injury to intestinal tract.
• Recurrent hernia (rare).

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 4 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Curable in most patients, no matter what age. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• A hard ridge should form along the incision. As it heals, the ridge will recede gradually.
• Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.
• Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Resume sexual relations when your doctor determines healing is complete.
• Resume driving when your doctor determines healing is complete.
• Avoid heavy lifting for 6 weeks after surgery. Learn proper body mechanics to reduce strain contributing to recurrence after recovery.
• Don't strain with bowel movements or urination.

DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract begins to function again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding occurs in the surgical area.

• Your temperature rises to 101F (38.3C).
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You become constipated.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.