Bilateral Open Inguinal Hernia (Less than 10 cm Reducible)
Cost: $5,200 USD
Hospitalization duration: 2 days
What does Bilateral Open Inguinal Hernia Treatment (Less than 10 cm Reducible) consist of?
Surgical treatment for a bilateral reducible inguinal hernia smaller than 10 cm is a procedure intended to repair protrusions of abdominal contents (intestines or fatty tissue) through a defect in the abdominal wall on both sides of the groin. These hernias are considered reducible, meaning they can be temporarily pushed back in, but their surgical repair is essential to prevent complications such as entrapment or strangulation.
The surgery is performed using an open technique, in which the surgeon makes incisions over the affected areas to access the hernial defect. A surgical mesh is then placed to reinforce the abdominal wall and prevent recurrences. This procedure is ideal for patients with small, reducible hernias on both sides.
Includes
- Medical Team
The intervention is performed by a team specialized in general surgery, guaranteeing a precise and effective procedure to repair both hernias.
- Laboratory
Includes complete pre-surgical studies to evaluate the patient’s general health and ensure that he or she is in optimal condition for surgery.
- Office
Chest imaging examination using a telescopic chest x-ray to rule out respiratory or cardiac problems that may affect the safety of the procedure and anesthesia.
- Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
Detailed evaluation performed by an internist and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to ensure that the patient is in adequate condition for the intervention.
- Postoperative visits
Follow-up after surgery to monitor healing, assess patient recovery, and detect possible complications.
Preparing for surgery
For bilateral reducible inguinal hernia repair, your medical team may recommend:
- Fasting for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery, especially if general anesthesia will be used.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, such as blood thinners, as directed by the physician, to minimize the risk of bleeding.
- Adequate hygiene of the groin area, following medical instructions to reduce the risk of postoperative infections.
Recovery
Recovery from this procedure is relatively quick, but the patient must take certain precautions to ensure proper healing. Recommendations include:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for 4 to 6 weeks to allow incisions and internal repairs to heal properly.
- Wear comfortable clothing and abdominal support, if indicated, to reduce postoperative discomfort.
- Eat a high-fiber diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation and reduce pressure on the treated area.
Most patients can resume light activities in 1 to 2 weeks, but should avoid heavy lifting until medically cleared.
Risks and Complications
Although surgical treatment for a reducible bilateral inguinal hernia is safe, there are some potential risks, such as:
- Infection at the surgical site, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
- Persistent pain in the groin area, known as postoperative groin pain syndrome.
- Recurrence of the hernia, although this is rare if recovery recommendations are followed.
- Bruising or fluid buildup in the treated area, which usually resolves without further intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so the patient does not feel pain during surgery. There may be some discomfort in the treated area after the procedure, but this is controlled with painkillers.
Initial healing is usually complete in 1 to 2 weeks, but full recovery from internal repairs may take up to 6 weeks.
The risk of recurrence is low if the technique is appropriate and the patient follows the recovery recommendations. However, factors such as excessive physical effort or weight gain can increase the risk.