“Classic incision” with mesh
“Classic incision” with mesh
Operation
– Indirect inguinal hernia
– Direct inguinal hernia
– Femoral hernia
Surgery is performed with a classic skin incision. The prosthesis / mesh is placed behind the first superficial muscle (external oblique muscle) in the inguinal canal. Attached to the ilio-inguinal ligament.
The main advantage of this technique, is the possibility to perform the procedure under regional anesthesia or under epidural anesthesia. Epidural anesthesia involves an injection into the lower back. Through which the lower part of the body is numbed, but the patient continues to breath on his own without a breathing machine.
This technique is indicated for patients whose general condition does not permit general anesthesia and for patients who refuse general anesthesia.
Epidural anesthesia is not indicated if the patient is taking anticoagulant medication that cannot be stopped.
A prosthesis is made of polypropylene with the following characteristics :
Over time, scar tissue forms through and around the openings in the mesh/prosthesis, causing it to be incorporated into the adjacent tissue. This forms a mechanical barrier against pressure and prevents hernia recurrences.
If the prosthesis infects and does not respond to antibiotic treatment, it may be necessary to remove the prosthesis / mesh.
If a large hernia is removed from the scrotum or if part of the hernia sac remains in the scrotum, the void left after treatment of the hernia may be filled with abdominal fluid (seroma) and blood.
The fluid collection can be emptied by punctures during the consultation, rarely the fluid has to be removed surgically.
Chronic pain after 1 year: 2 – 3% of patients suffer in daily life.
In normal circumstances, pain is easily controlled with paracetamol (Dafalgan®) NSAIDs (anti-inflammatories) or morphine (Tradonal®…) and pain symptoms diminish over time :
If certain symptoms seem abnormal to you contact your doctor
If this is not possible, you can contact avec your surgeon.
If you are unable to contact your GP or your surgeon, go to the emergency department at St Elizabeth Hospital in Uccle.
You cannot have erectile dysfunction after inguinal hernia surgery. The nerves for erections are not located in the operation area.
If the blood supply to the testicle or the duct that transports sperm from the testicle to the penis is injured, the testicle may become sterile.
Inguinal hernia surgery does not affect a future pregnancy. In inguinal hernia surgery, the reproductive organs are not in the operation area.