Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, hernioplasty, herniorrhaphy, herniotomy
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Unlisted Laparoscopy Procedure: Hernioplasty, Herniorrhaphy, Herniotomy
Summary
A minimally invasive surgical procedure known as hernioplasty, herniorrhaphy, or herniotomy is used to repair hernias. A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. This surgery uses laparoscopic techniques, involving small incisions and camera-guided instruments, to correct the problem.
Purpose
The procedure addresses the issue of hernias, which can cause pain, discomfort, or serious complications if left untreated. The goals are to repair the weakened area, prevent the hernia from recurring, and alleviate symptoms.
Indications
- Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
- Visible bulging or swelling in the abdominal or groin area
- Symptoms exacerbated by activities like lifting, bending, or coughing
- Potentially life-threatening complications such as strangulation or obstruction of the herniated tissue
Preparation
- Fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure
- Discontinuing certain medications as advised by the surgeon
- Undergoing pre-operative diagnostic tests like blood work, imaging studies, or a physical examination
Procedure Description
- The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
- Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
- A laparoscope (a small camera) is inserted through one of the incisions, providing a visual of the internal area.
- Surgical instruments are inserted through other incisions to repair the hernia.
- The herniated tissue is repositioned, and the weakened muscle area is reinforced, often using a mesh material.
- The incisions are closed with sutures or staples.
Duration
The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and specific type of hernia being repaired.
Setting
The surgery is performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.
Personnel
- Surgeon specialized in laparoscopic procedures
- Anesthesiologist
- Nursing staff
- Surgical technologist
Risks and Complications
- Infection at the incision sites
- Bleeding
- Recurrence of the hernia
- Injury to surrounding organs or tissues
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Chronic pain or discomfort
Benefits
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions
- Reduced pain and scarring compared to open surgery
- Quicker recovery time
- Lower risk of infection
- Effective long-term relief from hernia symptoms
Recovery
- Most patients can go home the same day or the next day
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Pain management with prescribed medication
- Gradual return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks
Alternatives
- Open hernia repair surgery: Has larger incisions and longer recovery
- Watchful waiting: Monitoring the hernia without immediate surgery, appropriate for small, asymptomatic hernias
- Non-surgical treatments: May provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying problem
Patient Experience
During the procedure, patients will be asleep under general anesthesia, experiencing no pain. Post-procedure, mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the incision sites is normal but manageable with pain medication. Most patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms within a few days and return to normal activities relatively quickly.