Hernia Surgery: Types, Risks and All You Need to Know

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Hernia, common yet often misunderstood, affects millions across the world. In this article, we will discuss the intricacies of hernia surgeries, shedding light on different types of hernia surgery, symptoms, hernia surgery cost and address the common question, ‘Is hernia surgery dangerous?’

Read on to discover insights from experts, understand the male hernia surgery risks, and gain invaluable knowledge to navigate the journey from diagnosis to recovery. We also aim to empower you to make informed decisions about how the right health insurance can save you from the financial implications of hospitalisation.

What is Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through the muscle or tissue in your abdomen or groin. It forms a noticeable bulge, bump, or lump that may appear and disappear with different body movements.

It might cause discomfort or pain but sometimes, hernia can also be with no symptoms. Hernias may develop gradually with age due to accumulated wear and tear on your muscles. Sometimes they are caused by injury, surgery or certain birth disorders.

Symptoms of Hernia

Some of the most prominent symptoms of hernia include:

Visible Bulge

One of the prominent features of a hernia is a lump in the affected area such as the groin, abdomen, or chest. This bulge becomes more visible when standing, straining, or engaging in activities that require abdominal pressure.

Pain and Discomfort

A sense of pain and discomfort in the affected area is another common symptom. This pain may be dull at first, but it worsens with activities such as coughing, lifting, or bending over.

Digestive Issues

In severe cases, hernia can also lead to digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, or constipation. This happens when a hernia causes pressure on the intestines.

Causes of Hernia

A hernia typically occurs when a weakness or an existing opening in your muscle or connective tissue causes an organ or other tissue to bulge out. Some of the common causes of muscle weakness that can contribute to hernia include:

• Ageing
• Damage from a serious injury or surgery
• Multiple pregnancies
• Obesity
• Constipation often results in strain during a bowel movement
• Strenuous exercises including heavy weight lifting
• Birth defects
• Ascites

Risk Factors of Hernia

Some of the common risk factors for Hernia include:

• Chronic cough or allergies contributing to long-term sneezing
• Smoking
• Personal or family history of hernias
• A job involving heavy weight lifting or long hours of standing
• Record of abdominal or pelvic surgery

Note: Children are more likely to be born with a congenital hernia if they have cystic fibrosis, are prematurely born, suffer from a connective tissue disorder, undescended testicles, hip dysplasia or have other problems in their reproductive or urinary system.

Types of Hernia

When it comes to female or male hernia surgery, the procedure depends on the type of hernia that you have. Let's look at some common hernia types.

Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal hernia constitutes about 75% of all hernias. It predominantly impacts men. These hernias occur when a section of the bowel pushes through the inguinal canal, a passage along the inner thigh. Her surgery is usually performed when the hernia causes severe pain or complications.

Femoral Hernia

A femoral hernia is characterized by a bulge in the upper thigh or groin, occurring when abdominal contents push through a weak spot in the abdominal wall into the femoral canal, located below the inguinal ligament.

Umbilical Hernias

Umbilical hernias occur when body tissues protrude through a weakened area near the belly button (umbilicus), resulting in a visible bulge. This bulge typically becomes more visible during coughing or straining, such as during bowel movements.

Note : It is estimated that about 10% of hernias are umbilical hernias. Generally, they are not painful, but if the pain or symptoms do not go away, your doctor may suggest umbilical hernia surgery.

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia arises when the stomach projects through a weakened spot in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a crucial muscle that separates the lungs from the abdominal organs, aiding breathing. With hiatal hernia, you may have symptoms that include heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Epigastric Hernia

Generally, only 2% to 3% of all abdominal hernias are epigastric hernias. Such a hernia emerges in the epigastric abdominal region, which is above the navel and below the rib cage. These hernias typically result from a separation between the abdominal muscle sides, enabling fat tissue to protrude through. Some individuals are born with this condition, while others may develop it in adulthood due to muscle weakness or excessive straining.

Diagnosis of Hernia

To diagnose a hernia, doctors start with a physical examination of the body. During this, they might look for a bulge in your abominable area. If detected, they would monitor if it gets larger when you stand, cough or strain.

