Umbilical Hernia Surgery - Procedure and Recovery Time

Umbilical hernia surgery is a medical procedure performed to repair a hernia at or near the belly button (umbilicus). Hernias develop when tissue or organs protrude from a weakened location in the abdominal wall muscles. Various techniques are available for umbilical hernia repair, including:

1. Open: Involves making a single larger incision near the umbilicus to access and repair the hernia.

2. Laparoscopic: Utilises small incisions and a camera to guide the surgical instruments, resulting in less tissue trauma and faster recovery.

3. Robotic: Employs robotic-assisted technology to enhance precision during the procedure.

Anatomy of the Navel

The navel is a slight abdominal depression, marking where the umbilical cord was attached during foetal development. The end of the umbilical cord connects a baby to its mother in the womb. The major parts include:

1. Umbilical Ring: This area contains the remains of blood vessels and connective tissue from the umbilical cord.

2. Umbilical Skin: The skin covering the belly button is often slightly different in texture and appearance from the surrounding skin. Depending on individual anatomy, it may form a small protrusion.

3. Internal Anatomy: Beneath the surface, the umbilicus connects to the abdominal cavity, surrounded by abdominal muscles and other structures. They help support the abdominal organs and play a role in breathing and movement.

Umbilical hernia surgery is recommended for individuals with hernias that cause significant symptoms or complications. The signs that may indicate the need for this treatment are:

1. Persistent pain or discomfort around the navel, especially when lifting heavy objects.

2. If the hernia increases in size or becomes more prominent.

3. When it becomes incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated (blood supply to the herniated tissue is compromised).

Before umbilical hernia surgery, patients are given instructions to minimise the risk of complications. They should follow preoperative guidelines regarding medications, hygiene, and arrival time at the surgical facility.

Before Surgery 

Before the treatment, the doctor may take umbilical hernia surgery before and after pictures to document the hernia appearance. These images are a reference point for assessing the surgical outcome and tracking the healing process. Other things involved are:

On the Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, it's advised not to use lotion, perfumes, or nail polish. Patients should also avoid shaving the surgical site to prevent skin irritation or infection.

Umbilical hernia surgery is recommended by a doctor after careful evaluation, considering factors like hernia size. Different techniques, such as open, laparoscopic, and robotic repair, serve distinct purposes. An overview of the process of each method is provided below.

Open Umbilical Hernia Repair

Open repair involves making a single larger incision near the umbilicus. It takes around 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

1. An incision is made near the umbilicus.

2. The hernia sac is identified and dissected.

3. The protruding tissue is pushed into the abdominal cavity.

4. The weakened abdominal wall is reinforced with stitches or a mesh patch.

5. The cut is closed with sutures or surgical staples.

Laparoscopic Umbilical Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic repairs need at least one hour to perform, including tiny incisions and a camera for guidance. The procedure involves:

1. Small incisions are made in the abdomen.

2. A camera and specialised instruments are inserted through the incisions.

3. It pushes the tissue that is sticking out back into the abdominal cavity.

4. A mesh patch is placed over the hernia defect and secured in place.

5. The cuts are closed.

Robotic Umbilical Hernia Repair 

Robotic repair utilises robotic-assisted technology for enhanced precision. The procedure takes around 5 hours or longer.

1. Small incisions are made in the abdomen.

2. Robotic arms with surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions.

3. The hernia sac is carefully dissected using robotic instruments.

4. The protruding tissue is reduced, and a mesh patch is placed over the hernia defect.

5. The mesh is secured and put in place with sutures or surgical staples.

6. The incisions are closed, and the robotic arms are removed.

After umbilical hernia surgery, patients experience some discomfort and may be prescribed pain medication as needed. The entire recovery process is described below. 

The Recovery Process in Hospital 

Following umbilical hernia surgery, patients are monitored in the recovery room for a few hours until fully awake and stable. As it's an outpatient procedure, they are discharged the same day. However, if the hernia is large, some repairs could necessitate a brief hospital stay. 

For at least 24 hours following the treatment, adults must refrain from consuming alcohol, operating machinery, driving, and signing legal papers. This is because general anaesthetic may affect your ability to coordinate and reason.

