Hernia After Back Surgery? We Can Help.
In some spinal procedures, the surgeon will approach the back through an incision in the abdomen. This is known as an anterior procedure, such as an anterior lumbar spinal fusion. In rare cases (about 15 percent), the patient may develop an incisional hernia after back surgery.
What Is an Incisional Hernia?
A hernia occurs when there is a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Tissue and organs may bulge through that weak spot, causing a soft lump in the stomach or groin area. This is a hernia. An incisional hernia occurs in the scar from the surgical incision, often in the first year after surgery.
If you can feel a soft lump in your stomach or groin that goes down when you press on it or when you lie down, you may have a hernia. Though not always, some hernias can be painful, especially if you bend over or lift something heavy.
What Causes an Incisional Hernia?
Most surgical incisions heal properly and without complication, but an incision that does not grow back together tightly compromises the strength of the abdominal wall and may result in a hernia.
The risk of developing an incisional hernia after back surgery is relatively low. The type of suturing technique your surgeon uses to close up the would may play a role in whether you develop a hernia after back surgery. There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop a hernia after back surgery. These risk factors of hernia after back surgery include
- Age
- History of poor wound healing after surgery
- Other medical conditions that may affect healing
- Being overweight or obese
What is the Treatment for Hernia After Back Surgery?
A hernia will not go away on its own and must be treated with a minor surgical procedure in which the bulge is pushed back inside the abdomen and the wall or weak spot in the abdominal wall is repaired. Nicholson Clinic doctors are skilled at repairing hernias and relieving the associated hernia pain. If you are suffering from the pain of an incisional hernia after back surgery, contact Nicholson Clinic today to schedule an appointment. Early diagnosis is may help shorten recovery time and decrease the risk of the hernia returning.
