My hernia has returned. Should I have it operated on again?

Question

Hello doctor,

I underwent a hernia operation six months ago. But then, I got a similar pain, and I was scanned. A small hernia was detected again.

Should I get it operated on or wait for some time?

Please give me a suggestion.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your records (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

You have radiological evidence of a hernia. The worrisome finding in the report is that the opening is a small one with intestinal loops inside. It is safer to get surgery done. Otherwise, we could have taken it lightly. I can understand your difficulty, especially in getting another surgery done, which is not very far apart from the last one.

If you are waiting for a few months, you have to check on the hernia daily.

Whether it is easy to go in when lying down, if not, you should obtain immediate medical attention.
If you have symptoms like sudden pain, vomiting, etc. If yes, get it operated on at the earliest.
Avoid strenuous physical activities like carrying heavy objects, leaning forward, lifting children, etc.
If you have a cough or need to strain, keep a finger over the hernia defect to avoid the contents from coming out of your belly.

If no such issues as mentioned above are present, you can take some time. But you should be careful and can time the surgery according to your convenience.

Do not get worried. Relax and choose a plan.

I hope your doubts are cleared. If not, please feel free to consult as needed.

Take care.