A hernia is a common medical condition that occurs when an internal organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. Types include inguinal (groin), femoral (upper thigh), umbilical (belly button), and incisional (at the site of a previous surgical incision) hernias. Hernias are common [1] among men and women in Singapore.
Hernias can develop due to various factors including heavy lifting, chronic coughing, obesity, and pregnancy. If left untreated, hernias can lead to severe complications such as obstruction and strangulation which can be fatal. Keep reading to find out what you should do if you or a loved one has a suspected hernia.
Surgery is often recommended when the hernia causes symptoms or if there is a risk of complications. There is no medication treatment for hernias. Delaying treatment can lead to incarceration, where the herniated tissue becomes trapped, or strangulation [2] when the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off.
If you are unsure if you’ll need hernia surgery, be aware of the common signs and symptoms that your condition is worsening.
Symptoms to look out for include:
Severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention include:
Risk Factors and Causes of Hernia
Why do hernias develop? Hernias form when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue. This weakness may be present from birth or develop over time due to strain and pressure on the abdominal wall.
Common causes and risk factors include:
Hernia surgery can be performed [3] using two primary methods: open surgery and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. The choice of procedure depends on factors such as the size and location of the hernia, your overall health, and your surgeon’s recommendation.
Open Hernia Surgery
In open hernia surgery, a single incision is made over the hernia site to access the affected area. The protruding tissue is carefully pushed back into place, and the weakened muscle is reinforced with sutures, often with the addition of a mesh[4] for extra support. Once the repair is complete, the incision is closed using stitches or surgical glue to promote proper healing.
This is a suitable option for one sided inguinal hernias and large or complex hernias and is generally more affordable than laparoscopic surgery. Post surgery recovery time is usually a week and post-operative pain can be controlled with oral painkillers
Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Hernia Surgery
Laparoscopic hernia surgery involves making several small incisions instead of a single large cut. A tiny camera (laparoscope) is inserted to provide a clear view of the hernia so that the surgeon can repair it using specialised surgical tools. The displaced tissue is gently repositioned, and the weakened muscle is strengthened with sutures, often supplemented with a mesh for added support. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
This minimally invasive approach offers some advantages, namely a slightly faster recovery time (compared to open surgery), slightly less post-surgical pain, reduced scarring, and a lower risk of infection. It is particularly beneficial for patients with recurrent or bilateral hernias. However, laparoscopic surgery may be more expensive than open surgery in some cases. It also may not be suitable for very large or complex hernias.
Choosing the Right Surgery for Hernia
The best surgical approach depends on several factors:
Selecting the right surgeon and clinic is crucial for ensuring a successful hernia repair and a smooth recovery. A highly experienced and accredited surgeon that specialises in hernia repair procedures offers the most effective treatment options, whether through open surgery or laparoscopic techniques.
In Singapore, hernia repair procedures are widely available, with laparoscopic surgery being the common choice due to its minimally invasive nature and shorter recovery time. However, open surgery is still performed for larger or more complex hernias. Patients should also ensure that their chosen clinic is well-equipped with modern surgical facilities and provides comprehensive post-operative care.
At Alpine Surgical Practice in Singapore, we specialise in hernia repair procedures to offer safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatments for a quicker recovery. Our experienced and accredited surgeons provide personalised care tailored to each patient's needs, ensuring comprehensive support from diagnosis to post-surgery recovery. Schedule a consultation today at Alpine Surgical Practice.
The cost of hernia surgery in Singapore varies depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of the condition. Laparoscopic hernia repair is generally more expensive than open surgery, as it requires specialised equipment and expertise. On average, the cost of hernia surgery ranges from SGD 8,000 to SGD 15,000.
Insurance and subsidy options can significantly reduce expenses. You should check your health insurance policies to determine coverage for hernia surgery, including consultation fees, surgical costs, and hospital stays. Singapore residents may also be able to use MediSave [5] and MediShield Life [6] to help offset expenses, depending on the eligibility criteria.
If you’re expecting to undergo surgery for a hernia, don’t fret as proper preparation before hernia surgery usually ensures a smooth recovery. You are typically required to undergo pre-operative assessments, including blood tests, imaging scans, and a medical review to assess your overall health and be sure that you’re a suitable candidate for surgery. It is important to inform your surgeon of any existing medical conditions or medications being taken, as some may need to be adjusted before surgery.
Patients should also follow pre-surgery precautions, such as fasting before the procedure and avoiding certain medications that could increase bleeding risk. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle before surgery can also aid in recovery. Speak to your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns about surgery.
The recovery timeline depends on the type of hernia surgery performed. Laparoscopic surgery typically allows for a faster recovery of about one to two weeks, while open surgery may require four to six weeks for complete healing. In the first few days after surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
To minimise complications, patients should follow post-surgery care instructions carefully. It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense physical exercise for a few weeks. Other recommendations include wearing supportive garments and following a high-fiber diet with adequate hydration to prevent constipation, which can strain the surgical site. You should also make sure you attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Timely treatment for a hernia is essential to prevent serious and life-threatening complications such as strangulation or obstruction. Consulting an experienced surgeon ensures that patients receive the most appropriate treatment for their condition, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.
Hernia surgery, whether open or laparoscopic, is a safe and effective procedure with high success rates. Taking a proactive approach by taking note of your symptoms, seeking specialist advice, and understanding the available treatment options can make a significant difference in recovery. With personalised care and medical guidance, you can achieve a smooth healing process and return to your daily activities with minimal disruption.
Hernia surgery is generally considered a routine and safe procedure, but it depends on the type of hernia, the surgical method, and the patient’s overall health.
Surgery is typically recommended if the hernia is causing symptoms such as pain and discomfort, growing in size, or causing complications such as incarceration (trapped tissue) or strangulation (cut-off blood supply), which require emergency surgery.
Most hernia surgeries take 60 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity and type of repair needed. Patients can often return home the same day for minor hernias, although some may require an overnight hospital stay.
As with any surgery, hernia repair carries risks such as infection at the surgical site, bleeding, or bruising. These risks can be minimised by following post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the incision site clean, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon. Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any complications or severe pain after hernia surgery.
Hernia recurrence is not common and may happen if post-surgery precautions are not followed, such as heavy lifting. Using a mesh reinforcement during surgery lowers the risk of recurrence.
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