Treatment Options
It’s recommended to have any type of hernia eventually repaired, dependent on the patient’s health. However, if a hernia has minimal- to-no symptoms, the patient and his or her physician may choose to monitor the hernia first, allowing time to treat the underlying causes of the hernia while minimizing risk factors for surgery. (See the “Risk factors” section above for a list of modifiable risk factors that contribute to the formation of hernias.)
There are two steps in the treatment of hernias:
Step 1: Eliminate Risk Factors
Quitting smoking, weight loss, regulation of diabetes, improving nutrition, eliminating active infections anywhere in the body, and treatment for medical conditions that cause chronic strain on the abdominal wall are important first steps when preparing for hernia surgery. Smoking, for example, can increase surgical complications by up to four times, leading to future relapse or infection. Due to this reason, smoking cessation is an important part of treatment for high-risk hernias.
Step 2: Surgical Treatment
Surgery is most often the best solution in treating a hernia. A hernia may be repaired with the use of sutures (stitches) or mesh. Mesh is used in a majority of surgeries as it provides an added layer of reinforcement to the weakened area where the hernia is located and can help decreases the rate of recurrence. To determine which method would provide the best outcome for your hernia type and individual risk factors, discuss surgical treatment methods with your surgeon.
There are 3 surgical options:
- Open approach – requires a larger incision and longer recovery, but for some patients it may be a better option compared to the less invasive approaches due to type, size, risk factors and complexity of the hernia.
- Laparoscopic approach – less invasive than an open approach as it requires smaller incisions to access the hernia. This approach has a faster healing time and is initially associated with less pain. Indications are also dependent on the size, risk factors, and type of hernia.
- Robotically-assisted laparoscopic approach – a less invasive option utilizing the da Vinci® robot. The surgeon is able to perform more complex procedures that are difficult to do laparoscopically. The robot provides tools for more intricate procedures and provides the surgeon with a three-dimensional view.
To determine the best surgical procedure that would provide the best outcome for you, the following is taken into consideration: the type of hernia, the size of the hernia, the complexity (first-time hernia or a recurrent), your risk factors involved, and your own personal goals for this surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hernia Surgery
How do I know if I need hernia surgery?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, surgery may help correct the problem and relieve your discomfort.
Am I a candidate for hernia surgery?
To ensure the best outcome, patients should:
- Quit smoking at least three weeks prior to surgery and not smoke for eight weeks after surgery.
- Have a BMI of less than 35.
- Maintain controlled sugar levels, if diabetic, with an A1C of 7 or less.
- Have no active skin conditions in the affected area.
What if I don't have surgery? Can it get worse?
Hernias will not go away on their own. Over time, they can increase in size or symptoms can worsen. In rare cases, emergent surgery may be required. It's best to be proactive and seek surgical advice early on. Elective surgery is often recommended.
Are there any non-surgical options?
Surgery is the standard of care for hernias. However, depending upon your risk factors, and after consulting with your surgeon, initial or permanent watchful waiting may be an alternative.
How will I know if my insurance covers my hernia consultation and surgery?
Prior to your first appointment, Mercy financial navigators will verify that your care is covered under the conditions of your insurance. If there are any issues, they will contact you.
