Abdominal and hernia surgery Valais Romand Hospital

This is a common medical procedure used to repair a hernia, a condition in which an organ or tissue protrudes through an opening or weakened area in the muscles or the tissues surrounding the muscles. This procedure is usually performed by a surgeon specialising in this field and may vary depending on the type and severity of the hernia.

The abdominal wall plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal structure and function of the abdominal cavity. It is composed of several layers, including the skin, muscles and fascia, which work together to protect the internal organs and maintain intra-abdominal pressure. However, due to various factors such as age, pregnancy, obesity, previous surgery or injury, the abdominal wall can become weakened, leading to the development of hernias and other conditions.

Abdominal wall surgery aims to repair and strengthen the weakened or damaged abdominal wall. There are several types of hernia that can be repaired, the most common being inguinal, umbilical or incisional hernias (hernias resulting from previous surgery).

With advances in surgical technology, the procedure has become safer and less invasive, offering patients faster recovery times and more satisfactory results. If you think you may have a hernia, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to assess your condition and discuss appropriate treatment options, including hernia surgery.

Hernia surgery can be performed in various ways, including via an open or laparoscopic approach. During open surgery, an incision is made in the area of the hernia, allowing the surgeon to access the hernia directly. The herniated organ or tissue is then pushed back into place, and the weakened area is reinforced using sutures or a reinforcement material such as synthetic mesh. Once the repair is complete, the incision is closed using sutures or staples.

Laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, is a less invasive procedure involving small incisions and the use of a camera and small surgical instruments inserted through small incisions in the abdomen, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the abdomen on a screen and repair the hernia by placing synthetic mesh or performing other necessary repair techniques. The benefits of laparoscopic surgery may include a faster recovery, smaller scars and less post-operative pain compared to open surgery.

Before undergoing parietal surgery, patients are assessed by a multidisciplinary team comprising surgeons, anaesthetists and other healthcare professionals. Pre-operative tests, such as blood tests and imaging scans, may be carried out to assess the extent of the condition and plan the appropriate surgical procedure. Patients are also informed of the risks and benefits of the surgery, and measures are taken to minimise potential complications.

During hernia surgery, the patient is usually under general anaesthesia, meaning they are asleep throughout the procedure. The time required for the surgery may vary depending on the complexity of the hernia and the surgical technique used. After the operation, the patient is closely monitored during the post-operative recovery period. The length of recovery can vary from person to person, but most patients can go home on the day of the operation or the following day. It is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity for several weeks to allow for proper healing.