3759
3.5 Minute

16-08-2024 Team Medicover general

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Chukka Sanyasi Naidu

Hernia Mesh Surgery

Hernia mesh surgery is a way to fix a hernia, which happens when something inside the body pushes through a weak spot in the belly. In this surgery, doctors use a mesh (a special patch) to make the area stronger.

This helps stop the hernia from coming back. In this article, you will learn what the surgery is, its benefits, risks, recovery, cost and more.

What is Hernia Mesh Surgery?

In hernia mesh surgery, doctors use a special mesh (like a patch) to support weak or damaged muscles. The mesh is usually made from man made materials and stays in the body forever. This method is commonly used because it helps stop the hernia from coming back.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Preparing for Hernia Mesh Surgery

Before undergoing hernia mesh surgery, your doctor may advise the following:

Stop smoking, as it slows healing
Avoid certain medications, like blood thinners
Fast before surgery, depending on anesthesia use
Discuss health conditions or allergies
Arrange for transportation if sedation or general anesthesia is used

Being well-prepared can lead to fewer complications and faster recovery.

Benefits of Hernia Mesh Surgery

Reduced Recurrence Rates

Hernia mesh surgery helps stop the hernia from coming back. The mesh makes the weak spot stronger, so the problem is less likely to happen again.

Faster Recovery

People who have hernia mesh surgery, especially through a small cut (laparoscopic surgery), usually heal faster than those who have the old-style surgery.

Improved Quality of Life

After the surgery, many people feel much better. They have less pain and can go back to their normal daily activities, which makes them feel happier and more comfortable.

Complications of Hernia Mesh Surgery

Hernia mesh surgery is usually safe and effective, but like any surgical procedure, it can have some risks. These are sometimes referred to as hernia mesh problems or complications of surgical mesh and they include:

Infection: You may notice redness, swelling, warmth or fever around the surgical area. Sometimes antibiotics or further treatment is needed.
Chronic Pain: Long lasting pain can occur, especially if nearby nerves are irritated or compressed by the mesh.
Mesh Migration or Shrinkage: The mesh might move from its original position or shrink over time. This can lead to the hernia returning or causing discomfort.
Adhesions: Scar tissue may develop and stick to nearby organs, which can cause pain or complications.
Bowel Obstruction: If the mesh or scar tissue presses on the intestines, it can cause a blockage that may need emergency care.
Seroma: A pocket of clear fluid may build up under the skin at the surgery site. In some cases, it needs to be drained.
Recurrent Hernia: Although mesh reduces the chance of the hernia coming back, it’s still possible, especially if healing is poor or the mesh fails.
Symptoms of hernia mesh inflammation may include fever, swelling, redness, or constant pain near the surgery area.

In rare cases where problems don’t improve, removal of hernia mesh might be needed through another surgery.

Recovery Time

Recovery time after hernia mesh surgery depends on the person and how serious the surgery was. Most people can go back to normal activities in a few weeks. But heavy work or lifting should be avoided for 6 to 8 weeks to help the body heal properly.

Factors Affecting Recovery Time

Age: Older people may need more time to heal.
General Health: If someone already has health problems, their recovery may take longer.
Surgical Technique: Smaller, less invasive surgeries usually help people recover faster than bigger, open surgeries.

Post-Surgery Care Tips

Taking good care of yourself after surgery helps you heal faster and avoid problems:

Keep the cut area clean and dry
Take your medicines as the doctor told you
Don’t do heavy work or lift heavy things
Look out for signs of infection like swelling or redness
Go to all your follow-up doctor visits

Hernia Mesh Surgery Costs

The hernia mesh price in India depends on many things like the hospital, city, type of mesh and surgeon’s fees. On average, it ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹1,50,000. It's best to check with hospitals for exact pricing.

Factors Influencing Cost

Type of Mesh: Synthetic meshes are generally less expensive than biologic meshes.
Surgical Approach: Laparoscopic surgery may be more costly due to the specialized equipment and expertise required.
Hospital Fees: These can vary widely depending on the facility and region.

Success Rate

Hernia mesh surgery has a high success rate, with studies indicating success rates of 85-90%. Compared to non-mesh repairs, the use of mesh significantly reduces the likelihood of hernia recurrence.

Factors Influencing Success Rate

Surgeon Experience: Experienced surgeons tend to have higher success rates.
Patient Health: Healthier patients are more likely to experience successful outcomes.
Type of Hernia: Some hernias are more challenging to repair and may have lower success rates.

Risks of Hernia Mesh Surgery

Hernia mesh surgery has many benefits, but it also has some risks. Knowing these risks can help people choose the best treatment for themselves.

Surgical Risks

As with any surgery, hernia mesh surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection and adverse reactions to anaesthesia.

Long-term Complications

Long term complications can include chronic pain, mesh migration and adhesions, as previously discussed. These complications may require additional surgeries and prolonged medical care.

Legal Issues

In recent years, numerous legal cases have been related to hernia mesh complications. Patients have filed lawsuits against mesh manufacturers, citing issues such as defective products and inadequate warnings about potential risks.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Conclusion

Hernia mesh surgery can be a helpful and long lasting way to fix hernias for many people. While it usually works well, it's important to know that problems can sometimes happen. Talking to your doctor, asking questions and following their advice can help you stay safe and heal faster. Always keep an eye on how your body feels after surgery and don’t ignore any unusual pain or discomfort. The more you know, the better choices you can make for your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most patients resume normal activities in 2–3 weeks and fully recover in 6–8 weeks.

Yes, most mesh implants are made to stay in the body forever.

Yes, though rare. Recurrence depends on the type of hernia, surgical technique, and patient’s lifestyle.

Yes. Most patients return to their normal routines after recovery without any long-term issues.

There are synthetic meshes (made from plastic materials) and biologic meshes (derived from animal tissue). Your surgeon will choose the best type based on your condition.