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Hernia surgery, or herniorrhaphy, is a common surgical procedure used to repair hernias, which occur when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias most commonly occur in the abdomen, but can also appear in the groin, upper thigh, and belly button areas.
The surgery aims to provide permanent relief from the discomfort and potential complications associated with hernias. This procedure is typically recommended when hernias cause pain or other symptoms, or if there is a risk of complications like strangulation.
Hernias come in various forms, and understanding the different types commonly treated with surgery can help identify and diagnose these conditions. Here are the main types of hernias that often require surgical intervention:
The most common type occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, often in the inguinal canal in the groin area. This type is more common in men than women.
Less common and more likely to occur in women; this hernia appears in the upper thigh, just below the groin. It happens when tissue pushes through the wall of the femoral canal.
Occurs near the belly button when part of the small intestine passes through the abdominal wall. This type is most commonly seen in infants but can also affect adults.
Develops through a scar left from a previous abdominal surgery, where the intestine pushes through the weakened abdominal tissue.
Involves the stomach protruding into the chest through the hiatus, an opening in the diaphragm. Unlike abdominal wall hernias, hiatal hernias require a different surgical approach, often involving techniques that address the unique anatomical location.
Hernia surgery is recommended based on several factors that assess the severity, symptoms, and potential risks associated with the hernia. Here are the primary indications for opting for surgical repair:
Proper preparation for hernia surgery ensures a successful outcome and minimises the risk of complications. Here are the key steps involved:
Before surgery, a thorough medical evaluation is conducted to assess your overall health and any risks associated with anaesthesia. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and discussions about any existing medical conditions.
Before undergoing surgery, patients need to disclose all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, especially those that might affect blood clotting. It may need to be adjusted or stopped temporarily.
You will likely be instructed to fast for several hours before the surgery, usually starting at midnight before the day of the procedure. This is to reduce the risk of aspiration during anaesthesia.
Consult our dual fellowship-trained surgeon for a personalised treatment plan today.
The patient is prepared for surgery, which includes cleaning the skin over the hernia site. General anaesthesia is administered to ensure the patient remains unconscious and free from pain during the procedure.
Open Surgery: A single, larger incision is made near the hernia site to directly access the weakened area.
Laparoscopic Surgery: Several small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert the laparoscope and surgical instruments.
The hernia sac containing the protruding tissue is identified and isolated from the surrounding tissues.
The contents of the hernia sac are carefully pushed back into their correct position within the abdomen.
The weakened area of muscle or tissue is repaired. This is typically done by sewing the edges of healthy muscle tissue together. In many cases, a mesh material is placed over the repair site to reinforce the area and prevent recurrence.
The surgical area is examined to ensure that the hernia has been adequately repaired and that the mesh, if used, is securely in place.
Open Surgery: The initial incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples.
Laparoscopic Surgery: The small incisions are closed with sutures, staples, or surgical glue.
A sterile dressing is applied to the incision sites to protect them against infection and to absorb any minor bleeding that might occur.
The patient is given detailed instructions on how to care for the incision sites, on signs of infection to watch out for, and on activities to avoid during recovery. Instructions for follow-up visits and pain management are also provided.
The recovery process after hernia surgery can vary based on the type of hernia, the method of repair, and the patient’s overall health. Here are some general guidelines for recovery and aftercare:
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Dr Thng Yongxian is a dual fellowship-trained Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon who has performed over 6000 surgical procedures.
He pursued his subspecialty training in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery first in the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Singapore General Hospital. Following this, he completed a clinical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital in Bundang, South Korea.
Dr Thng set up and pioneered the Minimally invasive surgery program for his hospital in complex liver and pancreas cases. His surgeries were featured on live national television. His surgical videos have also been presented at international surgical conferences. He also pioneered the use of capsule colonoscopy for colorectal screening.
Dr Thng has served on various committees at hospital, cluster and ministry level. Dr Thng served as a member of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy Clinician workgroup for value-driven care (VDC).
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3 Mount Elizabeth, #08-06, Singapore 228510
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38 Irrawaddy Road, #08-43, Singapore 329563
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Sunday & PH: Closed
319 Joo Chiat Place, #05-01, Singapore 427989
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday, Sunday & PH: Closed
820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
Yes, hernia surgery is generally very effective at relieving the discomfort and limitations caused by hernias, significantly improving quality of life, especially when hernias are large or painful.
In most cases, hernia repair is permanent. The risk of recurrence depends on various factors, including the surgical technique used, the patient’s adherence to postoperative care instructions, and the person’s health conditions.
To minimise the risk of recurrence, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for the period recommended, maintain a healthy weight, follow a balanced diet to prevent constipation, and exercise regularly to strengthen abdominal muscles once fully healed.