A hernia is a common medical condition that appears as a bulge or swelling on the abdominal wall. Many people tend to ignore it at first since it causes little or no discomfort, but a hernia is more than just a visible lump. It occurs due to a defect in the abdominal wall, allowing internal organs like the intestines to protrude through. Unlike other health issues, a hernia cannot be treated with medicines, exercises, or supportive belts. The only effective and permanent solution is surgery. If you are wondering what is hernia surgery, it is a medical procedure that repairs this defect in the abdominal wall, preventing complications and ensuring long-term relief.
Why is surgery required for hernia?
Hernia is abnormal swelling or bulge seen on the abdominal wall, generally it is generally felt as swelling with minimal discomfort. So most patients feel that surgery is not necessary and we will make a decision later.
But if there is no pain then why surgery is required?
Hernia is protrusion of stomach contents through defect on abdominal wall and no medicine or belt can cause closure of defect.Hence surgery is ultimate solution for hernia problem
Why go for early surgery for hernia ?
Hernia is small and tissues ( muscles and fasciae) are not so weak so closure of defects is easy and recovery is also faster. In addition to this, chances of recurrence are also less
What are the different types of hernia surgery?
Traditionally hernia was managed by an open method, in which a cut is taken on the hernia site, defect is closed and then reinforced with mesh.Newer minimally invasive procedures are also there like laparoscopy and robotic surgery for hernia. They are done through small key holes on the abdomen, avoiding big cuts. It is well accepted and many patients are choosing it over open surgery due to less pain, faster recovery and better cosmetic results.
What complications can there be if hernia surgery is not done ?
If left untreated, hernia swelling increases slowly in size and causes further weakness on the stomach wall. The intestines can easily go into this defect and can not return to the abdominal cavity and become irreducible.If neglected it can cause blockage of intestines causing obstruction. If blood flow is also hampered then intestines can become gangrenous and can cause serious life threatening complications.
Conclusion
A hernia may look like a minor swelling in the beginning, but it is a condition that requires timely medical attention. Surgery is the only permanent treatment for hernia—there are no alternatives. Many patients often wonder when is hernia surgery needed. The answer is simple—early surgery is the best choice, as it allows for easier repair, quicker recovery, and fewer complications. Delaying surgery, on the other hand, increases the risk of severe problems such as obstruction or strangulation of the intestines, which can become life-threatening.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a hernia, consult Dr. Shrikant Kurhade, a leading Hernia Specialist in pune, at KK Care Clinic. With expertise in advanced laparoscopic and robotic hernia surgery, Dr. Kurhade offers safe, minimally invasive treatments that ensure quicker recovery and long-term relief for patients.