How Are Hernias Diagnosed?
Hernias are diagnosed through a combination of diagnostic procedures, including:
- Medical History – This could include questions about the patient’s symptoms, past medical conditions, lifestyle, and any relevant factors that might contribute to the development of a hernia.
- Physical Examination – The patient will be asked to cough while the doctor examines the affected area. This helps the doctor to gather information about the size, location, and characteristics of the hernia.
- Imaging Tests – If symptoms are suggestive of a possible hernia but the bulge is small and cannot be confirmed by a physical examination, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be recommended. These tests provide detailed visual information on the presence, type, and size of the hernia.
Why Is Hernia Treatment Necessary?
Most types of hernias do not resolve on their own as it is a structural defect. When left untreated, hernias can grow bigger and develop serious complications, where the organ can get trapped in the cavity (obstruction) or have its blood supply cut off (strangulation).
Dr Wong Jen San has performed many hernia repair surgeries with quality outcomes for over 15 years. For a surgical care plan with minimal risks and prompt recovery, reach out to our surgeon today.
How Is a Hernia Treated?
The type of hernia surgery required depends on the size and location of the hernia. Hernia surgery will be performed under general anaesthesia.
Open Hernia Surgery
Two main types of surgical techniques commonly used for open hernia repair:
Herniorrhaphy
– The surgeon will make a single 4 to 5-cm incision at the hernia site. The displaced organ will be gently pushed back to its rightful place. After that, the surgeon will suture the edges of the weakened muscle or tissue together to reinforce the area and prevent the hernia from recurring.Hernioplasty
– This surgical technique follows the same procedure as herniorrhaphy. However, it uses a piece of synthetic mesh to reinforce the weakened or damaged area. The mesh can be placed either over the hernia site or beneath it, just between the muscle layers, to provide support to the weakened tissue.
Compared to open surgery, three keyhole incisions are made instead of a single incision to assess the herniated area. A laparoscope with an attached camera is inserted through one of the incisions for the surgeon to visualise the abdominal cavities. Special surgical tools are inserted through the other incisions for the surgeon to put the displaced organ back in place, and a surgical mesh is used to strengthen the muscle wall.
While laparoscopic hernia surgery can result in less scarring and post-operative pain, not all hernias are suitable for a minimally invasive approach. An experienced hernia surgeon will be able to recommend the ideal surgical approach for effective treatment and recovery.
What To Expect After Hernia Surgery?
Following a hernia repair, some patients may be asked to wear an abdominal binder or bandage to provide additional support.
Pain and swelling around the surgical site are expected for the first few days. With adequate rest and medication, post-operative pain will typically resolve within a week.
Refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery to avoid recurrence of your hernia.