Hernia Surgery at USMD Hospital at Arlington

At USMD Hospital at Arlington, the surgeons on the medical staff provide expert hernia care with a focus on advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques. The experienced hernia surgeons on the medical staff take special care to ensure that each patient receives personalized treatment for typical hernias as well as more complex hernias.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia is a hole or weak spot in the abdominal wall, allowing organs or tissues, such as intestines or fat, to protrude and push through.

The most common types of hernias include:

• Inguinal Hernia: Occurs in the groin and is more common in men. It typically results from increased pressure in the abdomen, often due to heavy lifting, chronic coughing, obesity, or straining during bowel movements. Symptoms of inguinal hernia include a visible bulge in the groin, discomfort or pain that worsens with activity, and a feeling of pressure.
• Umbilical Hernia: Develops near the belly button. Umbilical hernias are common in newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with low birth weight. In adults, factors such as obesity, multiple pregnancies, and frequent heavy lifting can contribute to this type of hernia. Symptoms include a bulge near the belly button, discomfort, and pain during physical exertion.
• Incisional Hernia: Forms at the site of a previous surgical incision. Factors increasing the risk include poor wound healing, obesity, infection at the incision site, or repeated strain on the area. Symptoms of incisional hernia often involve a noticeable bulge near the surgical scar, tenderness, and pain when lifting or bending.
• Hiatal Hernia: Occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Common risk factors include obesity, age, and smoking. Symptoms of hiatal hernia can include chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux. Severe cases may require surgical intervention.
• Femoral Hernia: More common in women, femoral hernias appear in the upper thigh or groin. They are typically caused by pressure from obesity, heavy lifting, or childbirth. Symptoms of femoral hernia may include a painful lump near the groin or thigh, and in severe cases, they can lead to bowel obstruction, requiring urgent surgery.

Hernias may start small and cause minimal discomfort. Surgery is not always necessary, but hernias typically worsen over time.

Symptoms often include:

• A visible bulge in the abdomen or groin
• Pain or discomfort, especially during lifting, coughing, or physical exertion
• Pressure in the affected area

Hernia Repair Surgery: Typical vs. Complex

Most hernias can be repaired with a straightforward surgical procedure, during which the surgeon closes the hole and reinforces the abdominal wall using a hernia mesh. However, certain cases require complex hernia repair. Factors that tend to make a hernia repair complex include:

• Large hernias (10-20 cm)
• Recurrent hernias
• Multiple hernias in different areas
• Extensive scar tissue in the area of the hernia from prior operations

In complex cases, additional techniques like component separation may be used to relieve tension on the abdominal wall, ensuring a successful and lasting repair. In these more complex cases, it is essential to the reduce tension during the repair to prevent recurrence and achieve optimal results.

Types of Hernia Repair Surgery

At USMD, the surgeons on the medical staff specialize in three primary approaches to hernia repair surgery:

• Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Using the da Vinci Surgical System, robotic-assisted surgery provides superior flexibility, precision, and visualization. Surgeons use small incisions to perform the repair, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues. Robotic surgery offers faster recovery times, reduced pain, and lower infection risks. This is often the preferred approach for both typical and complex hernia repairs.
• Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: Similar to robotic-assisted surgery, this minimally invasive technique uses small incisions and a camera for visualization. While effective for some cases, robotic technology offers greater dexterity and control, making it particularly beneficial for more challenging hernia repairs.
• Open Surgery: In certain situations, such as severe scar tissue or large, complicated hernias, open surgery may be necessary. This involves a larger incision to access the hernia directly. While the recovery period is longer compared to robotic or laparoscopic hernia repair, it remains a reliable option when needed.

Hernia Surgery Recovery and Benefits

Recovery times vary depending on the type of hernia and surgical approach used. Most patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery can return to normal activities within two to three weeks. Complex repairs or open surgeries typically require a longer recovery period of four to six weeks or longer.

Benefits of hernia repair surgery include:

• Reduced pain and faster recovery with minimally invasive techniques
• Lower risk of hernia recurrence
• Enhanced abdominal wall strength and stability

After surgery, patients must follow lifting restrictions, typically avoiding lifting more than 20 pounds for a few weeks, or longer, to ensure proper healing.

Addressing Hernia Surgery Myths

A few common misconceptions about hernias and hernia surgery:

Myth: Hernias may resolve on their own. Contrary to popular belief, hernias will not heal on their own and often worsen over time. Additionally, robotic and laparoscopic approaches are not only effective but can also reduce the risk of recurrence compared to traditional open surgery.

If it looks like a hernia, it’s a hernia. Another common misconception: many patients may confuse a condition called diastasis recti with a hernia. Diastasis recti a separation of the abdominal muscles that does not require surgery. Diastasis recti is a condition where the abdominal muscles (the “six-pack" muscles) separate along the midline of the abdomen. This may occur during and after pregnancy as the uterus expands. That puts pressure on the abdominal muscles, causing the connective tissue to stretch and thin, leading to the separation. This condition can also occur in men, newborns, and individuals who lift heavy weights incorrectly or perform excessive abdominal exercises. Typically, the patient might notice a bulge or gap in the middle of your abdomen, especially when you engage your core muscles or stand. In many cases, diastasis recti will resolve on its own after pregnancy, but exercises and physical therapy can help strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve core function. In some cases, surgery may be an option.

Why Choose USMD Hospital at Arlington for Hernia Surgery?

Surgeons on the medical staff at USMD Hospital at Arlington perform numerous hernia repairs surgeries every year. Currently, the hospital is working toward becoming a Hernia Center of Excellence, ensuring the highest standards of care through:

• Expert Hernia Surgeons: Our team includes highly skilled surgeons specialized in general surgery and specifically hernia surgery.
• Advanced Technology: We offer the latest in robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System.
• Comprehensive Care: Our multidisciplinary approach includes collaboration with dietitians, wound specialists, and other experts to optimize patient outcomes.
• Data-Driven Results: As part of our commitment to excellence, we will begin to and analyze surgical outcomes to ensure continuous quality improvement.

Preparing for Hernia Surgery

Patients can prepare for hernia surgery by maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and managing any underlying conditions like diabetes or obesity. Following your surgeon’s preoperative instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re experiencing hernia symptoms or have concerns about a previous repair, contact USMD Hospital at Arlington to get connected with a hernia specialist on the medical staff. The experienced surgical team is here to provide the highest level of care using the most advanced techniques available.

Find a Physician and take the first step toward relief today.