Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
If you're dealing with a hernia and considering surgery, let us, Apollo Endoscopic & Robotic Obesity Centre, Mumbai, guide you through the laparoscopic (scarless) hernia repair, a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure expertly performed by Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, one of Mumbai's top laparoscopic surgeons.
What Is a Hernia and Why Is It Important to Treat It?
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscles, usually in the abdominal wall. It can result in discomfort, visible bulging, and, in some cases, serious complications if left untreated. Hernias can affect your quality of life, especially if they cause pain or limit physical activities. That's why timely treatment, especially through laparoscopic hernia repair, is crucial.
What Is Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?
Laparoscopic hernia repair is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to fix hernias. Instead of one large cut (incision), small cuts (incisions) about 5mm in size are made through which a tiny camera and specialized surgical tools are inserted. The surgeon uses these to repair the hernia with precision and minimal tissue damage. This method offers faster recovery times, less pain, and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Why Is Laparoscopic Surgery Better Than Open Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery has several advantages over traditional open surgery:
- Smaller Incisions: Only small cuts are made, which leads to quicker healing.
- Reduced Pain: Less tissue damage results in less postoperative pain.
- Faster Recovery: Patients can return to their daily activities more quickly.
- Lower Infection Risk: Smaller incisions mean lower chances of infection.
- Minimal Scarring: The smaller cuts leave little to no visible scars.
Who Needs a Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?
Patients with various types of hernias, such as:
- Inguinal Hernias: Occur in the groin area and are the most common.
- Umbilical Hernias: Located near the belly button.
- Hiatal Hernias: When part of the stomach pushes into the chest area.
- Incisional Hernias: Appear at the site of previous surgeries.
If you experience pain, discomfort, or a visible bulge, it's essential to consult a specialist. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, a hernia specialist in Mumbai, can help diagnose the condition and recommend laparoscopic hernia repair as a treatment.
What are the recent advances in Hernia Repair?
If you're considering hernia repair, you’ll be glad to know that there are several new techniques designed to make recovery faster and reduce complications.
For inguinal hernias, options like
- Transabdominal Preperitoneal Repair (TAPP),
- Totally Extraperitoneal Repair (TEP), and
- Extended Totally Extraperitoneal Repair (ETEP)
All these are minimally invasive and highly effective. They reduce pain and the chance of the hernia coming back.
When it comes to ventral hernias or more complex cases, advanced methods and newer approaches like
- Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) and IPOM-Plus are often used.
- Enhanced view - Totally Extraperitoneal Reive-Stoppa Repair ETEP-RS,
- Enhanced Transabdominal Preperitoneal Approach (ETAAP),
- Transabdominal Retromuscular (TARM), and
- Transversus Abdominis Release (TAR)
They offer even greater precision and quicker recovery times.
With Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, one of the best hernia surgeons in Mumbai, and a renowned expert in laparoscopic hernia repair, you're in safe hands. His experience with these cutting-edge techniques ensures you’ll get top-notch care, a faster recovery, and a smoother return to your everyday activities. If you're looking for the best laparoscopic hernia repair surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Singhi is the trusted choice for many.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before undergoing laparoscopic hernia repair, your surgeon will guide you through a few essential steps:
- Medical Evaluation: A physical exam, along with some imaging tests (such as ultrasounds or CT scans), may be done to confirm the type and size of the hernia.
- Fasting and Medications: You may be required to fast for several hours before the surgery, and your doctor may advise you to stop certain medications temporarily.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: You might be asked to make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or adjusting your diet for optimal healing after surgery.
Following these instructions helps ensure a smooth surgery and recovery.
How Is the Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Done?
Here’s a quick look at how the surgery works:
- Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you'll be asleep throughout.
- Small Cuts (Incisions): Tiny cuts (5mm in size) are made in your abdomen to insert the laparoscope (a small camera) and surgical tools.
- Mesh (scientifically designed synthetic net) Placement: The surgeon gently pushes the herniated tissue back into place and reinforces the weakened area with a mesh to prevent recurrence.
- Closing Incisions: The small cuts (incisions) are then closed with sutures or glue.
The entire procedure typically takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the hernia.
Recovery After Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
Most patients recover quickly from laparoscopic hernia repair:
- Same-Day Discharge: In many cases, patients can go home the same day or the day after the procedure.
- Pain Management: You may experience some discomfort around the incisions, but over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage this.
- Gradual Return to Activities: Light activities can be resumed within a week, but you'll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for several weeks.
- Follow-Up Appointments: It's important to have follow-up visits to ensure proper healing and that the hernia repair is holding up well.
Are There Risks and Complications?
While laparoscopic hernia repair is generally safe, as with any surgery, there are potential risks:
- Infection at the incision sites.
- Bleeding or injury to nearby organs.
- Hernia Recurrence, though rare, can happen, especially in larger or more complex hernias. Choosing an experienced surgeon, such as Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, one of the best robotic surgeons in Mumbai, significantly reduces these risks.
How Will Life Be After Hernia Removal?
The good news is that most people experience significant improvement in their symptoms after the surgery. Once the recovery period is over:
- Return to Normal Activities: You can resume most activities within a few weeks.
- Pain-Free Living: The pain and discomfort from the hernia will be gone, allowing you to live an active life without restrictions.
- No Special Dietary Restrictions: After a full recovery, you can enjoy your normal diet without any issues related to the hernia.
How Much Does Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Cost?
The cost of laparoscopic hernia repair can vary based on:
- Hospital Facilities
- Surgeon’s Expertise
- Insurance
In Mumbai, the procedure is typically covered by health insurance if it is considered medically necessary. However, consulting with Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, a hernia specialist in Mumbai, will give you a better idea based on your individual case and medical needs.
Technological Advances in Laparoscopic Surgery
In recent years, laparoscopic surgery has become even more advanced, thanks to the integration of robotic-assisted technology. Robotic systems allow surgeons to operate with enhanced precision, which improves outcomes. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, known as one of the best robotic surgeons in Mumbai, is highly skilled in these cutting-edge techniques, ensuring safer and more effective hernia repairs.
Conclusion
Laparoscopic hernia repair is a safe, minimally invasive surgery that offers quick recovery, minimal pain, and long-lasting results. If you’ve been diagnosed with a hernia, this procedure could be the solution you need to get back to your daily life pain-free. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, one of the best laparoscopic and robotic surgeons in Mumbai, can provide expert care and ensure the best possible outcome for you at Apollo Endoscopic & Robotic Obesity Centre, Mumbai
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. How long does the surgery take?
The procedure typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type and size of the hernia. - 2. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight?
Most patients can go home the same day, although some may stay overnight for observation. - 3. Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Yes, most insurance plans cover the cost of a laparoscopic and robotic hernia repair, especially if it’s medically necessary. - 4. Can a hernia come back after laparoscopic repair?
Recurrence is rare, especially when the repair is done using mesh. However, factors like obesity and heavy lifting can increase the risk. - 5. How soon can I return to work?
For light, non-strenuous jobs, most people return to work within a week. For physically demanding jobs, you may need to wait 3-4 weeks. - 6. Is laparoscopic hernia repair painful?
Most patients experience less pain compared to open surgery. Any discomfort can typically be managed with mild pain relievers. - 7. What is abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR)?
A complex surgery to rebuild the abdominal wall for large or multiple hernias. - 8. Why is it performed?
To restore strength and function to the abdomen when traditional hernia repair is insufficient. - 9. What are the benefits of robotic surgery?
Superior control and precision, especially in complex cases, reducing recurrence. - 10. Can it be done laparoscopically?
Yes, for less severe cases, but robotic surgery is preferred for larger reconstructions.
