Hernia and Abdominal Pain

Abdominal wall hernias can cause a variety of symptoms.  The most common symptoms are pain and swelling in the groin area from an inguinal hernia.  These hernias are common and can cause complications when intestine gets trapped or ‘incarcerated”.  This can lead to gangrene of the intestine.  To avoid these complications, symptomatic hernias should be evaluated for repair by a general surgeon.

Most hernias can be repaired as a day surgery procedure.  Almost all types of hernias are repaired with a mesh prosthesis.  This adds strength to the repair and lowers the incidence of recurrence.   Preoperative evaluation with lab tests and xrays is often needed.  There are a wide variety of types and techniques of hernia repair that your surgeon may offer to you.

Recovery from hernia surgery can be from 5-10 days depending on how large the hernia is and whether or not it is on both sides, or bilateral.  Release to strenuous activity is usually limited for a longer period of time.  Asking all your questions and feeling comfortable with your surgeon is extremely important in planning your hernia surgery.

This Blog should not be considered medical advice.  Only after establishing a doctor-patient relationship can medical advice be given. If you have questions about your medical condition please contact your primary care provider.

Scott McDearmont, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a board certified general surgeon practicing at Medical Center of Lewisville and Baylor Surgicare in Lewisville, www.scottmcdearmont.com