Minimally Invasive (Laparoscopic or Key Hole) Repair
Longer time of rest (average 6 weeks) after surgery and the chance of the hernia coming back (recurrent hernia) are some of the limitation of open Hernia surgery which led to rapid popularity of Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery all over the world and in India.Laparoscopic Hernia repair using small incisions offers rapid recovery, less pain and quick return to work.
Small (1.5cm) incision is made just below the umbilicus in the skin and two tiny incisions are placed between the umbilicus and the pubic bone.
The abdomen is inflated with harmless gas (carbon dioxide) to create space to operate. The laparoscope with attached camera and special long instruments are inserted through these incisions. Surgeon performs the procedure watching high resolution images of the patient’s abdomen on the monitor. Hernia contents are pulled back in rather than pushed in from outside as is done in an ‘open’ operation and defect repaired with mesh from inside. Following the procedure, the small abdominal incisions are closed with a stitch or two or surgical tape or glue can be applied.
What are the Benefits of Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?
- Small incisions
- Less post operative pain
- Earlier return to work
- Shorter hospital stay
- Positioning of the mesh on the inside of the defect is mechanically better than when placed on the outside as in the non-keyhole operation
- Recurrent hernias are much easier as approached from the inside, where the tissue has not been affected by the first operation
- Hernias on both sides can be repaired through the same three holes as opposed to open surgery where separate incision is to be given on other side
What are the Risks to Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery?
- Bleeding and infection are uncommon with Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
- There is a slight risk of injury to the urinary bladder, the intestines, blood vessels, nerves or the sperm tube going to the testicle
- Difficulty urinating after surgery may require catheter into the urinary bladder for as long as one week
- Risk of recurrence very rarely
Post Operative Laparoscopic Surgery Period What to Expect
Activity
- Once patient is awake walk is encouraged
- Routine activities like car driving can be resumed one week after keyhole repair and 2 weeks after open repair, Bath can be taken daily if advised
- Avoid bending forward frequently
- Avoid strenuous work and lifting weight over 5kg, for 2 months
Diet
Normal diet and plenty of liquids are advised. Avoid diet which may cause cough and cold.
Hospital Stay & Rest
- Most patient go home same day of the surgery
(day care surgery) - Normal rest at home for 2-3 days
- Some swelling around incision and bluish discoloration is normal in groin hernias, which can be up to scrotum
Pain
Slight pain may be experienced during the first 24 to 48 hours. Painkillers are prescribed for first 2 days
Laparoscopic Preoperative Preparation
- Blood investigations, chest x-ray, ECG and medical evaluation for fitness for anaesthesia.
- Eating or drinking and smoking are stopped 6 hours prior to operation.
- Drugs such as aspirin, blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications and Vitamin E are to be stopped a week prior to surgery
Our Specialist
Dr. Nitish Jhawar
M.S., FMAS, FIAGES, FALS, FACRSI
Fellow Advance Laparoscopic Surgery
Fellow Colorectal Surgery USA
Senior Laparoscopic & Colorectal Surgeon
Phone No: +91 9322 229 159
Email Id: info@neoalta.com
