DR TAPAS MISHRA

Category: Hernia

  • Is Surgery Always Required for Hernia?

    Is Surgery Always Required for Hernia?

    Not all hernias require immediate surgery. Small, asymptomatic hernias may be monitored. However, hernias do not resolve on their own and tend to enlarge over time. Surgical repair is the only definitive treatment.

    Indications for Surgery:
    Persistent pain or discomfort

    Increasing size of the hernia

    Complications like incarceration or strangulation

    Types of Hernia Surgery
    As a GI surgeon, I offer both open and minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) options depending on the case.

    1. Open Hernia Repair:
    The traditional approach involving a single incision over the hernia site. The protruding tissue is pushed back, and the weak area is reinforced with stitches and a mesh.

    2. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair:
    A minimally invasive approach using small incisions, a camera, and instruments. Recovery is quicker, and there is less post-operative pain and scarring.

    3. Robotic-Assisted Surgery:
    An advanced form of minimally invasive surgery offering more precision, especially for complex or recurrent hernias.

     

    Post-Surgery Recovery

    • Most patients can go home the same or next day
    • Return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks (depending on the type of surgery)
    • Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few weeks
    • Follow-up is essential to monitor healing and prevent recurrence

     

    Can a Hernia Be Prevented?

    While not all hernias can be prevented, you can reduce your risk with the following:

    • Maintain a healthy weight
    • Exercise to strengthen abdominal muscles
    • Avoid straining during bowel movements
    • Stop smoking (chronic cough weakens the abdominal wall)
    • Use proper lifting techniques

     

    Conclusion

    A hernia might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, but neglecting it can lead to complications. Early diagnosis and timely surgical management offer excellent outcomes and help restore your quality of life.

    If you suspect a hernia or have been diagnosed with one, consult a nearest GI or laparoscopic surgeon for proper evaluation and guidance on treatment options.

  • All That You Need to Know About Hernia

    All That You Need to Know About Hernia

    By Dr. Tapas Mishra, Senior Consultant Advanced Laparoscopic GI Surgeon & Bariatric Surgeon

    A Hernia is one of the most common conditions that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Though it may sound minor initially, if left untreated, a hernia can lead to severe complications and even become life-threatening. As a GI and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon, I believe it’s important to spread awareness about hernias — what they are, why they occur, how to recognize them, and the treatment options available.

    What Is a Hernia?
    A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. The most common hernias occur in the abdominal area, but they can also develop in other parts of the body.

    Common Types of Hernias:

    • Inguinal Hernia: Found in the groin area. Most common, especially in men.
    • Umbilical Hernia: Occurs near the belly button. Seen in infants and adults.
    • Incisional Hernia: Develops at the site of a previous surgical incision.
    • Hiatal Hernia: Part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
    • Femoral Hernia: Less common, seen more in women, occurring near the thigh.
    • Epigastric Hernia: Found between the chest and belly button, due to a weakness in the abdominal wall.

    What Causes a Hernia?

    Hernias are generally caused by a combination of pressure and weakness in the muscle or connective tissue. Common causes include:

    • Heavy lifting
    • Chronic coughing or sneezing
    • Obesity
    • Pregnancy
    • Previous surgeries
    • Aging
    • Congenital defects (present at birth)

    What Are the Symptoms?

    While some hernias are painless and asymptomatic, many present noticeable symptoms:

    • A visible bulge or lump in the abdomen or groin
    • Pain or discomfort, especially when bending, coughing, or lifting
    • A feeling of heaviness or pressure
    • Weakness or burning sensation at the site
    • In severe cases (strangulated hernia): nausea, vomiting, fever, and inability to pass stools or gas — this is a medical emergency

    How Is a Hernia Diagnosed?

    Most hernias can be diagnosed with a physical examination. However, in some cases, imaging tests such as:

    • Ultrasound
    • CT scan
    • MRI may be recommended to confirm the type, size, and extent of the hernia.