Pain after an umbilical hernia operation

Definition

An umbilical hernia operation is a very minor procedure. Nevertheless, it requires access to the abdominal cavity, which can lead to postoperative pain. This pain occurs as soon as the pain medication of the operation wears off and is also known as wound pain.

This is completely normal and usually lasts only a few days. Post-operative wound pain is usually manifested by a permanent pressure pain and stabbing pain during movements. Relief can be provided by administration of so-called NSARs (non-steroidal anti-rheumatic drugs), such as ibuprofen.

Causes of the pain

Normal is a postoperative pain of the surgical area and the sutures, which lasts for about 1-5 days depending on the type of surgery. Manipulation of the area of operation, for example by coughing, laughing, sneezing or lifting heavy loads, can still cause pain for a longer period of time. Also normal, depending on the type of anesthesia, is the occurrence of postoperative fatigue, nausea and exhaustion.

In rare cases, complications can occur, but these are usually very treatable. Frequent complications are hematomas (bruises) and seromas (accumulation of wound fluid), which are usually limited to the area of the operation and especially to the area where the hernia sac was previously located. These either disappear again by themselves or only have to be punctured (punctured).

Another frequent complication is infection of the skin suture. This causes pain at the puncture site, followed by redness, swelling and pus. The sutures may have to be removed and closed again.

Less frequent complications are deeper-seated inflammations, recurrences (renewed umbilical hernia), adhesions, and an intolerance of the suture material or inserted mesh. Adhesions and incompatibilities may only become noticeable after a longer period of time (months to years) and may necessitate a new operation. Depending on the type of anesthesia, postoperative fatigue, nausea and fatigue are also normal.

In rare cases, complications may occur, but these are usually very treatable. Frequent complications are hematomas (bruises) and seromas (accumulation of wound fluid), which are usually limited to the area of the operation and especially to the area where the hernia sac was previously located. These either disappear again by themselves or only have to be punctured (punctured).

Another frequent complication is infection of the skin suture. This causes pain at the puncture site, followed by redness, swelling and pus. The sutures may have to be removed and closed again. Less frequent complications are deeper-seated inflammations, recurrences (renewed umbilical hernia), adhesions, and an intolerance of the suture material or inserted mesh. Adhesions and incompatibilities may only become noticeable after a longer period of time (months to years) and may necessitate a new operation.