is hiatal hernia surgery relatively safe?

Question

just discovered i have a "small" hiatal hernia by a barium swallow. Although I know this situation is managable without surgery, is there significant risk in getting it fixed? Is the laparoscopic surgery option generally safer than the other methods?

Answer 1

All surgery has risks and whether it is minor or major surgery doesn't really matter because it depends on your body's reaction to the anesthesia and the procedure itself (please note...I am not referring to high risk or life-threatening conditions throughout this post). Most surgeries go off without a problem and you are closely monitored during anesthesia and the recovery period.

The main differences between the laparoscopic version and the regular surgery are:
length of incision
speed of external healing
length of recuperation
amount of pain
length of stay in the hospital

Even though every surgery is different, if you have had surgery in the past without complications, you would probably do well this time also. As with any surgery, the doctor and anesthesiologist should always tell you about any possible complications BEFORE you sign your consent form. If you have any questions, be sure to address them before signing.