Complete Guide to Hernia Surgery: Procedure, Anesthesia, Hospital Stay & Recovery

What Is Hernia Surgery?

A hernia develops when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak area in the muscle or connective tissue that normally holds it in place. Hernia surgery repairs this weakness by returning the protruding tissue to its normal position and strengthening the abdominal wall.

The main goal of surgery is to relieve symptoms, prevent complications and reduce the chance of the hernia returning in the future.

When Is Hernia Surgery Recommended?

Not every hernia needs immediate surgery. Your surgeon recommends treatment based on the type of hernia, your symptoms and the risk of complications.

• Persistent pain or discomfort.
• A hernia that is increasing in size.
• Difficulty performing daily activities.
• A hernia that cannot be pushed back inside easily.
• Risk of bowel obstruction or strangulation.
• Emergency situations involving trapped intestine.

A strangulated hernia is considered a medical emergency because the blood supply to the trapped tissue may be reduced. Immediate surgical treatment is usually required.

What Happens Before Hernia Surgery?

Your surgical journey begins with a detailed consultation. The surgeon carefully evaluates your overall health and the characteristics of your hernia before recommending the most appropriate treatment.

During the consultation, your surgeon may assess:

• The type and location of your hernia.
• Its size and whether it is increasing.
• Whether it can be pushed back into the abdomen.
• Pain, swelling or other symptoms.
• Previous abdominal surgeries.
• Your medical history and current medications.

Preoperative Tests Before Surgery

Before the operation, you may undergo a preoperative assessment to ensure surgery and anesthesia are safe.

• Blood tests.
• Blood pressure and heart rate check.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) if required.
• Chest evaluation when necessary.
• Diabetes assessment if applicable.
• Kidney and liver function tests when recommended.

The exact investigations depend on your age, overall health and the type of surgery being performed.

Medicines You Should Discuss Before Surgery

Always tell your healthcare team about every medicine, vitamin or herbal supplement you take.

• Blood thinners.
• Aspirin or antiplatelet medicines.
• Diabetes medications.
• Blood pressure medicines.
• Steroids.
• Herbal supplements and over-the-counter medicines.

Never stop prescribed medicines without discussing them with your surgeon or anesthesiologist.

Fasting Before Hernia Surgery

If you are receiving anesthesia, you will be given instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before surgery.

Following these fasting instructions is extremely important because it helps reduce the risk of complications during anesthesia.

What Happens on the Day of Surgery?

When you arrive at the hospital, the surgical team will prepare you for the procedure.

• Registration and admission.
• Review of your medical history.
• Confirmation of the planned procedure.
• Checking allergies and medications.
• Meeting your surgeon.
• Meeting the anesthesiologist.
• Signing the surgical consent form.

What Type of Anesthesia Is Used?

The type of anesthesia depends on the type of hernia, the surgical technique and your overall health.

1. General Anesthesia

You will be completely asleep during the operation and will not feel pain. General anesthesia is commonly used for laparoscopic (keyhole) hernia surgery.

2. Local Anesthesia

Only the surgical area is numbed while you remain awake. This may be suitable for selected open hernia repairs.

3. Spinal or Regional Anesthesia

The lower part of your body is numbed while you remain awake or lightly sedated. This is sometimes used for open hernia surgery.

Open vs Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery

There are two main surgical techniques used to repair a hernia. Your surgeon recommends the most suitable option based on your condition.

Open Hernia Repair

• A single incision is made over the hernia.
• The protruding tissue is returned to its normal position.
• The weakened muscle is repaired.
• A surgical mesh may be placed to strengthen the area.
• The incision is then closed with stitches or staples.

Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Hernia Surgery

• Several very small incisions are made.
• A tiny camera (laparoscope) is inserted.
• Special surgical instruments repair the hernia.
• A mesh is commonly placed from inside the abdomen.
• Smaller incisions may lead to faster recovery for many patients.