Hernia surgery is a procedure used to correct an abdominal defect that causes organs or tissues to push through muscles. The condition results in a visible bulge, usually around the groin or scrotum, and can cause pain. Hernia surgery or repair can be performed using different procedures.
The procedures are open hernia surgery, as well as laparoscopic and robotic surgery. As with all surgery, preparation is essential for the success of the procedure. There are several things that you can do to prepare for hernia surgery.
Outpatient Procedure
In most cases, hernia procedures take place on an outpatient basis. This means you will not need to spend the night in the hospital. The surgeon performs the procedure in an operating room, and you will be under general or local anesthesia, depending on the procedure used.
Preoperative preparation will include bloodwork, X-ray, EKG, and a medical evaluation based on your age and condition. Your surgeon will review the risks and benefits of the procedure with you.
Knowing What to Wear
You will receive instructions from your healthcare provider on what to wear. As a rule, you should wear loose-fitting clothes that will allow you to be comfortable after the procedure. Choose something that will not put pressure on the surgical site.
You will not need to carry a change of clothes. Wear shoes that you can slip on with ease and avoid those that will require you to bend. Avoid jewelry or anything easy to misplace or lose.
Shower Before the Operation
You should shower or bathe the morning or evening before the surgery. Clean your abdomen carefully using a mild anti-bacterial soap. Remember, the next time you can take a shower will be 24 hours after the surgery. If you have difficulties with bowel movements, talk to the surgeon and find out if you can get an enema.
Dietary Restrictions
As with all types of surgery, you need to watch what you eat or drink before the procedure. Preparation for the surgery includes strict dietary rules such as abstaining from all food and liquids before the surgery.
Do not drink water, coffee, or any other fluid for at least six hours before the procedure. Food can interfere with the digestive system, causing complications during surgery. Avoid eating anything for six hours before the surgery.
Taking Medications
If you are on any medication, you need to inform the surgeon during the medical assessment. The doctors will need your medical history, as well as a list of medications that you may be taking.
If there are medications that you need to take before surgery, talk to the doctor about them. Find out if you can take a sip of water with the pills. You may also require a prescription for drugs that need taking before the procedure to aid with the surgery.
If you are pregnant, make sure that you inform the doctor before the procedure. Talk to the doctor and find out the things that you need to bring before the surgery. These will include items like your insurance information and a list of medications you are taking. If you are a smoker, you need to quit before the surgery. Smoking can affect the results of the procedure.
For more on preparing for hernia surgery, visit the Laparoscopic Surgical Center of New York at our office in New York, New York. You can call (212) 879-6677 today to schedule an appointment.
