No, hernia surgery typically does not require you to be put under general anesthesia. In most cases, hernia surgery can be performed with a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around the hernia. Occasionally, if the hernia is very large or if other circumstances are present, the doctor might recommend general anesthesia, or having you put to sleep, during the hernia repair.
The final decision about what type of anesthesia to use for hernia surgery ultimately lies with your program’s surgical team, as they will consider what is best for you and your health, based on your medical condition.
How long does a hernia surgery take?
Hernia surgery typically takes between 1-2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of hernia repair being performed. Some hernia surgeries may be done with minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery, which may take less time than traditional open techniques.
During the surgery, the hernia sac is usually removed and the weak or damaged muscle wall is repaired. If the hernia is small enough, it may also be closed with stitches or patches. After the procedure, the patient may be required to stay in the hospital for a few days to recover.
This is typically done to monitor any potential complications.
Is hernia surgery major surgery?
Yes, hernia surgery is considered a major surgery. Hernia surgery involves repairing and strengthening the weakened area of the abdominal wall which can be painful and can involve a lengthy recovery.
During hernia surgery, the surgeon may use stitches, mesh, staples or glue to patch the area, which can require a general anesthetic. There may also be side effects associated the the operation such as pain, infection and tissue damage.
Depending on the type of hernia and patient health, recovery can take from days to weeks, and may involve prescribed pain killers, special instructions for care and specific activities that should be avoided.
Can you walk after a hernia surgery?
Yes, it is possible to walk after a hernia surgery. However, there are certain restrictions that your doctor or surgeon may advise you to follow. It is important to first understand the type of hernia surgery you had and the prognosis from your doctor before beginning any activity.
In general, it is important to gradually ease back into your daily activities as you recover. After a hernia surgery, you should plan on taking a minimum of two to three weeks off before returning to walking and other activities of daily life.
Your doctor may give you instructions to increase the distances gradually at a comfortable pace with proper breathing.
It is best to practice a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition for optimal recovery. It is recommended to use a walker or cane for the first few weeks to provide additional stability and balance. Additionally, avoid activities that result in physical strain or trauma such as heavy lifting, carrying heavy objects, or strenuous exercise.
If you experience any pain, bleeding, swelling, or discomfort, it is best to seek medical advice. It is also important to listen to your body as you start to get back into your routine. If you experience symptoms that may be related to the hernia surgery, contact your doctor immediately.
Why does hernia surgery hurt so much?
Hernia surgery can be extremely painful, depending on the severity, size, and location of the hernia. The procedure typically involves making an incision in the hernia site, pushing the hernia back into its original position, and then attaching a surgical mesh over the area to help strengthen the muscle wall that was torn or weak.
Since hernia surgery often involves making an incision, this can cause scarring and can lead to significant discomfort or pain afterwards.
In addition, even with the use of anesthesia and pain medications, some people will still experience discomfort and pain after surgery due to the swelling associated with the underlying tissue damage of the hernia itself.
For those who have large or complex hernias, the stretching and manipulation of the underlying tissue can lead to considerable swelling and inflammation. This can cause considerable pain and discomfort, which can last for several days or even weeks after the surgery, with the intensity of the pain depending on the severity and size of the hernia.
In some cases, the pain can become so severe that additional medications may be required to there help provide adequate relief. It is important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects that can come with taking pain medications, and to talk to your surgeon or doctor to determine what is best for your situation.
How long will I be off work after a hernia operation?
The amount of time you need to take off work for a hernia operation will vary depending on the type of hernia and the severity of the condition. Generally, mild cases may only require you to take a few days off to recover, while more serious hernias may require an extended period.
Talk to your doctor or surgeon about your specific recovery timeline and what type of activities you can do during the recuperation period.
In general, you may expect to take anywhere from one to two weeks off work for a hernia operation. During this time, you will need to rest, limit any physical activities, and ensure that you are taking all prescribed medications to speed the healing process.
If necessary, you may arrange to work from home or adjust your work schedule temporarily to accommodate your recovery time.
Once your doctor gives you the all-clear to resume regular activity, you can gradually increase the intensity of physical activity, such as returning to a full-time job schedule. In some cases, you may need to wear a supportive truss or garment during the healing process, which could take an additional two to four weeks to complete.
No matter what type of hernia you have, it is important to properly rest in order to allow your body time to heal. Everyone recovers differently, so make sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
