Hernia surgery

Why do hernias require surgery?

Abdominal hernias are mostly caused by reduced muscle elasticity and a weakening of the connective tissue membrane of the abdominal cavity, and for this reason conservative treatments are completely ineffective. Neither bandages nor physiotherapy can help strengthen the abdominal wall or close the openings through which internal organs may protrude.

The only effective treatment method is surgery. At GMS Hospital we treat abdominal hernias using non-tensioned hernioplasty, which provides the following benefits:

• Latest-generation endoprostheses (including 3D grids).
• Minimal trauma to surrounding tissues.
• Short recovery period.
• Discharge from hospital within 24 hours.
• No complications or risk of recurrence.

Hernias are dangerous due to their tendency to clamp shut, which can lead to the tissue death of internal organs. Thanks to the latest microsurgical techniques, hernias can be eradicated in just one hour. After 6 weeks, the patient can return to a normal life, forgetting about the problem forever.

Hernia Center at GMS Hospital

At the Hernia Center we perform safe and effective operations to correct all types of hernias. Our specialists work in full compliance with international standards and treatment protocols, using the most advanced approaches to ensure the best patient outcomes.

The surgeons at the Hernia Center are experienced doctors of the highest category, with PhD or post-doctorate degrees. At GMS Hospital, patients can be assured of the following:

• The best medical care possible.
• An individually-designed surgical plan, taking into account the patient’s medical history, general health, the complexity of the case, and the scope of the required surgery.
• Expert consultation with specialists.
• 24-hour service.
• Comfortable inpatient facilities.
• Convenient location.

GMS Hospital combines a modern diagnostic facility with a state-of-the-art surgical center. The clinic boasts a surgical ward with three operating suites, designed to the highest standards of safety and sterility, as well as an intensive care unit and an inpatient facility with comfortable rooms.

Hernia repair using mesh

Hernias of the abdomen and groin area are among the most common medical conditions which require surgery. In the operation, called hernioplasty, surgeons implant a special mesh endoprosthesis to strengthen the hernial area while eliminating tension on surrounding tissues.

This is the least traumatic treatment option, and is practically free of the risk of postoperative complications.

Advantages of non-tensioned hernioplasty

Hernia repair using mesh has a number of undisputed advantages:

• Reduced pain - since this technique does not involve the stretching or stitching of tissues, there is no pronounced pain after the operation.
• No recidivism - endoprosthetic implants form a reliable barrier, preventing the recurrence of hernias.
• Short recovery period - depending on the operation, the patient stays at the inpatient facility for one to three days; full recovery is achieved in six weeks, even for professional athletes.

Remember - the larger the hernial protrusion becomes, the greater the scope of the surgical intervention required. Therefore, do not put off a consultation with a specialist if you discover the symptoms of a hernia.

With what symptoms should you consult a doctor?

The main clinical indication of a hernia is a bulge or protrusion in the abdomen, groin, or scrotum that increases with physical exertion and decreases or disappears when the person is lying down. As the stage of the disorder progresses, discomfort increases and the following symptoms appear:

• Weakness, sensation of tightness or pain in the area of the protrusion.
• Pain during physical straining, weight lifting, or coughing.
• Flatulence, nausea, vomiting (if there is an intestinal loop in the hernial sac).
• Difficult urination (if the bladder is involved).

Hernias are dangerous in that they have a high risk of causing pinching, leading to impaired blood circulation in tissues, tissue death, and the development of peritonitis and even sepsis. Do not postpone a visit to the doctor - sign up for a consultation with a hernia specialist if you have any of the above symptoms. Early diagnosis and proper treatment is the best way to avoid complications!

Rehabilitation at the clinic

Even the least traumatic operations cause stress to the body, and patients need time for recovery. Depending on the specific hernia operation, patients generally spend between one and three days in the inpatient facility before going home. During the first several days after surgery the following may be observed:

• Discoloration and slight inflammation in the area of the operation.
• Mild pain.
• Numbness, or the opposite - increased sensitivity - in the area of the postoperative scar.

These symptoms are a completely normal reaction to the surgery, and typical at the initial stage of the recovery period. The level of discomfort and intensity of the pain depends on the type of operation performed. After laparoscopy the healing process is faster, because instead of stitches only a few small punctures remain.

The full recovery period takes about six weeks. During this time:

• Physical activity should be reduced, but not completely eliminated.
• A truss or abdominal bandage may have to be worn.
• The patient needs to carefully follow the physician's advice on nutrition, i.e. a balanced, gentle diet in order to prevent constipation, with adequate drinking of liquids.
• Physical therapy is indicated.

Surgeons at GMS Hospital take an individualized approach to each patient's treatment. Our doctors carefully monitor each stage of therapy, and after the operation they perform the necessary recovery and rehabilitation procedures aimed at a speedy return to health and a normal, active lifestyle.

There is no need to despair if you have been diagnosed with a hernia. An operation performed in time will lead to a full recovery, and allow you to enjoy life without pain or discomfort. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner you will forget about the troubles caused by the hernia. Sign up for a consultation with a surgeon by phone or online.