What is Hernia Surgery

Hernia surgery allows the surgeon to push the organ and herniated tissue back into their place and reinforce the barrier holding it with the help of stitches or surgical mesh. A hernia is a common medical condition that occurs when an internal tissue or organ protrudes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. Hernia Surgery is recommended in cases when other treatments fail or if there is a risk of complications.

There are two types of hernia surgeries: Laparoscopic and Open

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

It is an advanced procedure where the surgeon makes several small cuts in the lower abdomen and inserts special tools to view and repair the hernia. A mesh is used to close and strengthen the abdominal wall. This procedure causes less pain and injury to the nearby areas and speeds up the recovery time.

Open Hernia Repair

Under this procedure, the surgeon cuts the groin to see and repair the hernia. It is a traditional type of hernia surgery in Singapore that involves making large incisions to push the hernia back into its original position. Once done, they use stitches or mesh to close the abdominal wall. The mesh, so inserted, strengthens the weak area and prevents the hernia from relapsing.

How Do I Prepare for Hernia Surgery?

If your doctor has recommended hernia repair surgery, it’s important to make certain preparations in advance to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. The exact preparation may vary depending on the type of surgery (open or laparoscopic) and your overall health.

• You may be advised to stop taking certain medications—especially blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs—as they can increase the risk of bleeding or complications during surgery. Always consult your doctor before stopping any medication.
• If you smoke, it is highly recommended to quit smoking at least a few weeks before the surgery. Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of infections and other post-operative complications.
• Inform your surgeon about any existing medical conditions and ongoing treatments or medications. This helps the surgical team plan your procedure more safely and effectively.
• Additionally, you will be asked to fast—avoiding food and drink—for several hours before the surgery. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions based on the timing and type of the procedure.

What are the risks of Hernia Surgery?

While hernia surgery in Singapore has a high success rate, it is important to note that, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. Most of these risks are not severe and can often be managed through appropriate medical care and lifestyle adjustments.

• Post-operative pain and discomfort are common. While mild pain is expected during recovery, persistent pain lasting beyond three months should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Mesh infection is a rare but possible complication in cases where surgical mesh is used. Infections may require additional treatment or, in some cases, mesh removal.
• Bleeding or damage to surrounding tissues, such as nearby organs or blood vessels, may occur during surgery, although this is uncommon with experienced surgeons.
• Surgical site infections can develop after the procedure but are typically manageable with prescribed antibiotics and proper wound care.

Although these risks exist, they are generally low, especially when the surgery is performed by skilled professionals in a well-equipped facility.

What Happens After Hernia Surgery?

Most patients who undergo hernia treatment in Singapore can return home on the same day, especially if they have opted for laparoscopic or robotic surgery in Singapore. In many cases, you can resume your normal routine within 1–2 weeks after the procedure.

It is normal to experience some pain or discomfort at the surgical site. Take painkillers as prescribed by your surgeon to manage this discomfort. Be sure to follow all wound care instructions carefully to minimize the risk of infection. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fiber is also recommended to prevent straining during bowel movements, which can affect healing. Finally, do not skip your follow-up appointments, as they are essential for monitoring your recovery.

Cost of Hernia Surgery in Singapore

Here is a tentative breakdown of the average costs associated with different types of hernia surgeries. Please note, these figures are for reference only. The final amount may vary based on the diagnosis made by your doctor.

Understanding the cost of hernia repair surgery in Singapore is essential when planning your treatment. The price can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of hernia, the complexity of the surgery, and the expertise of the healthcare provider. Here’s an overview:

• The cost of this procedure also covers diagnostic tests, including X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or any other procedure recommended by your surgeon.
• The cost depends on the type of surgery you choose. Traditional open surgery may be less expensive than laparoscopic surgery. Additionally, the specific type of hernia being repaired is considered when calculating the overall cost.
• Post-surgery hospital stay and related care are other factors that contribute to the total cost for the hernia surgery.

Additional Info

What is Hernia?

A hernia refers to a bulge that develops when an organ pushes through the muscle or tissue surrounding it. While several factors can cause a hernia, the most common is any condition that puts additional strain on the body.

Hernias can develop in various parts of the body, with the abdomen and groin being the most common regions. The most typical sign of a hernia is a noticeable lump, which may disappear when you lie down and reappear when you cough or sneeze. Depending on the type of hernia, you may also experience other symptoms.

Symptoms of Hernia

The most common symptom of all kinds of hernia is a noticeable bulge or lump appearing on the skin. At first, this bulge doesn’t cause any pain or discomfort. But gradually, you start experiencing some pain around it. The bulge may not always be present. For instance, it might go away when you lie down and appear again when you stand, strain, or lift heavy objects. A hiatal hernia doesn’t cause a bulge. But it may result in symptoms such as acid reflux, heartburn, and regurgitation of foods or liquids.

When a hernia gets bigger, the small intestine inside it may get stuck in the hole and lose its blood supply. This may cause symptoms like nausea and vomiting, or not being able to pass gas or have a bowel movement. Such cases require medical attention.

How is Hernia Diagnosed?

To diagnose a hernia, the doctor uses a simple physical examination, such as touching the location of the hernia. They may be able to see or feel it upon touching. They may also ask you to cough or adjust your position to locate the hernia. A physical examination is conducted to check the severity of the hernia. If they are unable to locate the exact position, they may suggest diagnostic procedures, such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis and find the exact position of the hernia. This usually happens in the case of an inguinal hernia. Early diagnosis is key so that timely hernia surgery in Singapore can be done if required.

Types of Hernias

Inguinal Hernia: Also known as a groin hernia, this is the most common type, accounting for around 75% of all hernias. It affects men more than women and occurs when a part of the bowel protrudes into the inguinal canal—a passageway running down the inner thigh. It is often characterized by pain and discomfort in this region.

Femoral Hernia: A femoral hernia is a less common type of groin hernia that may develop in the femoral canal, located just below the inguinal canal. People who are obese are more prone to developing this type. Its symptoms are similar to those of an inguinal hernia, with the main difference being the location.

Umbilical Hernia: As the name suggests, an umbilical hernia develops near the belly button. It occurs when a part of the intestine pushes through an opening in the abdominal wall in that area. Unlike other types of hernias, this one is less common and is often present from birth.

Incisional Hernia: An incisional hernia occurs when tissue protrudes through a previous surgical incision in the abdominal wall that has weakened over time. Individuals who have undergone conventional abdominal surgery are at higher risk of developing this type. It may also occur following traumatic injury to the abdominal wall.

Most of these conditions can be effectively managed through hernia procedure in Singapore, depending on the type and severity.

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