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When an organ or fatty tissue forces its way through a vulnerable spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue, referred to as fascia, a hernia is formed. The most common symptoms people with hernias exhibit are:
Persistent or worsening bulge in the affected area
Pain or discomfort, particularly when crouching over, lifting, or coughing
Symptoms of bowel obstruction, such as vomiting or severe constipation
Signs of a strangulated hernia, including sudden, intense pain, fever, and a hernia bulge that discolours, turning red, purple, or dark
While hernias can take many forms, the abdominal wall is frequently affected, causing substantial pain. At Clinique Michel Gagner we repair many different types of hernias, including:
Inguinal Hernias: The most common type, inguinal hernias, occur when intestines or fat from the abdomen protrude into the groin area at the top of the inner thigh. Males are typically more prone to inguinal hernia repairs.
Hiatal Hernias: This variety manifests when a segment of the stomach moves upward into the chest cavity via an opening in the diaphragm. Symptoms might include heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
Femoral Hernias: Femoral hernias are less common and occur when fatty tissue or part of the intestine protrudes into the groin at the top of the inner thigh. They are more common in women.
Umbilical Hernias: These hernias happen when part of the small intestine passes through the abdominal wall near the navel. They are common in newborns, but they can also affect adults.
Spigelian Hernias: Spigelian hernias occur through the Spigelian fascia. Unlike other types, these hernias do not develop below layers of fat but instead between muscles in the abdominal wall.
Incisional Hernias: These can develop after abdominal surgery, where the intestine pushes through the incision scar or the surrounding weakened tissue.
Lumbar Hernias: Rare compared to others, lumbar hernias occur in the lumbar region on either side of the spine, through the muscle.
Surgery to treat a hernia is recommended primarily because it offers relief from the significant pain and discomfort that hernias often cause. By opting for surgical intervention, you not only alleviate your current symptoms but also prevent the risk of serious complications, such as strangulation of the herniated organ, which can lead to tissue death.
Surgery also restores the functionality of affected organs, improves cosmetic appearance by correcting visible bulges, and provides a long-term solution that reduces the likelihood of hernia recurrence.
Risks of Surgery
Common complications include nausea, vomiting, urinary retention, sore throat, and headaches.
More severe complications include heart attack, stroke, pneumonia, and blood clots.
Infection of the surgical site.
Excessive bleeding (internal and external).
Pooling of the blood in the surgical site (hematoma).
Pain, swelling, itchiness or tenderness at the site of incision.
Fever.
Headaches and drowsiness after the surgery.
Recurrence of the hernia (long-term).
Development of painful keloids (raised scarring) long-term.
All our hernia repairs are done by laparoscopy. Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to repair the hernia with only small external cuts, rather than a large open incision. This technique involves the use of a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, to view the hernia on a screen and repair it with small tools.
Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation, where we discuss your condition, the specific type of hernia, the most effective treatment approach, and answer all your questions. Prior to surgery, we'll guide you through the preparation procedures, including any necessary lifestyle adjustments or pre-operative steps needed to ensure a successful repair.
During laparoscopic hernia surgery, the surgeon makes several small incisions near the hernia. A laparoscope is inserted through one incision, guiding the surgeon, who then repairs the protruding tissue with permanent sutures and/or a surgical mesh, thereby reinforcing the weakened area.
At our clinic, hernia repair surgery is an outpatient procedure. The minimally invasive techniques we use minimize the impact on your body and allow you to return home the same day. Our state-of-the-art operating facilities are designed for maximum safety and efficiency.
Once you have had your hernia repaired, we provide detailed aftercare instructions and support to facilitate a smooth recovery. Most patients require a minimum of 1 week of convalescence, during which we'll monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise.
Choosing Clinique Michel Gagner for private hernia surgery in Montreal means entrusting your care to one of the field's leaders in laparoscopic surgery. Dr. Gagner and his team are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments, whether it's for hernia repairs, diagnostic surgeries, or any other procedure.
Our comprehensive approach to care supports patients from consultation through recovery, with personalized treatment plans designed to meet each patient's unique needs. If you're experiencing signs of a hernia, reach out to us to explore your options for a healthier, more comfortable future.
Did you know we have a support group?
Your questions and concerns have most likely been asked and answered in our support group. Moderated by our dietitian's, nurses, and staff. We provide you with reliable patient education and resources to help you throughout this life-changing process.