Surgical mesh is used in a variety of circumstances where medical specialists apply this as a remedy for damaged tissue in the body. One of the predominant areas where the mesh is used is within the repair of soft tissue in hernia patients. One of the main motivating factors for using a surgical mesh device is
What is a Hernia?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides that a hernia occurs when an organ, fatty tissue or an intestine pushes through an area of weakened muscle or connective tissue. Hernias can be visible, as a bulge protruding from the skin over the location of the hernia. The predominant area for hernias to develop or occur are at the abdominal wall.
Hernia Treatment Options
The treatment or repair of a hernia can be conducted in either the Surgical or Non-Surgical route.
Non-Surgical
Although the non-surgical option is not an actual repair option, for those that do not suffer adverse effects due to a hernia, the treating physician may suggest that an attentive watch of the hernia and overall condition of the patient’s health be maintained. WebMD provides that the risk of this approach is that the protruding organ may become strangulated, where the blood supply is cut off, and which could result in infection and tissue death. The further implications of the aforementioned occurring can certainly have dire consequences for the patient, with the possible outcomes including intestinal obstruction, infection, gangrene, intestinal perforation, shock and ultimately even death of the patient. To this end many have elected a surgical repair option.
Surgical
The surgical treatment, and repair of a hernia is commonly referred to as a hernioplasty or a herniorrhaphy, where the former refers to the use of prosthetic devices, such as hernia mesh, and the latter is the stitching of the surrounding tissue to repair the hernia. Both of these procedures have shown the recurrence of a hernia, to different degrees, however, when dealing with defective hernia mesh serious health implications may arise, not to mention the range of additional medical expenses, associated pain and overall inconveniences to the victim of these types of defective medical products.
Hernia treatment options depend on the type and severity of the hernia. A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot or opening in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. The most common types of hernias are inguinal (groin), femoral, umbilical, hiatal, and incisional hernias. Here are some common treatment options:
- Watchful Waiting:
- In some cases, especially with small hernias that are not causing symptoms, a doctor may recommend a “watchful waiting” approach. This involves monitoring the hernia for any changes and addressing it only if symptoms worsen.
- Lifestyle Changes:
- For hernias caused by factors like obesity or chronic coughing, lifestyle changes may be recommended. These can include weight loss, dietary modifications, and managing conditions that contribute to increased abdominal pressure.
- Hernia Belts or Trusses:
- Supportive devices such as hernia belts or trusses may be used to help support the affected area and reduce the protrusion of the hernia. However, these are typically considered temporary measures and are not a cure for the hernia.
- Medications:
- Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms associated with hernias, such as pain or acid reflux. However, medications do not treat the hernia itself; they only address symptoms.
- Physical Therapy:
- For certain types of hernias, physical therapy exercises may be recommended to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve support in the affected area.
- Surgery:
- Surgical intervention is often the most effective and definitive treatment for hernias. There are different surgical approaches, including traditional open surgery and minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic surgery or robotic-assisted surgery.
- Open Surgery: This involves making a larger incision at the site of the hernia to manually push the herniated tissue back into place and repair the weakened muscle or tissue.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: This is a minimally invasive approach where small incisions are made, and a camera and surgical instruments are inserted to repair the hernia. Recovery time is often shorter compared to open surgery.
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Similar to laparoscopic surgery, but the surgeon controls a robotic system to perform the procedure. This may offer enhanced precision and flexibility.
- Hiatal Hernia Treatment:
- For hiatal hernias, lifestyle changes and medications to reduce stomach acid may be recommended. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to repair the hernia and address acid reflux issues.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the specific type and severity of the hernia. Ignoring a hernia or attempting to self-treat can lead to complications, so seeking medical advice is crucial.