Hernia Repair (Tavistock Hospital)
Date issued: November 2024
For review: November 2026
Ref: A-658/TA/Colorectal/Hernia Repair
PDF: Hernia Repair (Tavistock Hospital) [pdf] 253KB
A hernia is a protrusion of the lining of the abdomen through a defect in the abdominal wall; this could be likened to an “empty glove finger”. If some of the contents of the abdomen spill into this “finger” it can be a serious situation. Therefore, you have been recommended for surgery to repair the hernia. Hernias commonly occur in the umbilical, inguinal and femoral sites.
The operation involves the removal of the hernia sack “the gloved finger” and repair of the hole in the abdomen wall. A mesh is sometimes used to strengthen the hole. The mesh is synthetic and very strong, and you should not concern yourself that you will damage the repair with normal activity.
When recovering and undertaking activity the general rule is: If it feels good, do it, if not, STOP and try again in a few days’ time.
Medication
In most circumstances the anaesthetist and surgeon will not prescribe pain relief tablets to take home with you, Paracetamol and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (such as Ibuprofen) are recommended for to take post-operatively unless otherwise directed. Any further medication that you normally take may be resumed following the operation unless the doctor has advised you differently.
Activity
The key to a speedy recovery is good pain control and activity after your surgery. Be guided by what your body is telling you. Walking is an effective form of activity. For patients that wish to return to sporting activities, you will need at least six weeks to recover properly. It will depend on your age, level of fitness, type of sport and type of hernia repair; this should be explained to you before discharge.
Symptoms
For several days after the procedure, you may experience some mild to moderate discomfort. After resting overnight, you will wake feeling very sore and stiff, you should get up, walk around and take pain medication (analgesia) prescribed for you.
Patients who have had a groin hernia repair may have a slight swelling to the incision. It is usual to have extensive bruising; this will disappear after a couple of weeks.
It can be painful getting up from a sitting position, turning side to side from the waist, coughing, sneezing, laughing and bending. If the pain increases, try changing the position you are in, place your hand over your wound and support when sneezing/coughing.
Another symptom is Constipation which can also be a problem following surgery. To prevent this, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and drink water. A mild laxative may be taken you can get these from any pharmacy. If this does not help the problem, see your GP.
Stitches
Dissolvable stitches are usually used unless you have keyhole surgery when ‘glue’ might be used instead. After a few days you may start to notice sharp stabbing sensation around the area of your operation. This is normal, it is the internal stitches pulling because you are becoming more active. This stabbing sensation generally settles after a period of time.
Care of the wound site
The wound will normally be covered in a light dressing. Occasionally a thick, pressure dressing is applied to prevent bleeding or bruising, this pressure dressing may be removed at home after 24 hours. The light wound dressing must stay dry until you remove it 5-7 days after the operation. If there is any fresh bleeding through the dressing when you go home, apply pressure over the wound until it stops. The dressing will need to be changed if it becomes soaked in blood. If the bleeding continues contact the hospital.
The nurse will advise you as to whether the stitches need removing.
Infection
If you notice any signs of infection, such as, redness, swelling, heat, odorous discharge, or pain, please contact your GP. If you do develop an infection within two weeks of your surgery, please let us know by calling 01752 436100.
Sexual function
You may resume sexual activity when you feel able and feel comfortable enough.
Driving
Do not drive for 7 to 10 days after your surgery. Everyone is different and will recover at different rates. If you are in any doubt, contact your insurance company for advice as your insurance could be invalidated if you drive too soon and have an accident.
Back to work
As a guide: light/supervisory jobs one to two weeks, minimal lifting jobs two to three weeks and heavy lifting jobs six weeks. This is purely a guide and you may wish to take more time off from work depending on how you feel.
Advice
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If problems occur in the first 24-48 hours and you need information or advice, please contact: Tavistock 01752 436100
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In an emergency, please return to The Emergency Department at Hospital or ring for an ambulance.
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After 48 hours if you are worried or concerned that you’re feeling unwell or feel something isn’t right, please contact your GP to make an appointment or NHS 111 if out of hours.
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If you feel like you need to pass urine but cannot please ring this telephone number for Postbridge Ward: 01752 431225
