Incisional Hernia
Repair of hernias developing at or near a previous abdominal surgical incision, using open or laparoscopic techniques with abdominal-wall reinforcement when appropriate.
Key benefits
Open & laparoscopic options
Mesh reinforcement when appropriate
Complex & recurrent hernia assessment
Individualised abdominal-wall repair
Overview
An Incisional hernia develops when part of the abdominal wall becomes weak at or near the site of a previous surgical incision. This weakness can allow fat or intestine to push through, producing a swelling or bulge around the old surgical scar.
Incisional hernias can develop months or even years after abdominal surgery and may gradually increase in size. They can cause discomfort, heaviness, pain or difficulty with physical activity.
Dr. Jay Pitroda provides surgical treatment for incisional hernias using Open and Laparoscopic techniques. Depending on the size, location and complexity of the defect, repair may include mesh reinforcement and abdominal-wall reconstruction.
The goal is to restore the strength and function of the abdominal wall while providing a safe and personalized treatment plan.
What to expect
Your assessment begins with a detailed consultation and physical examination of the previous surgical scar and abdominal wall. Imaging such as ultrasound or CT may be recommended for larger, recurrent or complex hernias to understand the size and location of the defect and plan treatment.
Dr. Jay Pitroda will discuss the available treatment options, including Open and Laparoscopic approaches, and explain the expected benefits, limitations, risks, hospital stay and recovery before surgery. Complex and recurrent incisional hernias require individualized surgical planning.
Recovery
Recovery after incisional hernia repair depends on the size and complexity of the hernia, the surgical technique used and your overall health. You will usually be encouraged to mobilize early after surgery, with activity gradually increased as your recovery progresses.
You will receive specific instructions regarding wound care, medications, activity, lifting restrictions and follow-up. Recovery timelines can vary significantly between smaller and complex abdominal-wall repairs.
Common questions
Healing of an abdominal incision may result in an area of reduced strength in the abdominal wall. Several patient and surgical factors can contribute to the development of an incisional hernia.
It usually appears as a swelling or bulge at or near a previous surgical scar. The bulge may become more prominent when standing, coughing, straining or lifting.
Some hernias cause little or no discomfort. Others may cause pain, pressure, heaviness or an enlarging swelling, especially during physical activity.
Not every incisional hernia requires immediate surgery. The decision depends on symptoms, size, progression, abdominal-wall characteristics and the overall clinical situation.
Mesh reinforcement is commonly used in many incisional hernia repairs to strengthen the abdominal wall. Whether mesh is appropriate and which technique is used depends on the individual hernia.
Selected incisional hernias can be treated using minimally invasive techniques. The appropriate approach depends on the size, location and complexity of the hernia, previous operations and patient factors.
Abdominal-wall reconstruction involves restoring the structure and strength of the abdominal wall in larger, complex or recurrent hernias. The specific technique depends on the individual defect.
Recovery varies considerably. Smaller repairs may have a relatively quicker recovery, while larger or complex abdominal-wall reconstructions can require a longer period before returning to strenuous activity.
A suddenly painful or tender swelling that becomes firm or cannot be pushed back, especially when associated with vomiting, abdominal distension or difficulty passing stool or gas, requires urgent medical assessment.
Considering this procedure?
Book a consultation with Dr. Pitroda to discuss whether it's right for you.
