Umbilical hernia surgery is a surgical intervention to correct a condition in which internal organs exit through a weak point in the abdominal wall. This operation is performed using different techniques depending on the type of hernia and the patient's condition. During surgery, the internal organs within the hernia sac are placed in their normal position and the weak area in the abdominal wall is closed, usually reinforced using a surgical mesh or mesh. This procedure is a treatment option to prevent hernia recurrence and improve the patient's quality of life.
The patient's preoperative condition and the surgeon's preferences determine which method will be used. After the surgery, it is important for the patient to rest, avoid certain activities and follow the healing process recommended by the doctor.
How is Umbilical Hernia Surgery Performed?
Umbilical hernia surgery is a surgical intervention usually performed under local or general anesthesia. The basic stages of the procedure are as follows:
Anesthesia Administration: An anesthesia method determined by the anesthesiologist is applied before the operation. This allows the patient to relax and allows the surgery to be performed smoothly.
Determining the Incision Site: The surgeon determines a suitable incision point in the area where the umbilical hernia is located. The size of this incision depends on the size of the hernia and the type of surgery.
Replacing Hernia Internal Organs: The organs inside the hernia are placed in their normal position. This is done with techniques called hernioplasty or herniorrhaphy.
Strengthening the abdominal wall: The hernia site is strengthened with a surgical mesh or mesh. This material supports the weak area in the abdominal wall, reducing the risk of recurrence.
Incision closure and suturing: Upon completion of the procedure, the surgeon closes the incision site and sutures it appropriately.
The details of umbilical hernia surgery may vary depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's preferences. Therefore, it is important for patients to have a detailed discussion with their surgeon before surgery. The instructions to be followed after the surgery may affect the recovery process.
After Umbilical Hernia Surgery
After umbilical hernia surgery, patients can spend the healing process in a relaxing way by taking care of themselves in certain periods. Here are some important points about the postoperative period:
Hospital Observation: After the surgery, patients are usually kept under observation in the hospital for a while. After the surgical intervention, doctors regularly evaluate the patient's condition.
Pain Management: After surgery, pain management is provided with mild medications. Painkillers are used as directed by the doctor and the patient's comfort is prioritized in this process.
Rest and Movement: Rest is important during the healing process, but light exercises can be started after a certain period of time. Moving slowly in accordance with the criteria set by the doctor can help strengthen muscles and increase flexibility.
Stitches and Wound Care: Care should be taken to care for the stitches in the surgical incision or closed surgical sites. Cleaning should be done as recommended by the doctor and stitches should be monitored.
Diet and Fluid Consumption: Light, easily digestible foods should be preferred in the postoperative period. In addition, adequate fluid consumption is also important, but the dietary rules recommended by the doctor should be followed.
Doctor Checks: Postoperative check-ups allow the surgeon to follow the patient's recovery process and update the treatment plan if necessary. These checks should be done at regular intervals.
Patients can complete the recovery process after umbilical hernia surgery in a healthy way by following the specific instructions they will receive from their doctor.
Risks of Umbilical Hernia Surgery
Although umbilical hernia surgery is generally a safe surgical intervention, as with any surgery, it may involve certain risks. These risks can be listed as follows:
Infection: The risk of infection at the surgical incision site is present in umbilical hernia surgery as in any surgery. Compliance with hygiene rules during and after surgery can help reduce this risk.
Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during or after surgery. Careful work by the surgeon and taking appropriate measures to prevent the patient from losing more blood than usual can reduce this risk.
Stitch Problems: Postoperative suture dehiscence or other suture-related problems may occur. This can prolong the healing process and may require additional intervention.
Anesthesia Reactions: Reactions to the anesthesia used may occur. However, careful assessment of the patient's condition by the anesthesiologist minimizes this risk.
Organ Damage: There is a risk of damage to internal organs during surgery. The surgeon's experience and caution can help minimize such risks.
Recurrence: After umbilical hernia surgery, there is a possibility that the hernia may recur. This can vary depending on the techniques used, the patient's condition and other factors.
As with any surgical intervention, there are risks in umbilical hernia surgery. These risks can be minimized depending on the experience of the surgeon, the general health condition of the patient and the precautions taken. Patients should be informed in detail about the potential risks of surgical intervention before surgery.
Side Effects of Umbilical Hernia Surgery
Umbilical hernia surgery is usually a successful and safe procedure, but as with any surgical intervention, it can have some side effects. These side effects can be listed as follows:
Pain and Discomfort: For some time after surgery, pain and discomfort at the surgical site is normal. This decreases over time and is usually manageable.
Bruising and Swelling: After the surgical intervention, there may be bruising and swelling at the operation site. This also improves over time.
Risk of Infection: As with any surgical intervention, there is a risk of infection in umbilical hernia surgery. The surgical area should be kept clean and hygienic and the doctor's recommendations should be followed.
Stitch Problems: Irritation, dehiscence or other suture problems may occur at the stitches. Care instructions specified by the surgeon should be followed meticulously.
Anesthesia Reactions: Sensitivity or reactions to the anesthesia used may occur. This is carefully managed by the anesthesiologist.
Bowel Problems: A temporary slowdown or irregularity in bowel movements may occur after umbilical hernia surgery. This is usually short-term and temporary.
Recurrence: There is always a risk that the hernia may recur after surgery. This may vary depending on the surgical technique, the patient's condition and other factors.
As with any surgical intervention, umbilical hernia surgery also has side effects. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary. By following your doctor's instructions before and after surgery, you can minimize potential risks and have a healthier recovery process.
