What is Hernia?
A hernia happens when an internal organ or tissue in the body protrudes (bulges) through a soft or weak point that houses it. When left untreated a hernia may lead to a series of other complications. For instance, a hiatal hernia may result in other symptoms like severe acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

It is important to note that Some forms of hernia may require surgical treatment while others may require medications and other non-invasive procedures but this only depends on the severity and should only be determined after proper examination at the hospital.

What are the types of Hernia?
Certain types of Hernia are gender-specific that is to say there are some that will only affect men whilst there are also some Hernias that will only affect women. Hernias may also be grouped as congenital (present from birth) or acquired over time due to various factors.

Inguinal Hernias: These often occur in the lower abdomen very close to the pubic area. They occur as a result of the weakening of the internal inguinal ring.

Femoral Hernias: They are also known as Groin hernias and are more likely to occur in women though a small percentage of men may also experience it. A weakness in the lower groin causes the intestinal sac to slip out of position. Once this is diagnosed, immediate repair surgery is highly recommended to prevent any further complications.

Hiatal Hernias: They are caused as a result of the weakness in the muscle which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. This form of hernia may lead to acid reflux into the oesophagus from the stomach.

Umbilical Hernias: They are caused when a section of the intestine passes through the abdominal wall near the navel. it mostly affects newborn children.

Hernia symptoms
Symptoms may vary with respect to the type and location of the hernia. For instance, in the case of a hernia occurring within the stomach cavity, you may experience symptoms like distension in the abdomen, tenderness, abdominal pains and discomfort in the abdomen, ulcers, bleeding, and narrowing of the oesophagus. while in the case of inguinal hernia, a person may experience pains and discomfort in the groin region.

However, the most general symptoms that may be a cause for concern are;

-An unsual distension (protusion)

-abnormal swelling

-tenderness in the area of concern

-unusual discomforts within the area

What causes Hernia?
Hernias are mainly caused by a loosening, weakening and in most cases opening of the muscle that houses a particular organ/tissue causing them to push through the weak spot. Some are usually congenital (present at birth) while others occur later in life.

Hernia treatment in Nigeria
Surgery can repair a hernia by taking the organ or tissue back into position. The surgical procedure may typically also involve surgically reconstructing or eliminating hernial sacs.

However, please note that not everyone who has a hernia requires surgery. However, this can only be determined after a proper check and advisory from the hospital.

The best treatment option would depend on the type of hernia, size and location. Similarly, the Patient may also be able to opt for any of the treatment options after all the necessary factors have been taken into consideration.

There are 3 main types of hernia treatment which includes;

open surgery repair

laparoscopic hernia repair

robotic repair

Please note that they are all done under general anesthesia so you have nothing to worry about. Upon consultation, you will be able to fully discuss and explore all available treatment options.

Open surgery for Hernia treatment
Open surgery repair typically involves a surgical procedure wherein an incision is made and the hernia sac which contains the bulging tissue or organ is identified and put back in place after the soft spots/ walls are carefully lined with artificial meshes that promote strengthening of the soft spots that induced the distension/ bulge and promotes healing in the area.

Hernia treatment without surgery (Laparoscopy)
Laparoscopic hernia surgery/ repair involves the use of laparoscopic or simply put very thin instruments through the umbilicus Guided by a laparoscope which transmits images of the internal organs to a monitor, to locate and repair the hernia. it is usually less invasive and painful. In a laparoscopic repair, recovery is faster.

Robotic repair for Hernia treatment
Robotic repair is a recently developed procedure for hernia repair and is the least invasive option. It is very similar to laparoscopic surgery and very tiny to no incisions will be made. But unlike the Laparoscopic repair that uses two-dimensional imaging (2D) imaging, it employs more advanced three-dimensional (3D) imaging.

How to prevent Hernia
Some hernias are congenital which means that they may have been present since the birth of the individual but generally, adopting healthy lifestyle modifications can help one to prevent the possible occurrence of a hernia. Some of the ways to prevent hernia include;

Balanced intake of fruits and vegetables

Avoiding exercises that can make one susceptible to heavy coughs e.g smoking

See a Doctor when you experience persistent coughs and sneezing

Avoid consuming excess whole-grain meals

Maintain an ideal body weight through exercising and diets

Avoid extremely strenuous activities and lifting very heavy weight materials beyond your body size and form.

How much is Hernia surgery cost in Nigeria?
Surgery costs would usually depend on a combination of factors which include;

1. Type of surgery required

2. Age and gender of patient

3. Location and size of the Hernia

4. Location of Patient/ Choice Hospital

5. Experience of Surgeon

6. Aftercare/ post-op packages

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much is hernia surgery in Nigeria?

This depends on the location for the surgery, the hospital, the type of hernia and other factors like duration of stay at the hospital.

2. Can hernia be cured permanently?

Surgery is the permanent cure for hernia

3. Can I repair my hernia without surgery?

Surgery is the only advisable way to cure a hernia permanently.

4. What is the best treatment for hernia?

Hernias typically do not go away on their own therefore, surgery is the best and permanent treatment for hernia.