Name of the Procedure:

Repair initial incisional or ventral hernia; reducible

Summary

This surgical procedure involves repairing a reducible hernia occurring at the site of a previous incision or within the ventral (abdominal) area. A reducible hernia means the protruding tissue can be pushed back into the abdomen.

Purpose

This procedure addresses hernias that occur due to weakness in the abdominal wall at the site of a previous surgical incision or within the ventral area. The goal is to repair the hernia, prevent recurrence, and alleviate pain or discomfort.

Indications

• Visible bulge in the abdominal or incisional area that can be pushed back in.
• Pain or discomfort at the hernia site.
• Hernia enlargement over time.
• Previous abdominal surgery leading to the development of an incisional hernia.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments or cessation of certain medications as instructed by the doctor.
• Pre-operative blood tests and imaging studies like an abdominal CT scan or ultrasound.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given general anesthesia.
2. A surgical incision is made at the site of the hernia.
3. The herniated tissue is pushed back into the abdominal cavity.
4. The weakened area of the abdominal wall is reinforced using sutures, mesh, or both.
5. The incision is closed with sutures or staples.
6. Sterile dressings are applied to the incision site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical assistant
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room nurses

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Bleeding or hematoma formation.
• Recurrence of the hernia.
• Injury to surrounding organs or tissues.
• Anesthesia-related complications.

Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort associated with the hernia.
• Preventing the hernia from becoming incarcerated or strangulated.
• Improved abdominal wall strength and function.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a day or be discharged the same day.
• Pain management with medications as prescribed.
• Limited physical activity for a few weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Instructions on wound care and recognizing signs of infection.

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting for small, asymptomatic hernias.
• Non-surgical options like wearing hernia belts or trusses.
• Alternative surgical techniques such as laparoscopic hernia repair, which may offer shorter recovery times but is not suitable for all patients.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything.
• Post-procedure, there may be some pain and discomfort managed with medication.
• Full recovery can take several weeks, with gradual resumption of normal activities as advised by the surgeon.