What is an Inguinal Hernia?
The abdominal cavity contains intestines and other
structures. These are protected by the abdominal wall which
is made up of four layers. The inner layer is membrane.
The second layer is a wall made of muscle. A layer of fat
separates the muscle from the outer layer of skin.
Weak spots can develop in the layer of muscle resulting in the
contents of the abdomen, along with the inner layer, pushing
through the abdominal wall. This produces a lump which is
called a hernia.
An inguinal hernia is one of the most common types of hernia,
causing a lump and sometime pain in the groin. It occurs in
the inguinal canal which is a narrow passage that blood vessels
pass through in the abdominal wall.
What does this involve?
Inguinal hernias can be repaired using the laparoscopic
(keyhole) technique or by an open cut in the groin.
If your surgeon has recommended an open procedure then the
operation takes about three-quarters of an hour and is usually done
under general anaesthetic.
Your surgeon will make a cut in your groin and remove the
'hernial sac'. They will strengthen the muscle layer with stitches
and will usually insert a synthetic mesh to cover the weak
spot.
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When will I recover?
You should be able to go home the same day or the day
after. And you should increase how much you walk around
of the first few days after the operation. You may need
painkillers to help you.
You should be able to return to work after two to four weeks
depending upon the extent of your surgery and your type of work
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What risks should I know about?
Hernia surgery is a commonly performed procedure although there
are some complications that you should be aware of:
- Developing a lump under the wound which is caused by a
collection of blood or fluid and normally settles over a few
weeks.
- Injury to structures within the hernia which come from the
abdomen. This is rare but may require further surgery.
- Temporary weakness of the leg due to the local anaesthetic
affecting the nerves which supply the thigh. This usually
settles within 24 hours.
- Persistent discomfort or pain in the groin which may involve
further treatment.
- Injury to nerves that supply the skin around the groin which
can lead to a numb patch.
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Circle care
Hernia surgery is carried out at CircleBath, our state of the
art hospital, which provides you with the best facilities and
superb patient care. We have a dedicated team of surgeons and
nurses who will guide you through the process from first
consultation to after-care and will be available to answer any
questions or queries you may have.
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| Consultants |
Location |
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John Budd, Richard Krysztopik, Paul Maddox, Mahesh Pai, Richard Sutton, Mike Williamson
|
Bath
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Nicholas Armitage, Ian Beckingham, Richard I Hall, Roddy Nash, Mike Robinson, Julian Williams
|
Nottingham
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