HERNIA REPAIR, INGUINAL-

General Information

DEFINITION--Closing or repairing an inguinal hernia, an internal defect or weakness in the muscular layer of the abdominal wall. Sometimes an intestine protrudes through the hernia defect, causing a noticeable bulge. If the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia defect, it is called an incarcerated hernia. If the hernia defect blocks the intestine's blood supply, it is called a strangulated hernia.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Groin muscles and ligaments inside the lower abdomen next to the genitals; abdominal muscles.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Incarcerated hernia. This is a medical emergency.
• Strangulated hernia. This is a medical emergency.
• Uncomplicated hernia. Most doctors recommend operating on a hernia even if no hernia symptoms are present in order to prevent the serious complications of incarceration or strangulation.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Family history of hernias.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Chronic lung disease, prostatism or constipation.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Blood studies, if bleeding was significant during surgery.

ANESTHESIA

• Spinal anesthesia by injection.
• Local anesthesia by injection.
• General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• There are various techniques for performing this surgery.
• An incision is made in the abdomen. The abdominal muscles are separated, and the peritoneal cavity is opened.
• The hernia is located and repaired or closed. The skin is closed with sutures or staples, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Recurrent hernia.
• Excessive bleeding.
• Urinary retention.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Damage to the testicle's blood supply or nerve supply.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 4 days depending on age.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Curable in most patients, no matter what age. Male virility should not be affected. Allow about 6 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.
• 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.

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

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Resume driving and sexual relations after your doctor determines healing is complete.

DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract begins to function again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing. It should be high in fiber and fluids to prevent constipation.

Call Your Doctor If

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

• A bulge appears in the groin, scrotum, vaginal lips or surgical area.
• You become constipated or have difficulty in urinating.