5 Min Read
Ventral hernias are a highly prevalent condition, with primary ventral hernias developing in 20% of adults.1. If you have recently undergone Ventral Hernia Repair Surgery, it is understandable that you are struggling with pain and discomfort. However, successful outcomes and the prevention of hernia recurrence are only possible by following post-recovery instructions. In this blog post, we will guide you on smooth tips to recovery following Ventral Hernia Repair.
Synopsis
What Is a Ventral Hernia?
A ventral hernia is a medical condition where the intestines or other tissues protrude from the weak spot in the abdominal wall. Most ventral hernias are often asymptomatic, and you can live with one for years. Sometimes, they cause pain, discomfort, or potential complications such as intestinal blockage or tissue death if left untreated.
Ventral hernias do not resolve by themselves and may worsen over time with strenuous activity or the natural weakening of muscles with age. It becomes important to treat ventral hernia early to prevent complications and emergencies like strangulated hernia.
What Are Ventral Hernia Types?
There are three ventral hernia types:
-
Umbilical hernia: This type develops on the belly button and is common among infants. It can also occur in adults, especially women who are pregnant or have given birth to a child
-
Epigastric hernia: They develop between the belly button and chest
-
Incisional hernia: This occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision
Techniques for Ventral Hernia Repair
A ventral hernia does not go away with medical treatment and requires a surgical approach. Depending on the size and complexity, various methods of surgical repairs are employed to repair ventral hernia. Commonly performed ventral hernia operations are:
-
Open Hernia Repair Surgery: This procedure involves making a large incision to directly access and repair the hernia. Although this technique is not ideal for quick recovery, this technique may be necessary in emergencies or complex cases
-
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Surgery: It uses smaller incisions and a camera to repair the hernia
-
Robotic Surgery: Similar to laparoscopy, specialised tools and high-definition vision systems are used to improve surgical precision
A synthetic mesh may be used to reinforce the abdominal wall during laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery to prevent hernia recurrence.
Is Ventral Hernia Repair Surgery a Major Surgical Procedure?
All surgical procedures carry some risks. While small ventral hernias can be repaired on an outpatient basis, a larger or more complicated hernia requires a prolonged hospital stay. Most patients require 2 to 4 days of hospitalisation following the procedure.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Ventral Hernia Repair
Following the doctor’s instructions is crucial to ensure successful outcomes after Ventral Hernia Repair.
-
Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Your surgeon will recommend specific instructions tailored to your condition. This may include instructions for activity levels, dietary modifications, and wound care. Following the instructions is crucial to promoting healing and preventing complications.
-
Pain management: You will be prescribed pain medications to help manage pain and discomfort. Take them as directed. Wear an abdominal binder for the first 6 weeks after surgery to prevent back pain. If you experience severe or persistent pain, call your doctor immediately.
-
Activity level: Rest adequately to ease back into daily routines to support a smooth recovery process. While resting, gentle movements such as short walks and gradually increasing your activity level can be beneficial. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting following surgery to facilitate the healing of abdominal muscles and prevent complications.
-
Diet plan: Maintain a balanced diet to promote healing and strengthen tissues. Make sure to consume adequate proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support healing. Avoid overeating or foods that can stress your digestive system. Also, make sure to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.
-
Wound care: A drain and staples may be placed in the operated area. Follow proper wound care instructions to promote healing. Avoid soaking in baths or swimming until your incisions are fully healed, and use gentle soap and water to clean the area.
-
Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and participating in gentle physical exercises is recommended by the healthcare practitioner.
-
Monitor for complications: Complications may arise after Ventral Hernia Repair surgery; therefore, be vigilant of signs of infections or other issues.
-
Follow-up appointments: Attending regular follow-ups is crucial for ensuring appropriate healing and preventing post-complication issues.
The recovery time from Hernia Repair Surgery varies depending on individual factors and complications. An individual recovering from a large or recurrent ventral hernia should avoid significant stress on the abdominal wall for several months.
FAQ's
A ventral hernia can turn serious if left untreated, leading to complications like bowel obstruction and strangulation. Seeking prompt treatment is crucial to prevent these risks.
Ventral hernia can worsen with increased abdominal pressure from activities such as coughing, straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting, ageing, obesity, pregnancy, or previous abdominal surgery.
A ventral hernia can be easily diagnosed by the physician by analysing the clinical symptoms and physical examination. An ultrasound or CT scan can also aid in determining the size of the hernia as well as the dimensions and characteristics of the surrounding tissues.
Most patients experience pain and discomfort for a few days after surgery. Recovery time can vary for each individual based on their health status or associated complications. Most patients can resume their normal routines within a few weeks or months following surgery.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, contact our GI Surgery Department or visit our website.
Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/mukundapur/specialities/gi-surgery/
Contact no: 033 6907 0001
Share this article on:
