If you think you might have a hernia, it’s important to see a doctor immediately. A hernia is a protrusion of muscle tissue or an organ. If you see a bulge in your abdomen, this could mean you have a hernia. If left untreated, a hernia can cause a lot of pain and become more difficult to correct. Your doctor may recommend hernia surgery in Reading, PA. In most cases, the surgery is a very simple procedure and will repair the hernia.
Because of the millions of people who have needed hernia surgery every year, surgical techniques have come a long way and the surgeries are become easier with less complications. Hernia surgery can now be done with a laparoscope. This is a tiny tube that is inserted into a small incision on the body. The laparoscope has a camera on the end of it and is transmitted on to a television screen above the operating table. This gives the surgeon a better view than traditional ways of operating. The picture is high resolution and magnified so the doctor’s precision is greatly improved. Sometimes the surgeon will have a robot assisted hand that can perform most of the movements. The surgeon controls the hand from a computer screen. This allows the doctor to make precise measurements and movements during the surgery. The great thing about using a laparoscope for hernia surgery is that there is only a couple of small scars left afterwards.
Another type of hernia surgery in Reading is open hemiorrhaphy. This is where the surgeon makes one big incision and corrects the hernia with surgical tools and his hands. There is no laparoscopy involved in an open hemiorrhaphy. The type of surgery that your doctor chooses for you depends on the type of hernia you have and what he feels will be best to repair the hernia.
No matter what type of surgery you have to repair the hernia, there is a recovery period afterwards of about 4 weeks. You should not lift anything over 10 lbs and this includes children. You must also be very careful not to lift your hands over your head or stretch them because this could tear your hernia and you may need hernia surgery in Reading, PA all over again. Don’t run, jog, or do vigorous exercise for at least 3 weeks after your surgery. If you need help around the house, ask a friend or family member if they can assist you in daily activities such as laundry, dishes, vacuuming, etc.