The surgical robot is a game-changer in hernia surgery. Its smaller instruments reduce the risk of damage to surrounding tissue, and its dual camera gives your surgeon a clear 3D view.
In a recent study of robotic hernia surgery (r-TAPP), patients with a hernia had shorter hospital stays and less pain. This is because hernias were repaired more quickly and accurately. Contact Robotic Hernia Surgery now!
A hernia occurs when a weakness or tear in the abdominal muscle wall allows a portion of internal tissue (like belly fat or part of your intestines) to protrude into the abdomen and form a bulge. The hernia is often seen as a pouch in the groin, but it can also appear in the belly button or rectum and, rare cases, in the ovaries and testicles.
Most hernias don’t cause symptoms, but the risk increases over time. If the hernia gets bigger, it can push a piece of your intestine into the gap and become trapped. The resulting inflammation and pain may be severe. In extreme cases, an incarcerated hernia may be so constricted that its blood supply is cut off, leading to tissue death (strangulation).
Hernias are common and usually not serious, but it is important to see your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Most hernias can be fixed with surgery, and it is best to get the hernia repaired before it becomes painful or dangerous.
During robotic hernia surgery, your surgeon makes 4-6 small incisions in your abdomen. They then insert a narrow tube with a camera, called a laparoscope, into one of the incisions. This camera gives them a high-definition 3D view inside your body. Using this view, they maneuver the robot to repair the hernia. They may need to release muscles or tendons, and they can place mesh to strengthen the area.
In some cases, the hernia cannot be closed surgically and may recur. Hernia recurrence is more likely to happen in smokers, and hernias can also return as people get older or gain weight. However, with proper diet and exercise, hernias can be prevented from returning.
While hernias can develop for many reasons, the most common are pregnancy, coughing, heavy lifting, and obesity. Your doctor can recommend lifestyle changes to prevent hernias from developing, but if you have a hernia, you will need to have it repaired.
What is the procedure like?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and requires a brief stay in the hospital. Upon arrival, you will sign consent forms and change into a hospital gown and cap. Your abdomen will be inflated with carbon dioxide or a balloon to create space for the surgeon to work. Once the surgeon has access, he will remove the hernia contents and place a piece of mesh to support the weak area of the abdominal wall.
The mesh may be made from a variety of materials, including polypropylene or polyester. While there is no convincing data supporting one type of mesh is superior to another, it’s important that your doctor use a mesh that is approved for hernia repair. In addition to the type of mesh used, your doctor may also use different types of hernia repair techniques. These include atraumatic hernia repair and hernia patching.
Your surgeon will discuss these options with you and determine the best hernia repair technique for your needs. If you are considering robotic hernia repair, it is important to find a surgeon with experience using the da Vinci system.
During the procedure, your doctor will make three to four small incisions around the hernia. Through one of the incisions, he will insert a laparoscope, an instrument with a camera on its end. This allows him to see the hernia and surrounding tissue and guide his other surgical tools.
With the da Vinci robot, your doctor will use precise instruments through the other incisions. The robotic system translates your surgeon’s hand movements into real-time motion on the video monitor, which allows him to bend and rotate the instruments precisely. In addition, it reduces the amount of pressure required to perform the operation.
As you recover, your doctor will provide you with specific instructions regarding pain management. You will likely be able to return to work within a week and engage in normal activities within three weeks. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and to schedule and attend all of your follow-up appointments.
Hernias are a common problem, but they can be prevented with regular exercise and by maintaining a healthy weight. If you are experiencing pain, discomfort or a feeling of heaviness in the affected area, talk with your doctor about hernia surgery.
What is the recovery like?
If you’ve had a hernia for a while and your symptoms haven’t improved, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery can help relieve the pain and prevent a hernia from getting bigger.
During the surgery, your surgeon will make small incisions (cuts) in your abdomen. They will then inflate your abdomen with air so they can see the organs inside. Then, they’ll put a thin, lighted scope (tube) called a laparoscope into one of the incisions. This gives them a clear view of the area and allows them to use tools to fix the hernia.
After your hernia surgery, you’ll need to rest and recover for a few weeks. You’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise during this time. Your doctor will give you a full set of discharge instructions before you leave the hospital. Be sure to read them carefully and ask your doctor or nurse if you have any questions.
You can begin to eat normal food again after a few days. You can also begin to do mild exercises such as walking and climbing the stairs, but don’t do anything too strenuous.
It’s important to stay hydrated after surgery. Try to drink plenty of fluids, especially water and juice. You can also start eating fruits and vegetables again once you feel up to it.
Most people can return to work and their normal daily activities about a week after surgery. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor about when you’re ready to go back to work. This will depend on your job, how much you need to move around, and how much pain medication you’re taking.
If you have a desk job, you may be able to return to work sooner. People with more physically demanding jobs will need more time off. It’s important to talk to your doctor about this so they can help you get back to work safely. It’s also a good idea to ask your doctor when it will be safe for you to drive. This is because you might still be groggy from the anesthesia and pain medication.
What is the cost?
The cost of hernia surgery is a major concern for many patients. While most commercial insurers and Medicare cover hernia repair, the procedure can still be expensive. The cost depends on a number of factors, including surgeon and hospital fees, as well as the complexity of hernia surgery.
For example, a 2022 study found that the price before insurance for laparoscopic repair of an initial inguinal hernia nearly doubles when performed at a hospital instead of an ambulatory surgery center. In addition, the patient’s 20% out-of-pocket coinsurance also increases. Likewise, robotic hernia surgery may cost up to $1,000 more than traditional hernia repairs.
Several factors can influence the final hernia surgery cost, including surgeon experience and expertise, type of hernia surgery, and complication rate. However, one of the biggest factors is whether or not a patient has health insurance. If a patient does not have health insurance, doctors and hospitals are often free to charge whatever they want. This is why it is important for hernia patients to find a surgeon and hospital that accepts their insurance plan.
If you have insurance, it is a good idea to review the coverage of your hernia surgery before the operation. This will allow you to avoid any surprises down the road. You should also make sure that you and your surgeon are on the same page about the hernia surgery costs.
It is also a good idea to ask your hernia surgeon how much the hernia repair will cost without insurance, or if they have a finance option available. Typically, a hernia surgeon will have a set fee for the procedure, which is what they expect to be paid by the insurance company. However, this does not always happen.
The hernia surgery fee should be clearly outlined in the written contract that you receive from your hernia surgeon. It is also a good idea to take the time to discuss the hernia surgery costs with your doctor and to keep a record of them. This will be helpful if you get a medical bill that is higher than expected.
