In adults, once a hernia develops, it will not go away without treatment. Trusses (belt-like device) are sometimes used to keep the hernia in place. However, they frequently do not work effectively. Surgery offers the most effective and long-lasting solution for most inguinal, femoral, umbilical and incisional hernias.
In the last few years, hernia surgery has evolved significantly and in most cases, the repair can be done quickly with no overnight hospital stay. Recovery is rapid with very little pain and discomfort following surgery. You can usually return to your normal activities within a few weeks following the repair and sometimes within just a few days of surgery, depending on your individual consultant’s advice.
Traditional or more old-fashioned hernia repair techniques involve suturing the separated abdominal wall muscles and ligaments together. Since muscles are soft and moveable while ligaments remain rigid and stationary, these structures can re-separate over time or the sutures can tear through the tissue, causing the hernia to reform.
More modern types of hernia repair surgery involves placement of a synthetic mesh in the area of the hernia. The mesh strengthens the tissue surrounding the hernia and closes off the separation so that tissues can no longer push their way through. It also means that the tissues are not pulled together and recovery is therefore faster and less painful (hence the term “tension-free”).
Most operations take less than one hour at the Scottish Hernia Centre and many can be done using keyhole surgery techniques. Many can also be performed under local anaesthetic.
The content contained within this website is not produced by BMI Healthcare Limited (BMI) and BMI shall have no liability for errors, omissions or inadequacies. BMI also does not guarantee the website timeliness, completeness or performance.
