Hernia Repair
A hernia occurs when all or part of a viscus protrudes from its normal location; most hernias are protrusions of part of the abdominal wall. Many types of abdominal hernias are possible, but inguinal hernias are the most common. Hernais may be corrected by herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty. Herniorrhaphy, the surgery of choice for inguinal and other abdominal hernias, returns the protruding intestine to the abdominal cavity and repairs the abdominal wall defect. Hernioplasty, a related surgery used to correct more extensive hernias, reinforces the weakened area around the repair with plastic, steel or tantalum mesh, or wire.
Typically, herniorrhaphy and hernioplasty are elective surgeries that can be done quickly and produce few complications. However, emergency herniorrhaphy may be necessary to reduce a strangulated hernia and prevent ischemia and gangrene.
Procedure
With the patient under general or spinal anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision over the area of herniation. He manipulates the herniated tissue back to its proper position and then repairs the defect in the muscle or fascia. If necessary, he reinforces the area of the defect with wire, mesh, or another material. Then he closes the incision and applies a dressing.
If the hernia is uncomplicated, it can be repaired laparoscopically.
Complications
A hernia repair is a relatively simple surgical procedure that causes no serious complications postoperatively. Occasionally, a patient may experience a wound infection or develop a transient difficulty voiding after surgery.
Key nursing diagnoses and patient outcomes
Risk for infection related to normal bacterial flora at the incision site. Based on this nursing diagnosis, you’ll establish these patient outcomes. The patient will:
maintain a normal temperature and white blood cell countStay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
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