LAPAROSCOPIC INCISIONAL HERNIA REPAIR
An incisional hernia is a bulge that develops at the site of a previous surgical scar. The scar which develops is weak due to technical reasons or to poor healing. The bulge will contain abdominal contents. The opening tends to be large and strangulation is not common.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS.
- There is a bulge at the incision site which starts small and gradually enlarges.
- The tendency is to relentlessly enlarge and become more pendulous.
- This causes discomfort and poorer quality of life.
TREATMENT
- These hernias may be treated conservatively with a corset support
- Quality of life is poor and the hernia unsightly leading to request for repair
- There are many methods of repair and no single method is the answer for all cases.
- A team approach may be required using many different techniques
- Laparoscopy is a safe and effective technique using tension free patch material for defect
closure.
PRE-OPERATIVE
- Inform your doctor of all medication that you are taking
- There are many factors that may affect healing which will require attention at your doctor’s
discretion. Obesity, prostate enlargement, chronic cough, constipation and smoking.
OPERATION
This surgery requires general anaesthetic. The technique and length of surgery depends on the complexity of the hernia.
POST-OPERATIVE
Post-operatively you will be taken to the recovery room until stable. You will be given medication for pain and may have an epidural for pain relief.
HOME-CARE
- Your total wound strength will only recover after 1 year
- Discuss with your surgeon when you can go back to work or drive.
- Strenuous activity should be avoided and discussed with your surgeon.
- Make sure your diet is modified to prevent constipation.
COMPLICATIONS
- Complications may occur and you should be aware of this
- Bleeding at the port site for the laparoscope or at hernial site may occur. Your doctor may need to
treat this surgically.
- Infection may occur at the hernial site .This may require antibiotics or removal of the patch.
- These hernias have a recurrence rate due to the same predisposing factors originally .This has
many causes and is not usually a technical fault
- As with any major surgery, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism is always possible
