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Reasons for Hernia Repair
Hernias are repaired due to the pain they cause, and to avoid
eventual devastating complications. When the herniated internal organ slides
in and out of the abdominal wall defect, a scar reaction is started. Eventually,
this scar prevents the return of this organ back into its normal intra-abdominal
position. This is termed an incarcerated hernia. Within a short period of time,
the blood supply to that organ (most commonly intestine) is squeezed and
eventually completely interrupted. Thereafter, that portion of the intestine
begins to die, and this is termed a strangulated hernia. At this point, it is an
emergency to repair the hernia, and also to remove the dying or dead
internal organ. As can be seen , in order to avoid these serious complications,
hernia repairs should be performed shortly after diagnosis.
Small hernias can be
more problematic than larger ones. The bowel is more likely to become caught in the smaller
defect, while the larger defect allows the bowel to slide easier in and out of
it.
Small hernias are like being "slightly pregnant". Either you have a
hernia or you don't. Smaller hernias eventually become larger ones. Remember, a
hernia does not go away on its own.
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