Postoperative hernia

Surgical intervention is always associated with certain risks for the patient, one of the most common being the development of a postoperative hernia. It occurs due to the disruption of the integrity of muscle and connective tissues that keep internal organs in their proper position.

Regardless of the complexity of the surgery, an incision is made through the skin and deeper layers (subcutaneous tissue, muscles, fascia). After healing, a scar forms, but the tissue in this area is generally weaker than the surrounding muscles, which contributes to hernia development.

Another critical factor is the condition of the surgical wound. Slow tissue healing, improperly sutured edges, or the presence of an inflammatory process significantly increase the risk of hernia formation. Additionally, the use of poor-quality suturing materials can lead to the wound edges failing to hold together properly, creating conditions for a hernia to develop.

Apart from surgical aspects, there are certain factors directly dependent on the patient:

• Gender and age. With age, tissues lose their elasticity. Statistically, men are more prone to this pathology.
• Excess weight. Additional body weight places extra pressure on the abdominal wall, hindering the healing process of postoperative wounds.
• Chronic diseases. Conditions like diabetes or lung diseases slow down recovery and increase the risk of hernia formation.
• Physical activity. Sudden or excessive physical exertion can damage healing tissues.

During the rehabilitation phase, special attention should be given to proper wound care. Ignoring medical advice significantly reduces the chances of complete recovery.

The first sign of hernia development is a protrusion in the area of the surgical wound, which may appear or disappear depending on the patient’s body position. Additional symptoms include:

1. Pain. Pain typically occurs during physical activity or when lifting heavy objects. It may be chronic, sharp, or radiate to other parts of the body.
2. Heaviness. Patients often report discomfort or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen.
3. Intestinal dysfunction. This may manifest as impaired digestion or reduced gastrointestinal functionality.

If left untreated, postoperative hernias can lead to severe complications, such as intestinal obstruction or strangulation of tissues, which is a dangerous condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Treatment begins with determining the type and size of the hernia. Depending on these factors, the doctor may recommend either conservative methods or surgical intervention.

1. Conservative treatment. Suitable for small hernias and involves wearing a support band, maintaining a proper diet, and controlling physical activity. However, these measures are usually temporary and do not guarantee a complete resolution of the problem.
2. Surgical intervention. This is the most effective method of treatment and can be performed using the following approaches:

• Open surgery. Conducted under general or local anesthesia, but recovery takes longer compared to laparoscopy.
• Laparoscopic surgery. Involves small incisions for inserting instruments. Recovery after this procedure is faster, with a lower risk of complications.

During surgery, mesh implants are often used to strengthen the abdominal wall and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

To minimize the risk of developing a hernia after surgery, it is essential to follow medical recommendations:

1. Engage in regular physical exercises to strengthen muscles.
2. Maintain a balanced diet to support tissue health.
3. Avoid lifting heavy objects without proper preparation.

At the New Life Medical Center, you can receive high-quality diagnostics and treatment for postoperative hernias.

Schedule an appointment via phone, Viber, or the online form available on the clinic’s website.