Name of the Procedure:

Repair inguinal hernia, sliding, any age
Common name(s): Hernia repair surgery, Inguinal hernia repair

Summary

Inguinal hernia repair surgery involves fixing a hernia in the groin area where part of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through a weakened spot in the abdominal muscles. The procedure can be done through an open incision or laparoscopically.

Purpose

The medical condition it addresses: Inguinal hernia, specifically a sliding hernia
Goals: To return the protruding tissue to its proper place and strengthen the weakened area to prevent recurrence.

Indications

• Visible or palpable lump in the groin area
• Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting
• Weakness or pressure in the groin
• Patients of any age experiencing these symptoms or complications related to the hernia.

Preparation

• Fasting: Typically required for 8 hours before surgery
• Medication: Adjustments may be needed according to the physician’s advice
• Diagnostics: Physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan may be done.

Procedure Description

1. Administration of anesthesia (general or local with sedation).
2. Making an incision at the site of the hernia (open surgery) or small incisions for inserting laparoscopic tools (laparoscopic surgery).
3. Returning the protruding tissue to the abdomen.
4. Reinforcing the weakened area with sutures and often a mesh implant to provide additional support.
5. Closing the incision(s) with sutures or surgical staples.

Tools/Equipment: Surgical knives, mesh, laparoscope (for laparoscopic surgery), sutures/staples
Anesthesia: General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation

Duration

Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

Performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist

Risks and Complications

• Common: Pain, infection at the incision site, bruising, swelling
• Rare: Hernia recurrence, nerve damage, blood clots, complications from anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort
• Prevention of complications like strangulated hernia or bowel obstruction
• Strengthening the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence Most benefits are typically realized shortly after recovery from surgery.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Keeping the incision area clean, managing pain with prescribed medication
• Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks for light activities, full recovery can take up to 6 weeks
• Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities; follow-up appointments for wound check and recovery assessment

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting: Monitoring the hernia for changes or worsening symptoms
• Other surgical options: Different techniques for hernia repair, such as mesh-free repair Pros and Cons: Alternatives often involve risk of increasing symptoms or potential complications if untreated.

Patient Experience

During the procedure: Patients will be under anesthesia and not feel pain. After the procedure: Soreness at the incision site, mild to moderate pain managed with medication, guidelines for gradual return to normal activities for comfort and safety.