What is Hernia?

A hernia happens when an internal organ or tissue in the body protrudes (bulges) through a soft or weak point that houses it. When left untreated a hernia may lead to series of other complications. For instance hiatal  may result in other symptoms like severe acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

It is important to note that Some forms of hernia may require surgical treatment while others may require medications and other non invasive procedures but this only  depends on the severity and should only be determined after proper examination at the hospital. 

What are the types of Hernia?

Certain types of Hernia are gender specific that is to say there are some that will only affect men whilst there are also some Hernias that will only affect women.  Hernias may also be grouped as congenital (present from birth) or acquired overtime due to various factors.

Inguinal Hernias: These often occur in the lower abdomen very close to the pubic area. They occur as a result of the weakening of the internal Inguinal ring.

Femoral Hernias: They are also known as Groin hernias  and are more likely to occur in women  though a small percentage of men may also experience it. A weakness in the lower groin causes the intestinal sac to slip out of position. Once this diagnosed, immediate repair surgery is highly recommended to prevent any further complications.

Hiatal Hernias: They are caused as a result in the weakness in the muscle which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. This form of hernia may lead to acid reflux into the oesophagus from the stomach. 

Umbilical Hernias: They are caused when a section of the intestine passes through the abdominal wall near the navel. it mostly affects newborn children.

Hernia symptoms

Symptoms may vary with respect to the type and location of the hernia. For instance in the case of  hernia occuring within the stomach cavity, you  may  experience symptoms like distension in the abdomen, tenderness, abdominal pains and discomfort in the abdomen, ulcers,bleeding, narrowing of the esophagus. while in a case of  inguinal hernia, a person may experience pains and discomfort in the groin region.

However the most general symptoms that may be a cause for concern are;

-An unsual distension (protusion) 

-abnormal swelling

-tenderness in the area of concern

-unusual discomforts within the area

What causes Hernia?

Hernias are mainly caused by a loosening, weakening and in most cases opening of the muscle that houses a particular organ / tissue cauisng them to push through the weak spot. Some are usually congenital (present at birth) while others occur later in life. 

Hernia treatment in Nigeria

Surgery can repair a hernia by taking the organ or tissue back into position. The surgical procedure may typically also involve surgically reconstructing  or eliminating hernial sacs.

However, please note that not everyone who has a hernia requires surgery. But this can only be determined after a proper check and advisory from the hospital. 

The best treatment option would depend on the type of hernia,size and  its location. Similarly, Patient may also be able  to opt for any of the treatment options after all the  necessary factors  have been taken into consideration.

There are 3 main types of hernia treatment which includes;

open surgery repair

laparoscopic hernia repair

robotic repair

Please note that they are all done under general anesthesia so you have nothing to worry about. Upon consultation, you will be able to fully discuss and explore all available treatment options.

Open surgery for Hernia treatment

Open surgery repair typically involves a  surgical procedure wherein  an incison is made  and the hernia sac which contains the bulging tissue or organ is identified and put back in place afterwhich the soft spots/ walls are carefully lined with artificial meshes that promotes strengthening of the soft spots that induced the distension/ bulge and  promotes healing in the area.

Hernia treatment without surgery (Laparoscopy)

Laparoscopic hernia surgery/ repair involves the use of lapascropic or simply put  very thin instruments through the umbillicus Guided by a laparoscope  which transmits images of the internal organs to a monitor,  to locate  and repair the hernia. it is usually less invasive and painful. In a laparoscopic repair, recovery is faster.

Robotic repair for Hernia treatment

Robotic repair is a recently developed procedure for hernia repair and is the most least invasive option. It is very similar to laparoscopic surgery  and very tiny to no incissions will be made. But unlike the Laparoscopic repair that uses two dimensional imaging (2D) imaging, it employs the more advanced three dimensional (3D) imaging.

How to prevent Hernia

Some hernias are congenital which means that they may have been present since the birth of the individual but generally, adopting healthy lifestyle modifications can help one to prevent the possible occurence of an hernia.  Some of the ways to prevent hernia include;

Balanced intake of fruits and vegetables

Avoiding exercises that can make one susceptible to heavy coughs e.g smoking

See a Doctor when you experience persistent coughs and sneezing

Avoid consuming excess whole grain meals

Maintain an ideal body weight through exercising and diets

Avoid extremely strainous activities and lifting very heavy weight materials beyond your body size and form.

How much is Hernia surgery cost in Nigeria?

Surgery costs would usually depend on a combination of factors which includes;

1. Type of surgery required

2.  Age and gender of patient

3. Location and size of the Hernia

4. Location of Patient/ Choice Hospital

5. Experience of Surgeon

6. After care/ post-op packages

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much is hernia surgery in Nigeria?

This depends on the location for the surgery, hospital, type of hernia and other factors like duration of stay at the hospital.

2. Can hernia be cured permanently?

Surgery is the permanent cure for hernia

3. Can I repair my hernia without surgery?

Surgery is the only advisable way to  permanently cure an hernia.

4. What is the best treatment for hernia? 

Hernias typically do not go away on their own therefore, surgery is the best and permanent treatment for hernia.

Contact us for more information by calling on 08081111121 or sending an email to info@surjen.com

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for patient general knowledge only and should not be used during any medical emergency, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Duplication for personal and commercial use must be authorized in writing by Surjen.com.