What is a hernia?
A hernia is a defect or hole between two anatomic areas that allows tissue to move from one area into another when pressure is applied on either side. Some people are born with a hernia or they can appear suddenly from wear and tear over time. A hernia can also become incarcerated (stuck out) orstrangulated (choked off), resulting in a potentially life-threatening condition requiring emergency medical care.
Will I feel a bulge if I have a hernia?
Most hernias come with a bulge, but smaller or developing ones may present with pain or discomfort and no bulge. Some hernias are internal such as hiatal hernias where the stomach migrates up into the chest through a hole in the diaphragm.
What is a sports hernia?
Sometimes called a dancer’s hernia, soccer hernia, or athletic pubalgia, it’s a small tear in a ligament in the groin that causes severe pain without a bulge and requires an ultrasound or MRI to detect.
Do I have to get my hernia fixed and will I need surgery?
Your options range from watchful waiting and use of a truss or pad to hold the hernia in place, to open surgical and laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted repairs. The hernia does not heal by itself and will not be cured without surgical repair since it’s a physical hole or defect, in most cases.
There are many types of hernias and I get confused | Do I need a hernia specialist?
Yes, there are many types of hernias and variations, plus each patient is unique. Most general surgeons specialize in one or two types of hernia repairs, and this one-size-fits all approach is not always optimal. A hernia specialist routinely sees and repairs all types of hernias, from common to complex. The specialist is up-to-date on the most recent hernia research, participates in national education, and reports their outcomes to a national quality database.
What’s the recovery like from a hernia surgery?
Most of my patients are back to their active lives very quickly, especially when we are using a minimally invasive technique. Patient recovery times are based on factors ranging from the severity of the hernia to the chosen treatment plan. To allow adequate time for healing, strenuous activity is avoided for 4-6 weeks.
I hear a lot about mesh. Is it safe?
Many hernias do not require mesh. When appropriate for certain hernias, mesh reinforces the body’s own tissues and can decrease the risk for reoccurrence especially in patients whose lifestyle activities will put large pressures or tension on the area of the repair or patients with medical conditions that inhibit healing. There have been significant advances in the materials and techniques in the use of mesh and my patients are getting excellent results with positive outcomes.
Dr. Mike Mastrangelo of Bend is the only surgeon in Central Oregon specializing in hernia repair and is fellowship-trained in advanced laparoscopy and minimally invasive surgery. You may contact him at 541-383-2200 or www.bendherniacenter.com.
