Overview
Hernia is an anatomical defect and the only treatment is a surgical repair. Some over-the-counter medications can relieve pain and symptoms.
Hernia develops when an internal organ or tissue pushes through an opening or weak spot in the surrounding tissues or muscles that hold them. Hernias are commonly found in the abdominal and groin regions.
A hernia can be detected by an outward bulge on the skin that can be felt while pressing on it. You can feel a fullness or pressure on the area. The hernia can be generally pushed back inside the skin and the lump may not be visible when you lie down.
A hernia may not create any major symptoms that need immediate treatment. However, hernias do not resolve on their own and can progress and worsen with time.
For hernias with no symptoms, your healthcare provider may ask you to wait and watch and see if the symptoms worsen.
Hernia repair surgery can be delayed depending on your symptoms, the location and size of the hernia, and complications. Over time, hernias can get bigger in size and cause strangulation or obstruction which needs immediate surgery.
The cost of hernia surgery depends on several factors such as your health condition, any complications, the symptoms you are having, and the type of hernia.
What happens during a laser hernia surgery?
A laser hernia surgery is a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure where the herniated tissue or organ is stitched and pushed back to its natural position. It is a minor procedure that involves smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and faster recovery.
During a laparoscopic or keyhole procedure, the surgeon makes 2-3 incisions around the hernia. The surgeon inserts a laparoscope, an instrument with a tiny camera that allows the surgeon to view the internal organs.
The surgeon then inserts other surgical instruments through the remaining incisions.
The surgeon inflates the abdomen with gas to allow space and get a better view. The surgeon reinforces the weakened spot and pushes the hernia back to its position.
Surgical mesh is applied to strengthen the surrounding tissues. This also limits the recurrence of hernia.
Post-surgery, you can expect to have some mild soreness that generally goes away after one or two days.
Your surgeon will ask you not to perform any heavy—duty activities, or strain during bowel movements. This can put pressure on the incision site.
Eat foods that are rich in the diet. You may also use some stool softeners.
Consult your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms like:
- Constipation
- High fever
- Pain that is getting worse
- Problem during urination
- Nausea
- Pus or drainage oozing from the incision site
- Difficulty eating
- Experiencing bruising or soreness that does not go away
What are the benefits of laser hernia surgery?
A laser hernia surgery may be a better option compared to traditional open surgery. Here are a few advantages:
- Less scarring – Laparoscopic hernia surgery involves smaller incisions on the body and less scarring. Traditional open surgery may have a single cut or incision but it is bigger and may leave a big scar post-operation
- Recovery – The recovery period of laser surgery is far less compared to open surgery. You can restart your normal life much sooner than a traditional surgery
- Post-operative pain – The post-operative pain in laser surgery is considerably less
- Wound infections – There are fewer incidents of hematomas or wound infection
- Prevents recurrence – The chances of recurrence in laser hernia surgery are less compared to traditional surgery
- Less costly – Laser surgery involves shorter hospital stays. It can significantly reduce hospitalization charges
In this context, you must understand that the decision to perform an open or laparoscopic operation does not entirely depend on your choice. There are several deciding factors such as the type of hernia, complications, overall health, age of the patient, etc.
Cost of laser hernia surgery in Bangalore
The approximate cost of laser hernia surgery in Bangalore may range anywhere between Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,10,000. The specific cost is influenced by several factors such as the type of surgery, severity of the disease, doctor’s expertise, type of hospital, etc.
Cost-driving factors include:
Type of hernia
The type of hernia and its location is one of the prime factors that influence the surgery cost. Specific hernias required advanced diagnosis and the use of special medical equipment. This may increase the overall cost.
Diagnostic tests
Apart from the physical exam, the doctor will ask for some diagnostic tests like an x-ray, MRI, ultrasound, and a CT scan to detect the location, severity, and size of the hernia. Some hospitals may charge you more for diagnostic tests.
Hospital charges
Hospital charges depend on the type of amenities they offer, operating charges, infrastructure, etc. The charges for a single-occupancy room are higher than a shared room or general ward.
Hospital cost also depends on the type of hospital where you are having your surgery. Private hospitals are costlier than government hospitals.
Surgeon’s charges
The surgeon’s fees depend on his/her expertise, experience, surgery time, and specific procedure. In case there are underlying medical conditions or the surgeon has to perform some additional surgeries. This may impact the surgery cost.
Patient’s age
The cost also depends on the patient’s age. The surgeon has to follow additional precautions while operating on older people or children. This may affect the overall cost.
Surgical mesh
The surgeon uses surgical mesh to support the damaged tissues. The cost of surgery also depends on the type of mesh. Long-term or branded mesh is costlier.
Medical condition
An underlying medical condition or complication may require a complicated surgical procedure and can impact in-hospital costs.
Follow-up cost
It is also important to consider the follow-up cost post-surgery. This includes medications, home care, and follow-up visits to the doctor.
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