Surgery Hernia
What is Hernia Surgery?
A hernia occurs when fat or part of the bowel pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall, causing a bulge that you can often see or feel. Hernia surgery, or hernia repair, is the operation that remove the hernia.
Inguinal and femoral hernias in the groin, umbilical hernias at the belly button, and incisional hernias through the scar of a previous operation are all repaired by easing the contents back into place and reinforcing the weak area, usually with a mesh.
About Hernia Surgery
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Before: Most hernia repairs are performed under general anaesthetic, so you will fast beforehand. Dr Salter and your Anaesthetist will see you before you go into surgery.
During: You will be asleep. The operation usually takes about two hours, and you will wake in the recovery room.
After: Expect some pain and bruising around the wound, which is normal and should settle over a couple of weeks. Dr Salter will call your next of kin once you are out of surgery and will review you before you go home. Your GP has a letter from Dr Salter when you leave hospital.
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Most hernia repairs require a stay of one night in hospital. Desk work is usually possible within two weeks, and physical work takes longer. You can drive generally after a week and when you can use the brake comfortably as well as reduced the use of strong pain relief medications. Avoid heavy lifting for about six weeks. These are typical timeframes and Dr Salter will advise you further.
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Dr Salter’s rooms will send you what you need to know beforehand, including fasting times, medications and what to bring. The full checklist is on the Patient Information page. Call the rooms if anything is unclear.