What is a hernia?
A hernia occurs when parts of internal organs bulge through weak areas of your muscle wall. Hernias usually happen in your abdomen. Various types of hernias include:
- Umbilical hernias near your belly button
- Incisional hernias through a scar
- Inguinal or femoral hernias in your groin
- Hiatal hernias near your diaphragm
Inguinal or femoral hernias are the most common, occurring in 75-80% of cases. The type of hernia you have determines which surgical procedure Dr. Halili uses to repair it.
What are the symptoms of a hernia?
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, you may have a hernia:
- A lump or bulge in your skin
- Swelling, pain, or a bulge in your groin
- A bulge that increases in size over time
- A dull aching feeling
- Pain when lifting
- Heartburn, indigestion, or difficulty swallowing
Sometimes you can push in a hernia bulge, but when you let go it protrudes out again.
What are the risk factors for a hernia?
Some people are more prone to hernias than others. The following factors increase your risk of developing them:
- Weakened muscles
- Repeated strains on groin or abdominal areas
- Physical exertion
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Straining on the toilet
- Constipation
- Frequent coughing
Giving birth may cause a hernia. Aging is associated with weakening of your diaphragm, putting you at a higher risk of developing hiatal hernias.
What happens during hernia surgeries?
To determine if you have a hernia, Dr. Halili reviews your symptoms, examines the affected area, and may use imaging like MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds to confirm a hernia diagnosis.
Hernias usually don’t get better on their own. The surgical method Dr. Halili uses for repair depends on the type and severity of your hernia. It might include:
Open surgery
During open hernia surgery, Dr. Halili makes an incision near the hernia to repair it and stitch up a damaged muscle wall. He might implant mesh to provide additional support to the injured area.
Robotic surgery
Dr. Halili uses robot-assisted surgery for certain hernia procedures. He controls a robotic device from a console to optimize precision and accuracy during your surgery.
Laparoscopic surgery
Laparoscopic surgery allows Dr. Halili to make tiny incisions. He uses a long, thin lighted tube with a camera attached to it while repairing your hernia.
A full recovery from hernia surgery might take several weeks. Dr. Halili gives you postsurgical instructions that help maximize your recovery.
Don’t let an untreated hernia lead to painful complications. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Halili at Central Florida Surgical Specialists by phone today.
