Bariatric Surgery and Hernia Repair: Patient Information
At Tijuana Bariatrics, we are well-equipped to perform all sorts of complicated surgical procedures. Obviously this means state-of-the-art bariatric surgery with an emphasis on being as minimally invasive as possible. Yet this also mean more unique surgical procedures that may combine different surgical approaches to address more diverse patient needs.
Sometimes patients who are in need of bariatric surgery also face issues related to hernias. We'd like to cover the basics of hernias. We'll then discuss simultaneous surgery with a weight loss procedure as well hernias that occur after a weight loss procedure has been performed.
About Hernias
A hernia refers to the exit of an organ through the wall of a cavity in which the organ is normally situated. The most common hernias are around the groin area and are known as inguinal hernias.
The most common causes of hernias include heavy lifting, physical trauma to the abdominal area, heavy coughing fits, and poor posture. Hernias tend to affect men more than women; groin hernias are most common before the age of 1 and after the age of 50.
Signs and Symptoms of Hernias
Hernia symptoms are present in roughly two-thirds of cases, regardless of the type of hernia. These include the following:
- Swelling around the abdomen and groin
- Burning sensation around the bulge
- Heavy feeling in the abdomen
- Constipation
- Blood in stool
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain when lifting, coughing, or bending over
Hernia repair typically involves repositioning the out-of-place organ and using a surgical mesh to help the damaged wall of tissue heal.
Performing Hernia Repair and Bariatric Surgery Simultaneously
Simultaneous hernia repair and bariatric surgery can be performed. However, this should only be considered in certain circumstances. Typically one surgery will proceed the other depending on the patient's current health and medical needs.
Risks and Benefits of Simultaneous Surgery
The primary benefit of undergoing simultaneous bariatric surgery and hernia repair is that all of the necessary work can be accomplished in one surgical treatment rather than multiple surgeries. The primary risk of simultaneous surgery is that there is a greater chance of infection and further complications.
During a consultation, we can determine if a simultaneous surgery is the right option for you and your needs.
Hernias After Bariatric Surgery
Sometimes bariatric surgery can lead to issues with the stomach wall, resulting in a hernia. Should this occur, similar symptoms as noted above will be present. As you recover from bariatric surgery, be sure to let your surgeon know about any pain, bulges, or other issues that affect your wellness and healing.
Should a hernia develop, hernia repair can be performed. Revision bariatric surgery may also be considered if there are other complications related to the hernia that also affect the effectiveness or viability of the initial weight loss procedure.
Learn More About Weight Loss Surgery
For more information about your many options for weight loss and improving general wellness, be sure to contact our team of bariatric surgery experts today. Out team will work with you to develop a custom treatment plan focused on total wellness.
