Unilateral Open Inguinal Hernia (Less than 10 cm Reducible)
Cost: $3,930 USD
Hospitalization duration: 2 days
What does the treatment for a unilateral open inguinal hernia (less than 10 cm, reducible) consist of?
Surgical treatment for a reducible unilateral inguinal hernia smaller than 10 cm is a procedure designed to repair a defect in the abdominal wall on only one side of the groin. This type of hernia can be temporarily pushed back into the abdomen, but requires surgery to prevent complications such as entrapment or strangulation of the affected tissues.
The surgery is performed using an open technique, where the surgeon makes an incision in the area of the hernia to access the defect. The abdominal wall is then repaired using surgical mesh that reinforces the area and prevents future recurrences. This procedure is effective and offers a relatively quick recovery.
Includes
- Medical Team
The intervention is performed by a team specialized in general surgery, ensuring a safe and effective procedure to repair the unilateral hernia. - 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 anesthesia and the safety of the procedure. - Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
A detailed evaluation performed by an internist and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to ensure that the patient is in adequate condition to undergo the intervention. - Postoperative visits
Follow-up after surgery to monitor recovery, assess healing, and ensure that there are no complications.
Preparing for surgery
For the treatment of a unilateral reducible inguinal hernia, 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 your doctor to minimize the risk of bleeding.
- Adequate hygiene of the groin area, following your doctor’s instructions to reduce the risk of infection.
Recovery
Recovery from this procedure is rapid, although caution is required to ensure proper healing. Recommendations include:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for 4 to 6 weeks to allow proper healing of the surgical repair.
- Eat a high-fiber diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation, which can put pressure on the treated area.
- Wear abdominal support or comfortable clothing, if indicated, to minimize postoperative discomfort.
Most patients can resume light activities within a week, although they should avoid significant exertion until recovery is complete.
Risks and Complications
Although surgery to repair a reducible unilateral inguinal hernia is safe, there may be associated risks, such as:
- Infection at the surgical site, which may require antibiotic treatment.
Persistent pain in the groin area, known as postoperative groin pain syndrome. - Recurrence of the hernia, although this is rare if the procedure is performed correctly.
- Bruising or fluid buildup in the treated area, which usually resolves over time.