Hernia Surgery
A hernia repair involves surgically correcting hernias by repositioning displaced tissues and reinforcing the weakened area to prevent them from recurring.
What is a hernia and how are they caused?
A hernia is like a tear or gap in the body's internal "holding wall," much like a breach in a dam. Our muscles and connective tissues act like walls that keep our internal organs in place. However, when there's a weak spot or damage in these walls—perhaps due to strain from heavy lifting, persistent coughing, or even natural wear and tear over time—organs or tissues can start to push through, creating a bulge. This bulge is the hernia, similar to how water might start to push through a crack in a dam.
What are the different types of hernia?
Each type of hernia has its own characteristics. The likelihood of developing a certain hernia is influenced by factors such as age, gender, physical strain, and previous abdominal operations. Hiatus hernias are discussed separately.
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This can occur after abdominal surgery, where the intestine pushes through the incision scar or the surrounding, weakened tissue. It is more likely in individuals who are active too soon after surgery, have a higher body weight, or have had multiple surgeries in the same area.
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The most common type of hernia. It occurs when intestines push through a weak spot or tear in the lower abdominal wall into the inguinal canal. It is more common in men due to the natural weakness in this area resulting from the descent of the testicles during development.
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Less common than inguinal hernias, femoral hernias occur when tissues protrude into the groin at the top of the inner thigh. This type is more common in women.
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This type occurs when a part of the small intestine passes through the abdominal wall near the navel. In adults, it is more prevalent among women, especially following multiple pregnancies or in those with a higher body weight, which increases pressure on the abdominal wall.
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This type happens when fatty tissue pushes through the abdominal area between the navel and the lower part of the sternum. Epigastric hernias are more common in men and can occur at any age, often linked to a higher body weight or frequent straining.
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This rare type of hernia occurs along the outer edge of the rectus abdominis muscle. It can happen at any age but is most common in middle-aged and elderly individuals. It does not have a strong gender bias but is often linked to a higher body weight and physical exertion.
What are the symptoms of a hernia?
Hernia symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and severity but commonly include:
A noticeable bulge or lump in the affected area, which may become more apparent when straining or standing up.
Associated pain or discomfort
A feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, groin, or scrotum.
The primary concern with hernias is the risk of abdominal contents, like fat or intestines, protruding through a weak spot in the muscle and becoming trapped (incarcerated). If the blood supply is cut off, it leads to strangulation, a severe and dangerous complication that demands urgent surgical intervention. Patients experiencing this often suffer significant pain around the hernia bulge and can become very ill.
Do hernias need to be repaired?
Many individuals live comfortably with a hernia and may never require surgical repair.
When surgery is undertaken it is often to alleviate discomfort, prevent potential complications such as incarceration and strangulation, and to improve quality of life. Repairing a hernia can also restore the normal appearance of the affected area, addressing any cosmetic concerns.
What does surgery entail?
The principles of surgery are to return the herniated tissue back to its proper place and reinforce the weakened area to prevent recurrence. This often involves the use of sutures, mesh, or a combination of both to provide additional support and strength. There are various surgical methods employed in hernia repair, each tailored to the type of hernia, its location, and the patient's overall health and preferences.
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In this approach, the surgeon makes an incision over the hernia site, pushes the protruding organ or tissue back into place, and then repairs the weakened area, often using a synthetic mesh to reinforce it.
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This minimally invasive technique involves making several small incisions through which surgical tools and a tiny camera are inserted. The surgeon then repairs the hernia from the inside, guided by the images from the camera. This approach typically results in less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to daily activities, but it may not be suitable for all types of hernias.
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Complex hernia repairs involve treating hernias that are either very large, recurrent (have come back after previous surgery), or are located in difficult-to-reach areas. These surgeries require a high level of surgical expertise and often involve more advanced techniques, such as component separation or the use of meshes, to reinforce the weakened area effectively. The approach to complex hernia repair is highly individualised, taking into account the patient's overall health, the specifics of the hernia, and any previous hernia repairs. Due to the complexity, these repairs may have longer recovery times and a higher level of post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcomes and minimise the risk of recurrence.
Individuals who have surgery for groin hernias (inguinal and femoral) or umbilical hernias can often leave hospital on the same day and quickly resume most everyday activities, but they should avoid lifting heavy objects for four weeks.
What is the role of ACC in hernia surgery?
There are two main instances in which you may be eligible to have the cost of your surgery covered in part or in full by ACC. In such cases we submit a claim to ACC for the cost to repair the hernia. Such cases are:
Hernias that develop following a particular incident.
For example, slipping while carrying a heavy object followed by immediate pain and the development of a lump. See, Primary abdominal wall hernias, including groin hernias
Hernias that develop at the site of a previous surgical incision.
How much does a hernia repair cost?
The cost of hernia surgery varies widely and is dependent on various factors such as,
Type, size and location of the hernia.
How many hernias are being repaired at one time.
The surgical approach used.
Prior medical history.
Requirement for imaging (ultrasound or CT).
If you send us an inquiry with details about your case, we can provide you with an estimated cost for the surgery based on your specific situation.
A GP referral isn't required to schedule an appointment; however, for those intending to use insurance, it's advisable to verify with your insurer first, as they may require a GP referral or prior authorisation before you proceed.