Our Summary

This study looked at how often a certain type of weight-loss surgery (sleeve gastrectomy or SG) was done at the same time as a repair for a type of hernia (hiatal hernia repair or HHR). Using data from Texas, they found that about a third of the patients who had the weight-loss surgery in an outpatient setting also had the hernia repair. In an inpatient setting, about a fifth of the patients had both procedures. The cost and length of stay in hospital for these combined surgeries were also examined. Interestingly, the patients who had both surgeries tended to have a slightly shorter hospital stay. Over the five years of the study, the researchers also saw an increase in the number of these combined surgeries being done.

FAQs

  1. What percentage of patients had both the weight-loss surgery and hernia repair in an outpatient setting?
  2. Did the patients who had both surgeries tend to have longer or shorter hospital stays?
  3. Has there been an increase or decrease in the number of combined surgeries over the five years of the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hiatal hernia repair is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including restrictions on lifting heavy objects and avoiding certain foods that may aggravate the hernia. It is important to give your body time to heal properly after the surgery to prevent complications and promote a successful recovery. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle can help reduce the risk of the hernia recurring in the future.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hiatal hernia repair are those who have persistent symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) despite trying other treatments such as medication or lifestyle changes. Additionally, patients with complications of hiatal hernias such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, or respiratory issues may also be recommended for surgery. Patients who are undergoing weight-loss surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy, may also be recommended for hiatal hernia repair if they have a hiatal hernia that needs to be addressed at the same time.

Timeline

Before Hiatal Hernia Repair:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of hiatal hernia such as heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, barium swallow, or pH monitoring to confirm the presence of a hiatal hernia.
  3. Treatment options such as medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary modifications are recommended to manage symptoms.

After Hiatal Hernia Repair:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to repair the hiatal hernia, either through open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.
  2. Recovery period post-surgery includes pain management, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
  3. Patient experiences relief from symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux after the hernia repair.
  4. Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for any recurrence of the hernia and to address any new symptoms that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a hiatal hernia and why do I need surgery to repair it?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications of hiatal hernia repair surgery?
  3. How long will the surgery take and what type of anesthesia will be used?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and when can I return to normal activities?
  5. Will I need to follow a special diet or make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  6. What is the success rate of hiatal hernia repair surgery and what are the chances of the hernia coming back?
  7. Will I need to take any medications after the surgery and for how long?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures available for hiatal hernia repair?
  9. How many hiatal hernia repair surgeries have you performed and what is your experience with this type of procedure?
  10. Can you provide me with information on the cost of the surgery and if it is covered by my insurance?

Reference

Authors: Clapp B, Liggett E, Barrientes A, Aguirre K, Marwaha V, Tyroch A. Journal: JSLS. 2020 Oct-Dec;24(4):e2020.00066. doi: 10.4293/JSLS.2020.00066. PMID: 33414611