Incisional hernia

 

What Is An Incisional Hernia?

The supporting layer called fascia, that is located in the abdominal wall and that prevents the intestines from bulging outwards from the abdomen is cut during abdominal surgeries and stitched at the end of the surgery. However, heavy lifting, overexerting, straining might cause these stitches to open up and a swelling under the abdominal skin causing intra-abdominal organs, especially small intestines to bulge out. This condition is called incisional hernia.

What are the Symptoms of Incisional Hernia?

• Swelling and pain in the old incisional site
• Swelling that increases when standing, straining, coughing and gets lost when lying flat
• Only pain in early stage hernias

Why does Incisional Hernia Occur?

It occurs as a result of opening up the stitches placed in the supporting layer that prevents the intestines from bulging outwards the stomach, in the previous surgery. This layer might be opened up due to straining, heavy lifting, coughing, demanding sports.

Can Incisional Hernia Be Treated with Medication?

It is not possible to shrink, remedy, remove incisional hernia with medication. On the contrary, waiting can cause the hernia to grow. The only treatment is surgery.

Is Incisional Hernia Dangerous?

If the intestines or organs bulging through the incisional hernia are trapped in the hernia sac, a condition called strangulated hernia occurs and might cause conditions leading up to intestinal necrosis and posing fatal risks.

How are Incisional Hernia Surgeries Performed?

Incisional hernia surgeries can be performed by open and closed methods. It might be recommended to use a mesh patch in some patients, based on the hernia and the patient’s condition.

What is the Mesh Patch Used in Incisional Hernia Surgeries?

It is a product based on the principle of supporting the weakened supporting layer that causes hernia and enabling the body to form a new supporting layer against this mesh patch.

Are Stitches and the Mesh Patches Used in Incisional Hernia Surgeries Important?

Given that some stitches and the mesh patch used in incisional hernia surgeries will remain in your body for a lifetime, it is obvious that their quality and structural characteristics are very important. Unfortunately, as in all sectors, there are Chinese products in the market in health sector as well and they might pose a threat against your health. You can learn the brand, structure, place of manufacture and quality of the material to be used in your surgery, from your doctor before the surgery.

Does Incisional Hernia Recur?

When the appropriate surgery technique is applied by an experienced surgeon in incisional hernia and when the patient abides by the doctor’s warnings, the risk of recurrence is below 1%.

When is It Possible to Continue Daily Life After the Surgery?

1 day after surgery, you can start your daily activities.

Will the stitches be removed after surgery?

Due to our stitching techniques and dressing methods we use for the surgical site in our own clinic, dressing for only 2 days is required. After that, there is no need for dressing and you can take a shower after 2 days.