Hernia repair

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Hiatal hernia - X-ray

Inguinal hernia

Femoral hernia

Inguinal hernia repair - series

Umbilical hernia repair - series

Diaphragmatic hernia repair - series

Hiatal hernia repair - series

Overview

Recovery

Risks

Hernia repair

Alternative Names:

Herniorrhaphy
Expectations after surgery:

Most hernias can be repaired with a simple operation with minimal risks to the patient. Pain and swelling are relieved, and the risk of a strangulated hernia is eliminated.

Convalescence:

Small children have no restrictions following routine hernia repair. Older children should avoid contact sports for at least 3 weeks -- a blow to the incision could burst the skin closure or disrupt the repair (less common).

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Adults should avoid heavy lifting or straining for several weeks (usually 6 to 8) after surgery. Such activity can disrupt the hernia repair.

Avoid bathing for at least 5 days after the operation. Soaking may separate the skin tapes and the wound could break open. Sponge bathing for infants and showering for older children are permitted the day after surgery. The wound tapes should be carefully patted dry after showering.

Expect complete recovery from surgery in about 2 to 4 weeks.