A hernia happens when an organ pokes through the muscle wall of the abdomen or groin. This usually occurs in the groin area because it has less muscle tissue. The pain from a hernia can vary depending on its location and size.
Hernias often result from the weakening of connective tissues due to aging. Other factors like obesity, heavy lifting, or bodybuilding can also contribute. Initially, you might feel discomfort, then notice swelling or bulging, which can get worse over time if not treated.
So, how do you fix a hernia? This post will explain three types of hernia surgery and the pros and cons of each.
Laparoscopic surgery involves making a few small cuts in the abdomen and inserting instruments through them. Surgeons can then see inside your body on a video screen, which helps avoid large scars and bigger incisions. This method generally causes less pain and allows for quicker healing.
Laparoscopic surgery is typically used for hernias on the front side of the abdomen (inguinal hernia). If you think you have an inguinal hernia, it’s best to visit a gastroenterologist. The surgery usually takes one to two hours, and you can return to work in a few days, with full recovery in a couple of weeks.
Robotic surgery is another option, often recommended for hernias that are hard to reach with laparoscopic surgery. This method requires one small incision and uses a tiny camera and tools to perform the operation. It provides better visualization and causes smaller scars compared to open surgery.
Robotic surgery is usually used for hernias deep on the side of the abdomen (femoral hernia). However, recent research shows it can also treat inguinal hernias. Recovery usually takes about six weeks, but it’s often less painful and results in smaller scars compared to open surgery.
Open surgery involves a larger cut in the abdomen to fix the hernia. This means larger scars, more blood loss, and longer recovery times. It’s typically used for people who can’t have other types of surgery or have larger hernias that need this approach.
Open surgery carries more risks, like infections and other complications but is the only method to repair hernias deep inside the body.
If you’ve injured yourself while exercising, talk to your doctor about these treatment options. The best approach depends on the severity of your hernia, its location, and your health history.
