Our Summary

This research paper looks at the risks for patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) who are undergoing elective laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. The study found that out of 8,789 patients who had the surgery, 64 of them had ESRD. The findings suggest that patients with ESRD have a higher risk of developing postoperative pneumonia and sepsis, and also tend to stay longer in the hospital after the surgery. Therefore, doctors should be aware of these increased risks when considering this type of surgery for patients with ESRD.

FAQs

  1. What is the risk for patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) when undergoing elective laparoscopic ventral hernia repair?
  2. What postoperative complications are patients with ESRD more likely to develop after laparoscopic hernia repair?
  3. Does the study suggest that patients with ESRD tend to stay longer in the hospital after undergoing a laparoscopic ventral hernia repair?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic hernia repair is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting guidelines, medication instructions, and any other specific recommendations from the surgical team. This can help minimize the risk of complications during and after the surgery. Additionally, it is important for patients to be honest with their healthcare providers about their medical history, including any existing conditions such as ESRD, so that the surgical team can take appropriate precautions and provide the best possible care.

Suitable For

In general, laparoscopic hernia repair is recommended for patients who have smaller hernias, have a lower risk of complications, and are able to tolerate general anesthesia. Patients who are obese, have a history of hernias, or have other medical conditions that make open surgery more risky may also be good candidates for laparoscopic hernia repair. Additionally, patients who are looking for a faster recovery time and less postoperative pain may benefit from this minimally invasive approach. However, it is important for patients to discuss their individual medical history and risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for their specific situation.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic hernia repair:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a hernia and discusses treatment options with their doctor.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative evaluation and preparation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a consultation with a specialist.
  3. Patient receives instructions on preoperative care, such as fasting before the surgery and avoiding certain medications.
  4. Patient undergoes the laparoscopic hernia repair surgery, which is performed under general anesthesia and involves making small incisions in the abdomen to repair the hernia using a mesh patch.
  5. Patient is monitored during the recovery period in the hospital or outpatient setting.

After laparoscopic hernia repair:

  1. Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site, which can be managed with pain medications.
  2. Patient is advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow for proper healing.
  3. Patient may have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their recovery and address any concerns or complications.
  4. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and can typically return to work within a few weeks after the surgery.
  5. Patient should continue to monitor for any signs of infection or recurrence of the hernia and follow up with their doctor as needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic hernia repair include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery period after laparoscopic hernia repair?
  3. Will I need to make any changes to my lifestyle or diet after the surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options for my hernia?
  5. How many laparoscopic hernia repair surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital after the surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  8. How soon can I return to work or normal activities after the surgery?
  9. Are there any specific postoperative care instructions I need to follow?
  10. How can I best prepare for the surgery to ensure a successful outcome?

Reference

Authors: Gurien SD, Chung P, Nofi CP, Coppa GF, Sugiyama G. Journal: JSLS. 2022 Jan-Mar;26(1):e2021.00086. doi: 10.4293/JSLS.2021.00086. PMID: 35281710