Our Summary

This research paper discusses the different methods of fixing small belly button hernias, comparing the standard practice with a mesh repair technique. The research looked into the medical records of Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center for six years (2012-2017), focusing on patients who had surgery to fix their belly button hernias. The main goal was to see how many of these surgeries were successful in the long run, with an average follow-up period of about three and a half years.

The research found that 244 patients had the standard surgery, and most of their hernias were small (less than 2 cm). Only 3% of these surgeries failed, meaning the hernia came back. The study also found that hernias were more likely to come back if they were larger to begin with.

The research concluded that the standard surgical method is effective and safe, with a low risk of the hernia returning. This method, which used a special kind of absorbable suture and was most effective in patients with a lower body mass index and smaller hernias, was just as successful as the mesh repair technique. This means that for small belly button hernias, the standard surgery is a good option.

FAQs

  1. What is the recurrence rate for umbilical hernia repair?
  2. Does the size of the hernia affect the likelihood of recurrence post-repair?
  3. Is primary umbilical hernia repair as safe and effective as mesh repair?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing hernia repair to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a period of time to allow for proper healing. They may also recommend maintaining a healthy weight and overall lifestyle to reduce the risk of recurrence. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider for regular check-ups to monitor the healing process and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Patients with small umbilical hernias (less than 2 cm) are typically recommended for hernia repair. This study found that primary repair of umbilical hernias resulted in low infection and recurrence rates, comparable to those reported for mesh repair. Patients with lower BMI and smaller hernia sizes were found to have better outcomes with primary repair.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and a visible bulge in the affected area
  • Consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative evaluations and tests may be conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and suitability for surgery

After hernia repair:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to repair the hernia, either through primary repair or mesh repair
  • Recovery period post-surgery, which may include pain management, restrictions on physical activity, and follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider
  • Long-term follow-up to monitor for any signs of recurrence or complications
  • Overall, patients can expect relief from symptoms and improved quality of life after successful hernia repair.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different options for hernia repair, and what are the pros and cons of each?
  2. What is the success rate of primary hernia repair compared to mesh repair?
  3. What is the expected recovery time after hernia repair surgery?
  4. Are there any potential complications or risks associated with hernia repair surgery?
  5. How long do I need to wait before returning to normal activities or work after hernia repair surgery?
  6. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions?
  7. How can I prevent future hernias from occurring after surgery?
  8. Will there be any visible scarring after hernia repair surgery?
  9. What should I do if I experience any pain or discomfort after hernia repair surgery?
  10. How frequently will I need to follow up with you after hernia repair surgery?

Reference

Authors: Kang E, Collins JC. Journal: Am Surg. 2019 Oct 1;85(10):1159-1161. PMID: 31657315