I have surgery planned for the end of the month. The doctor said I'll get general anesthesia. He also said that he'd make a two-inch slit and put mesh (like a tiny fence) to keep things in place in the future. He said the results from laparoscopy have been good on other procedures but not as good with hernias, so he doesn't do them anymore for hernias.
I have a few questions--Has anyone had the mesh put in? Any thoughts on the two-inch scar v. laparoscopy? Is general anesthesia normal for the procedure?
Also, how long before I can drive, work (at a desk), and play basketball/football?
Thanks for any insights.
2007-01-17 01:41:32 · 3 answers · asked by Stuck in the Middle Ages 4 in Health ➔ Other - Health
Hi. I am a surgeon's assistant...and we do AMAZING laparoscopic hernia repairs. Wish you lived in Illinois; I'd refer you. But, since you are already scheduled for conventional hernia repair: yes, general anesthesia would be the wise choice. He told you he'd use mesh; very, very common. We also do. Makes for an excellent repair. I'd be amazed if he can do it through only a 2 inch incision though. They're usually a little larger; remember, since it's considered an "open" (versus laparoscopic) he has to have enough room to work in there. So, don't be alarmed if you do have a larger incision. It's perfectly normal. He'll most likely prescribe some Vicodin for post-op pain. You'll have some pain/swelling in the groin, possibly the testicles. He'll probably excuse you from work for 1-2 weeks. It will be a couple months before you play sports, so hang it there for that, okay? Good luck with your surgery!
2007-01-17 02:59:42 · answer #1 · answered by Ms. "D" 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Our son had hernia repair surgery when he was 3wks old. They didn't even stitch him up, they used surgical glue! The incision is indeed very small. The mesh is used to keep the hernia from recurring. Also, it really does need to be done under general anesthesia, you wouldn't want to feel any of this, trust me. As for activities following the surgery. It is best to ask your Dr. Most abdominal surgeries need about 6wks to heal enough for normal activities. Driving, is usually OK after 2-3wks. Again, you should ask your Dr. Our son wasn't driving at the time, so I honestly don't know. It is an outpatient surgery, even for litle babies. That doe not mean it isn't still major surgery. Give yourself time to heal.
Good Luck
2007-01-17 01:53:35 · answer #2 · answered by jodi g 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My son had an emergency surgery at 8 months old. The situation was scary but as far as the anesthesia goes, the doctors and nurses took great care of him and he bounced back very quickly. My daughter also had a surgery at two years old. They gave her some "princess juice" and then she got very funny and was making my husband and I laugh. That made it much easier to let the doctors take her when it was time for the surgery. I will say that when she came out of the anesthetic it wasn't quite as fun, but hang in there. I am sorry to hear your son has to have surgery, I know it is a very scary thing and I wish you the best.
2016-05-23 23:52:50 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