Recovery Process/Expectation after Hospital Discharge 

After the treatment, one can expect an umbilical hernia surgery recovery time of 4 to 6 weeks. At home, the patient may experience bruising, tenderness, and swelling around the wound. This usually improves within a week. Other pointers to consider during this period are:

1. Loose clothing may help in relieving soreness.

2. Pain surrounding the wound may occur when straining on the toilet. This risk can be reduced by eating fibre-rich foods and staying hydrated.

3. After surgery, children would have to skip approximately a week of school.

4. Patients may resume their regular activities in two weeks.

5. Heavy lifting and exhausting activities must be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.

First Follow-up Appointment

Patients usually have their first follow-up appointment approximately 7 to 14 days after umbilical hernia surgery. During this visit, the doctor removes sutures and examines the wound to ensure proper healing. It's an essential step in the recovery process to monitor progress and address potential concerns.

With a low recurrence rate of approximately 1.2%, modern methods like robotic umbilical hernia surgery offer several benefits for patients. The points highlighting the advantages are:

1. Safety: The surgery is generally safe, with low rates of complications (less than 1% in case of paediatric hernia repairs) when performed by experienced surgeons.

2. Low Recurrence Rate: When performed using appropriate techniques and materials, umbilical hernia surgery has a recurrence rate of just 2.7% in mesh repair. In contrast, for non-mesh repair, it is 27%. 

3. Minimally Invasive Options: Many surgeries can be performed using techniques such as laparoscopy. This results in smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.

4. Daycare Treatment: Most umbilical hernia surgeries, like laparoscopic and robotic, are outpatient. This allows patients to go home on the same day as surgery.

Despite its benefits, umbilical hernia surgery carries risks of complications. The early complications occur in approximately 6.7% of cases with traditional sutures. However, through mesh repair, the rate goes down to 4.3%. The potential issues associated with the treatment are:

1. Potential risk of infection at the surgical site, which may require antibiotic treatment.

2. Excessive bleeding may necessitate further intervention or blood transfusion.

3. Fluid buildup in the surgical area can lead to the formation of a seroma, requiring drainage.

4. Blood accumulation in the treated area can form a hematoma, causing swelling and discomfort.

5. Adverse reactions to anaesthesia, such as respiratory or cardiovascular issues.

When to consult a doctor?

It's important to consult a doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms before or after umbilical hernia surgery. The situations that warrant a visit are:

1. Persistent or worsening pain around the surgical site or abdomen.

2. Fever above 100.4°F (38°C).

3. Increase in redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage (such as pus) from the incision site.

4. Consistent nausea, vomiting, or difficulty tolerating food or fluids.

5. Troubled breathing, chest pain, or other respiratory symptoms.

Delaying surgery increases the possibility of the hernia being trapped or strangulated (blood supply to the herniated tissue is interrupted). Symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and the visible protrusion of the hernia may also worsen over time.

The cost of umbilical hernia surgery can differ due to factors such as the technique and additional medical expenses. On average, the price one can expect is:

Note: The estimate mentioned above is subject to change. To get accurate information, contact HexaHealth.

Factors that may affect the umbilical hernia surgery cost include:

1. Surgeon's Reputation: Doctors with extensive experience may charge higher fees for their services.

2. Hospital or Surgical Facility Fees: The charges associated with the use of the operating room and medical equipment can significantly impact the overall bill.

3. Pre and post-operative Evaluation: Costs associated with examinations and consultations may add to the total expense. Follow-up appointments, medications, and any necessary additional treatments can also contribute to total expense.

4. Health Insurance: The extent of coverage and deductibles can influence out-of-pocket expenses for the patient.

Understanding the techniques available for umbilical hernia repair is crucial for patients considering this surgery. From the traditional open approach to the minimally invasive laparoscopic methods, each procedure offers unique advantages.

HexaHealth provides top-notch assistance throughout the process. We offer expert advice on everything from which surgery is best for umbilical hernia to locating skilled doctors to perform the procedure. Get in touch!