How to Talk to a Hernia Surgeon

The discovery of a bulge or pain with straining and heavy lifting are indicators that a hernia may be present. These symptoms are usually the initial warning to talk to a hernia surgeon. A hernia (also called an enterocele) is the bulging of part of an internal organ through an area of weak muscle.

Instructions

Discuss the Need for Hernia Surgery

• 1

  Tell your doctor about any previous surgeries that have compromised the integrity of the abdominal wall. A hernia can develop along an incision.

• 2

  Discuss your fears or concerns about having hernia surgery. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of surgical intervention based on your specific hernia type.

• 3

  Ask about the recovery time. The majority of patients can return to normal activities in only a few days.

• 4

  Talk to a hernia surgeon about his experience with hernia surgery. Find out how many similar procedures he does monthly or yearly.

• 5

  Inquire about the surgeon's experience with the nursing staff where the procedure will be done. Ask her if the staff provides good follow-up care for her patients who have hernia repair.

• 6

  Talk to your doctor about the options if the procedure is not done at this time.

• 7

  Inquire about the kind of anesthesia that will be used for the hernia repair. Ask if a general anesthesia will be necessary, or if the procedure can be performed using a regional or local anesthesia.

• 8

  Discuss the length of hospitalization required for the hernia repair. Can it be done as an outpatient, or will hospital admission be needed?

Understand Hernia Symptoms and Treatment

• 9

  Report any noticeable protrusion in the abdomen or groin area to your doctor. The most common area for developing a hernia is the groin. Tell the surgeon when the bulge was noticed and if it is accompanied by pain on exertion.

• 10

  Talk to a hernia surgeon when you have pain in the abdomen or groin area upon lifting heavy objects. There may not be a bulge, but pain can indicate an internal hernia.

• 11

  Realize the options for hernia repair are open repair (performed through a surgical opening through the skin) or by a laparoscopic procedure (done through a tiny incision with the use of a laproscope). Ask your doctor which will be the best option for you.