A hernia occurs when the tissue or an organ of your body starts protruding through the wall of a muscle or tissue containing it. The most common area where a hernia occurs is the abdomen. There may be instances where your hernia may become painful and get in the way of your daily routine. In this scenario, it would be safe to opt for hernia surgery in Singapore. 

A hernia surgery tends to push back the protruding tissue or organ, thereby repairing the opening or weak spot of your muscle wall. Here’s everything to know about hernia surgery. 

When do I Need a Hernia Surgery? 

If you experience sudden and excruciating pain or tenderness in the bulge that protrudes from any organ of your body, it is a sign you may need to undergo surgery to treat the problem. This situation becomes life-threatening and calls for immediate surgery. Other cases where you may need a hernia surgery include the following. 

• A bulge that doesn’t go back inside the abdomen or any other part where hernia has developed. 

• A bulge that becomes larger with time. 

• Constant bloating and fever. 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Redness where your hernia is. 

What are the Different Types of Hernia Surgery? 

Upon experiencing the above-listed symptoms, you can talk to your doctor. Based on the urgency of your condition, they will operate you as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the hernia, they will choose from the following types of surgery. 

Open Hernia Repair Surgery 

Under this, a surgeon makes a small incision, allowing them to operate the herniated area. The organs and tissues are put back in place using surgical instruments and stitched together. The surgeon also uses a surgical mesh to reinforce the tissue. 

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Surgery 

Also known as a keyhole surgery, this type of operation involves making 3-4 tiny cuts into your body to operate. The surgeon inserts a thin tube with a tiny video camera that screens the images of your internal organs. Using surgical instruments, they repair the hernia. 

Robotic Hernia Repair Surgery 

It is a prevalent hernia surgery in Singapore that uses robotic surgical instruments to operate. The surgeon works at a console driving the robotic technology to repair the weakened tissues or muscles that have led to hernia. 

Do All Hernias Require Surgery? 

In some cases, hernias heal on their own, and the swelling or bulge around your organ starts reducing after a certain point. However, not all cases are the same. Your hernia might not get better on its own and remain untreated for long. It may give rise to certain complications that may become serious over time. 

It is vital to mention that all hernias do not require immediate surgery. If your symptoms are minor, you can wait for some time. But if your hernia starts getting bigger, it may require surgical intervention. 

What Happens During the Surgery? 

Here’s how the surgeon performs hernia surgery. 

• You will be given medications to prevent pain and also need general anaesthesia to put you to sleep during your surgery. If you are opting for an open surgery, you may only require local anaesthesia. 

• The surgeon makes a small cut for open surgery and several cuts for laparoscopic surgery. 

• They will locate the hernia and position the tissue back into place. 

• The weakened surrounding tissues will be sutured with healthy tissues to create a strong barrier wall so the problem doesn’t recur. 

• Lastly, the wounds will be dressed. 

Hernia surgery takes about 30 minutes to complete. If the condition is more complex, it may take more time, up to 5 hours. Compared to others, robotic surgery is the longest. 

What Happens After the Surgery? 

Most hernia surgeries are outpatient. You would not be required to stay in the hospital for more than a day. Most of the time, the surgeon will let you go home on the same day of the surgery. You will wake up in a recovery room. The doctor will monitor your vitals from time to time. We advise you not to drive immediately after your surgery and rest enough. Do not indulge in any physical activity like running, swimming, cycling, or working out at the gym immediately after hernia surgery. 

Are There Any Complications of a Hernia Surgery? 

Similar to all surgeries, Hernia surgery involves risks and complications. Some people are more likely to experience discomfort shortly after surgery. Others show up in the long term. The complications include the following.

• Infection at the site of the incision. 

• Collection of the fluid or Seromas.

• Collection of the blood or Hematomas. 

• Injuries at the nearby tissues, organs, or blood vessels. 

• Problems with emptying your bladder.

Takeaway 

If your hernia shows extreme symptoms, it is vital not to delay scheduling the appointment with the surgeon as it may lead to further complications. Talk to your doctor and discuss the pros and cons. Pay attention to the aftercare of the surgery for better and quick recovery. Good luck.