The next step involves analysing your medical history where they might ask you certain questions related to:

• Personal or family history of hernias
• When did you first notice the bulge?
• Lifestyle habits
• Previous surgeries

Doctors are also likely to use imaging tests to help their diagnosis. These tests include abdominal ultrasound, CT and MRI scans. In the case of a hiatal hernia, they might use other tests that allow them to monitor the insides of your abdomen. For example, X-rays and endoscopy.

Treatment of Hernia

The treatment option chosen by doctors depends on the severity of the condition. In case of mild hernia, they might wait for the symptoms to amplify.

In case of severe hernia, hernia repair surgery is conducted. In this type of treatment, the herniated tissue is pushed back to its original place and the barrier is reinforced with the help of stitches or surgical mesh. Other commonly used treatment methods include:

Laparoscopic Surgery

This surgery uses a laparoscope ( a long, thin tube with a lighted camera on the end) to monitor the insides of the surgical site. It’s commonly preferred for smaller and less complex hernias and can be used for various types, including incisional, inguinal and recurrent hernias.

Robotic Surgery

This is an advanced technique for repairing a hernia in which the surgeon sits at a console and guides the robot to perform the surgery. It puts the herniated organ back to where it belongs and closes the muscles from which organs bulge out. This creates a stronger barrier.

Benefits of Hernia Surgery

While hernia surgery might seem frightening to individuals, it offers several benefits including:

Improved Quality of Life

Hernia surgery has proved to be an effective remedy for treating the pain caused by the condition. After the procedure, patients experience less pain and better physical functioning which lets them perform everyday tasks in a normal manner.

Lower Risk of Complications

Modern hernia surgery techniques are designed to reduce the risk of complications such as infection, bleeding and recurrence. With exceptional surgical care and post-surgery monitoring, patients often experience smoother recoveries and fewer risks.

Minimally Invasive Surgery Options

Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries require only small incisions which are less painful, cause minimal scars and recover faster. This approach results in shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to normal activities.

Is Hernia Surgery Dangerous?

Hernia surgery is a surgical procedure, and while it is a safe procedure, sometimes some of the following complications may arise:

• Infection
• Recurrence of hernia
• Injuries related to the scarred tissue
• Blockage in the intestines

Generally, after hernia surgery, you may be discharged the same day. However, the doctor will be the best judge of the same, depending on your medical condition. In most cases the hernia surgery recovery time can range from 4 to 6 weeks. Keep in mind that the hernia surgery recovery time is different for different individuals. Proper rest is required so be careful as you get back to your everyday routine.

After surgery, irrespective of the types of hernia surgery you suffered from, if you notice the following, do not delay getting in touch with your doctor:

• If you have a fever or chills
• If there is bleeding or swelling
• If you have difficulty while passing urine or bowel
• If the post-surgery pain doesn't decrease even after the prescribed painkillers
• If you feel short of breath

>>Also Read : Things That are not covered under Medical Insurance

Hernia and Health Insurance

Contrary to popular belief, hernia can occur in both men and women, though the symptoms can vary from individual to individual. As no one can predict the severity, it is better to plan the expenses of hernia treatment specially hernia surgery cost. According to medical experts, the hernia surgery cost can range from anything between ₹70,000 to ₹85,000. However, depending on the kind of treatment, the expenses can cross ₹1 lakh easily.

The cost of hospitalisation for a hernia surgery procedure can, thus, make a big dent in your savings. Having health insurance coverage can come to your rescue. While most health insurance plans will offer you hernia coverage, it is best suggested that you check the same with your health insurance provider. Some plans offer coverage, however, there may be certain plans that cover the hernia surgery cost up to a certain limit or percentage of the sum insured.

Over to You!

In addition to exploring the impact of hernia surgery on your health, it is also important to understand that in today’s time, having the right health insurance is crucial. Care Supreme Health insurance offers coverage for all types of Hernia after a specific waiting period.

Get in touch with us today to learn about the benefits, coverage, and waiting period clause under Care Supreme plan and manage the costs and uncertainties associated with surgical interventions like hernia.

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.