Hernia
A hernia is a very common condition. It is the inside trying to get out. Hernias can occur around the umbilicus or in the groin. The commonest hernia is an inguinal hernia occurring in the inguinal region. The next commonest form of hernia is a femoral hernia occurring alongside the femoral artery, again in the groin. Para-umbilical hernias occur at the umbilicus and then there are mid line hernias, sometimes associated with previous incisions, called incisional hernias.
Hernias can get stuck. If they contain bowel, the bowel can become obstructed and then strangulate.
People with hernias are usually advised to have them repaired. The best repairs now involve the insertion of a mesh. The mesh acts like a scaffolding and allows the anterior abdominal wall to heal soundly.
We employ all the best techniques for repairing hernias. All the techniques require some form of anaesthetic, either local or general. The hernias can be repaired using a mini-incision or a true keyhole technique. The choice will depend on where the hernia is and often how large it is. Following a hernia repair it takes 6 weeks for the tissues to become fully healed. During the 6 week period it is possible to drive a car, take light exercise and resume normal lightweight activities.