Therapy
Surgery is recommended in almost all cases of inguinal hernia, as it is possible that e.g. intestinal contents protrude into the hernia sac and threaten to die off, which is a life-threatening complication. Only if the inguinal hernia is very small and does not cause any symptoms, it may be observed at first. During surgery, the contents of the hernia sac are moved back into the abdominal cavity and the opening through which the hernia passes is closed. In post-operative treatment, once the wound has healed, the abdominal muscles can be slowly built up to prevent recurrence.
OP and the duration afterwards
In the meantime, there are many different surgical techniques for the treatment of inguinal hernia. The operation can be performed open using an incision in the groin, or minimally invasive (endoscopic).In addition, for example, after the hernia sac has been moved back into the abdominal cavity, a plastic mesh can be applied, or the hernia canal can be closed with a suture. As a rule, surgery under general anesthesia is recommended, although treatment under local anesthesia is also possible, although less recommended.
The surgical technique and the recommended anesthesia depend on the individual findings and previous illnesses of the patient. In some cases, treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis, but more often it is carried out on an inpatient basis. The patient is usually discharged from the hospital 24 hours to 2 days after the operation.
Around the 10th day after the operation, the stitches can be removed by the family doctor. After the stitches are removed, the patient can begin to slowly increase everyday stress. In general, light activities such as driving a car or riding a bicycle can be resumed after about 2 weeks.
After approx. 4 weeks it is possible again to do light ball sports or jogging. 6 weeks after the operation there should be no more sports restrictions. Nevertheless, no heavy loads (over 10 kg) should be lifted 3-6 months after the operation. These values are guidelines, however, the recommendations should be assessed individually in each case, depending on wound healing and symptoms.
