Understanding Hernia Surgery: A Guide for Patients at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, Pimpri Chinchwad (PCMC)

Hernias are a common medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. If you’ve been diagnosed with a hernia and advised to undergo surgery, it’s natural to have concerns and questions. At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital in Pimpri Chinchwad (PCMC), we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. This guide aims to help you understand what a hernia is, why surgery might be necessary, what to expect during the procedure, and how to prepare for a smooth recovery.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscles or surrounding tissue wall. While hernias can develop in various parts of the body, they most commonly occur in the abdomen. The types of hernias include:

• Inguinal Hernia: Occurs in the groin area, more common in men.
• Femoral Hernia: Found in the upper thigh, near the groin, more common in women.
• Umbilical Hernia: Happens near the navel or belly button.
• Incisional Hernia: It Occurs through a scar from previous surgery.
• Hiatal Hernia: Part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity causing pain.

Why Might You Need Surgery?

Hernias don’t typically go away on their own and can worsen over time. If left untreated, they can lead to complications such as:

• Strangulation: When the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off, this causes tthe tissue’s death. This is a medical emergency.
• Obstruction: When the hernia blocks the intestines, causing severe pain and digestive issues.
• Increased Discomfort: Over time, a hernia can grow larger and become more painful, impacting your quality of life.

Surgery is the only definitive treatment for hernias. The goal is to repair the weakened area and prevent the hernia from recurring. At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, we use the latest techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Types of Hernia Surgery

There are two primary types of hernia repair surgeries:

1. Open Surgery: In this traditional approach, the surgeon makes a larger incision near the hernia. The protruding tissue is pushed back into place, and the weakened area is repaired, often with the help of a synthetic mesh. This method is effective but may require a longer recovery time.
2. Laparoscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive procedure involves making several small incisions through which a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical tools are inserted. The hernia is repaired in a similar manner to open surgery, but with less trauma to the surrounding tissues. Laparoscopic surgery generally results in a faster recovery and less post-operative pain.

Preparing for Hernia Surgery

At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, our team will guide you through the pre-operative process to ensure you’re well-prepared for surgery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Medical Evaluation: Before surgery, you will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a consultation with an anesthesiologist.
• Medication Management: Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You may need to stop certain medications before surgery.
• Fasting: You’ll likely be instructed to fast (no food or drink) for several hours before your procedure to reduce the risk of complications during anesthesia.
• Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital, as you won’t be able to drive yourself after the surgery.

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

On the day of your surgery, you’ll be admitted to Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital’s surgical department. The medical team will review your medical history, explain the procedure, and answer any last-minute questions. You’ll change into a hospital gown, and an IV line will be placed to administer fluids and medications.

The surgery itself usually takes between one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the hernia and the type of surgery being performed. After the procedure, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where your vital signs will be closely monitored as you wake up from anesthesia.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from hernia surgery varies depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed. Here are some general guidelines:

• Post-Operative Pain: It’s normal to experience some discomfort after surgery, especially around the incision site. Pain relief medications will be prescribed to help manage this.
• Activity Restrictions: You’ll need to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and any movements that could strain the repaired area for several weeks. Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on your surgery.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and ensure the hernia has been successfully repaired.
• Signs of Complications: Contact your doctor immediately if you experience fever, excessive pain, redness or swelling at the incision site, or any other unusual symptoms.

Why Choose Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital?

At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital in Pimpri Chinchwad (PCMC), we are committed to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. Our experienced surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and patient-centered approach ensure that you receive the best possible care from diagnosis through recovery.

Our dedicated team will support you at every step, providing personalized care tailored to your needs. We understand that surgery can be daunting, and we’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and make your experience as comfortable as possible.

If you have been diagnosed with a hernia and are considering surgery,or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to consult our Expert Dr. Deepa Kulkarni (General / Laparoscopic / Hernia Surgeon & Breast Specialist ) for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that’s right for you, helping you return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.