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There are various types of hernia operation available including our minimally-invasive '2-cm incision' technique, suitable for some types of patient. This particular technique is carried out on a daycase basis and often attracts little post-operative pain. A number of general surgeons work at Highgate can offer both outpatient appointments and surgery. What is a Hernia? A hernia is the protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening. Think of a ruptured tyre. When the tyre wall separates, the inner tube can seep through the opening. Similarly, when a hernia occurs, tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall. As the hernia enlarges, it forms a sac. Internal organs such as the intestines can fall into this sac, creating one of the major hernia symptons - a bulge. A hernia induced bulge is most often visible when standing. Lying down allows the tissue in the sac to return to its proper position, and the bulge temporarily disappears. While hernias occur throughout the body, 95% are in the groin area. The most common of all hernias, the inguinal, occurs in the groin area. Protrusions elsewhere on the abdominal wall are called femoral and umbilical hernias. Highest up of all is the hiatal hernia, which occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm separating the chest and the abdomen. How do I get a Hernia? Hernias can be present at birth, or occur over time due to stress and strain on the abdominal wall. Most hernias become apparent later in life because it takes time for the hernial sac to enlarge enough for tissue to fall into it. What are my options? Without surgery, you simply tolerate the hernia. Wearing a truss or binder may temporarily alleviate symptoms, but will not cure the hernia. Only surgery corrects the defect. Traditional repair techniques involve pulling together muscles and ligaments for reinforcement. Since muscles are soft and movable while ligaments remain rigid and stationary, these structures can separate over time, causing hernia recurrence. In fact, approximately 10% of hernias do recur. These older techniques are usually performed under a general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay. Operations and consultations will be carried out by a General Surgeon. The treatment of some types of hernia may beneifit from a wide variety of new techniques, about which your surgeon can advide. Please call 020 8341 4182 |
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Highgate Hospital - 17-19 View Road - Highgate - London N6 4DJ - T: 020 8341 4182 - F: 020 8347 3898 - E: info@highgatehospital.co.uk Privacy Policy - Disclaimer - Copyright 2005 |
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