Hernia Surgery in Abu Dhabi, UAE

What is Hernia & Types of Hernia Surgery

A hernia occurs in the abdomen when abdominal contents, such as part of the intestine or other organs, protrude through a defect or weakness in the abdominal wall muscle. This can happen due to increased intra-abdominal pressure that pushes the contents outward or weakened abdominal wall muscles, which may be caused by factors such as pregnancy, obesity, after surgery or genetic predisposition.
You may notice a lump in the abdomen or a fullness in the groin or scrotum if the hernia extends indirectly into the scrotum. The commonest type of hernia is a groin hernia which is seen as a swelling in the groin with or without discomfort. A hernia can also happen within the abdomen or chest and may not be visible outside as an obvious swelling but may just cause symptoms.

The only definitive cure for a hernia is surgery to reduce the hernia and repair the hole/defect by sutures or by the placement of a mesh.

Hernia surgeries fall into two types, with the choice depending on the individual case:

• Open Procedure: This involves a 7 cm skin incision directly over the hernia site in the abdomen to address (reduce the content back into the abdomen) the hernia content and reinforce the abdominal wall muscles with mesh or sutures depending on the size, type, and nature of hernia. Open surgery is performed in patients who may not tolerate a general anesthesia or in whom there is a hernia recurrence after keyhole surgery.
• Laparoscopic Procedure: A narrow port with a camera is inserted through keyhole incision to visualize the interior of the abdomen and repair the necessary components with 2 other ports. This method offers the advantage of smaller skin incisions and faster recovery.

Why is the Hernia Surgery done?

Hernia surgery mainly aims to achieve three goals regarding addressing the hernia problem:

• Repair and Support: The primary purpose of hernia surgery is to repair the defect in the abdominal wall that allows an organ (often a loop of intestine) to protrude through. Surgery aims to close this opening, reinforcing the weakened area and preventing further herniation. The same applies to hernias inside the abdomen such as a hiatal hernia or internal hernias.
• Reduce Complications: By repairing the hernia, surgeons help reduce the risk of potential complications. Untreated hernias can lead to complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation (a surgical emergency includes the death of herniated tissue due to compromised blood supply).
• Assess Hernia Content: During surgery, doctors carefully assess the hernia content. This assessment is crucial because the herniated tissue may lose its blood supply when pushed into a new space. If the blood flow is compromised, it can lead to tissue damage. Surgeons evaluate the viability of the hernia contents and decide on the best course of action.

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What are the different types of hernia?

Inguinal Hernias:

These are the most common type and occur in the groin area.

Umbilical Hernias:

These occur around the umbilicus (belly button).

Incisional Hernias:

These form at the site of a previous surgical incision.

Sports-Related or Strain-Induced Hernias:

These result from intense physical activity or strain on the abdominal muscles.

Internal Hiatal Hernias:

The stomach herniates through the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity.

Femoral Hernia:

This type of hernia arises below the inguinal region, on the upper inner side of the thigh.

Who needs Hernia Surgery?

Sometimes, hernias can cause serious complications, such as strangulation or gangrene, which require urgent surgery. Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any of the following alarming signs:

• The hernia becomes irreducible (cannot be pushed back into place).
• You experience changes in bowel function, severe constipation, bloody stool, nausea and vomiting, or fever.
• There is discoloration and pain at the hernia site, or the protrusion becomes unexpectedly larger.

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Why Choose Hernia Surgery at Reem Hospital, Abu Dhabi?

At Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi, our General Surgery Department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. We pride ourselves on providing a seamless continuum of care, accompanying you from the moment you step through our doors until you achieve full recovery. Our highly skilled team performs advanced laparoscopic hernia surgeries to ensure rapid recovery and optimal outcomes. Additionally, we collaborate with a wide range of insurance providers and third parties to ensure you feel well-supported and cared for throughout your experience.

Surgical Techniques for hernia Repair

There are several techniques for hernia repair, and your doctor will determine the best approach based on your condition:

• Herniorrhaphy: This technique involves closing the defect by suturing the abdominal wall, which strengthens it after returning the protruded tissues to their proper place.
• Hernioplasty: This method uses a mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall, enabling it to withstand increased intra-abdominal pressure during activities, coughing, or straining. Depending on the type of hernia, it is referred to as umbilical hernioplasty, femoral hernioplasty, inguinal hernioplasty, or hiatal hernioplasty.

Both procedures can be performed using open surgery or laparoscopic techniques.

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Non-Surgical Hernia Treatment Options

The only definitive treatment for a hernia is surgery. However, in the early stages, certain practices can help reduce the hernia’s size and alleviate pain. These methods are effective if the hernia is small, reducible, or if you are awaiting surgery. Under your doctor’s guidance, consider the following steps to manage the condition:

• Wear a specific corset or binder: This can provide support and reduce discomfort.
• Support the hernia: Gently hold the hernia in place while coughing or straining.
• Avoid heavy lifting: Refrain from carrying heavy objects.
• Prevent constipation: Eat plenty of vegetables and incorporate fiber into your diet, while avoiding foods that may cause constipation.
• Exercise properly: Engage in simple exercises but avoid weightlifting or straining to help strengthen the abdominal muscles.

Benefits of Hernia Surgery

Eliminate the hernia, the pain it causes, and the potential complications permanently through surgery.
Achieve a stronger abdominal wall that can withstand increased intra-abdominal pressure.
At Reem Hospital, we offer hernia surgery using advanced laparoscopic techniques. These methods involve:

• Minimal skin incisions, typically 3-4 incisions not exceeding 1 cm in length.
• Less postoperative pain.
• A shorter hospital stays.
• A faster recovery, allowing you to return to your routine and work more quickly.

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How to prepare for Hernia Surgery?

According to your case, your doctor will guide you on when to prepare for surgery, what medications to take, and what to stop. In general, you should follow these tips to help you prepare for the surgery:

• Avoid smoking as early as possible, as smoking delays wound healing.
• Eat healthy foods rich in vegetables to avoid constipation. Fast starting from the night before the surgery and avoid any food after midnight the day before the surgery.
• Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor. Stop taking aspirin and blood thinners two to three days before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding and to help your body heal properly.
• Prepare yourself psychologically for the surgery. We advise you not to come alone; bring someone you trust to help you relax and take care of you before and after the surgery.

What happens during Hernia Surgery?

Before the surgery, you will be prepared for the procedure and then taken to the operating room, where you will receive anesthesia, typically general anesthesia. It can also be done under local anesthesia (Open surgery only) depending on the fitness for a general anesthetic and patient/surgeon choice.

During the surgery, the doctor will first inspect and assess the viability of the protruded tissue. The tissue will then be returned to its original position, and the abdominal defect will be repaired, either with or without the use of a mesh for additional support. The goal is to close the defect while maintaining skin integrity.

If the hernia content is compromised, such as due to a lack of blood flow, the surgeons may need to dissect the affected parts. The objective is to salvage viable sections and reconnect them properly. This may involve returning the content to the abdomen or, in some cases, making necessary adjustments and reconnections.

After the surgery, you will be moved to the recovery room, where you will be monitored for a few hours until you are stable and feeling better. Typically, you will be discharged either on the same day or the following day, depending on the complexity of the case.

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Complications & Risks of Hernia Surgery

If you experience any of the following complications, you should visit your doctor for evaluation:

• Surgical site infection: Fever and redness at the site of the surgery.
• Hematoma or Seroma (in large hernias)
• Moderate to severe abdominal pain: Nausea and vomiting after surgery.
• Chronic groin pain
• Hernia recurrence: In rare cases, the hernia may reoccur sometime after surgery.

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