Hernia Repair
A hernia develops when part of an internal organ bulges through a weak muscle or tissue. Hernias are very common in men and women of all age groups in the Ogden area, and unfortunately, the only way to repair them is with surgery. Hernias frequently develop below the groin, through the navel, or along a previous incision. Hernia types are classified by where they occur in the body:
Inguinal hernia occurs in the groin. This type of hernia is very common in men and may reach from the groin down into the scrotum.
Umbilical hernia is a bulge around the navel (belly button.) When the muscle around the navel does not close properly, it leaves this tissue vulnerable for hernia development.
Hiatal hernia occurs in the upper part of the stomach when part of the stomach pushes into the chest.
Femoral hernia is a bulge in the upper thigh, just below the groin. This type of hernia occurs more often in women than men.
Incision hernia frequently develops in the abdomen. This type of hernia bulges through a scar months or years after surgery was performed.
How would I know if I have a hernia?
You may experience pain or mild discomfort that worsens when you stand, strain, or lift a heavy object. The most common complaint about a hernia is a bump that is sore and growing.
As a hernia grows, it may get stuck in place and lose its blood supply. This is a dangerous situation called strangulation. Immediate surgical intervention is required if a hernia becomes strangulated. Dr. Grunander recommends making an appointment at the Ogden Clinic well before strangulation can occur. She and her trusted team can quickly diagnose hernias with a physical exam, X-rays and/or ultrasound.
Surgically Repairing a Hernia
Hernia repair has changed drastically over the last few years with minimally invasive techniques leading the way to a smoother recovery. While surgery for hernia repair a the Ogden Clinic can seem daunting, most repairs Dr. Grunander performs:
Do not require a hospital stay
Result in minimal discomfort after surgery
Allow patients to heal faster and return to their activities quicker
Give patients the lowest possible recurrence rate
That’s because Dr. Grunander performs most hernia surgeries laparoscopically. Instead of a large incision, Dr. Grunander guides a thin, lighted scope through one small incision to visualize the hernia without opening it invasively. Dr. Grunander then uses two small incisions makes 2-3 additional incisions to surgery with specialized tools. The goal of hernia repair surgery for Ogden patients is to secure the weakened abdominal wall tissue and close any holes.