Abdominal hernia

What does the treatment look like?

An abdominal hernia is characterized by a protrusion of the peritoneum, where organs-most often the intestines-are displaced beyond the limits of the abdominal cavity. The causes of this can be congenital or acquired, which occur as a result of weakening or mechanical damage to the abdominal tissue, which occurs most often after previous surgeries, injuries caused, for example, by lifting weights, after pregnancy, childbirth, in obese and elderly people.

Abdominal hernia surgery is performed under general anesthesia. It involves making an incision through which the surgeon enters the abdominal cavity, separates the hernia sac or incises it, in order to free the organs. Then the shells of healthy tissues inside the abdominal cavity are properly sutured, after which they are further reinforced with a special mesh, which significantly reduces the risk of recurrence. If the tissue dissection is very extensive, then no suturing of the tissues is used, and only a mesh is implanted. The final stage of the operation is precise suturing of the subcutaneous tissue and skin, followed by the application of a dressing.

How to prepare for the procedure?

Abdominal hernia surgery is carried out after an initial consultation and a number of necessary tests. A week before the operation, anticoagulants and some painkillers should be discontinued - detailed recommendations will be given by the specialist.

What to do after the procedure?

The recovery time after abdominal hernia surgery depends on the individual circumstances of each patient. It usually takes about 2 months, but complete healing may take up to six months. During the first two weeks, strenuous physical activity should be avoided at all costs. After this time, walking can be resumed, and after about 3 months, training and exercise can be resumed. The patient should also follow a diet that prevents constipation, i.e., one rich in fiber, and avoid fatty and hard-to-digest foods, spicy seasonings, and alcohol. A follow-up visit is also recommended.

What are the contraindications to the procedure?

While abdominal hernia surgery in adults is a necessity, there are also some contraindications to it, among which we mention:

• Inflammation of the skin or subcutaneous tissue;
• ischemic heart disease;
• cardiac arrhythmia;
• hypertension;
• circulatory insufficiency;
• anemia;
• diabetes;
• pregnancy.