HERNIA REPAIR, FEMORAL-

General Information

DEFINITION--Closing or repairing a femoral hernia, an internal defect or weakness in the muscles of the abdominal wall. Sometimes, an intestine protrudes through the hernia defect, causing a noticeable bulge. If the intestine becomes trapped in the hernia defect, it is called an incarcerated hernia. If the intestine's blood supply is blocked by the hernia defect, it is called a strangulated hernia.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Groin (muscles and ligaments inside the lower abdomen next to the genitals); abdominal muscles; the opening allowing the femoral artery to pass from the abdomen to the leg.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Incarcerated hernia. This is a medical emergency.
• Strangulated hernia. This is a medical emergency.
• Uncomplicated hernia. Most surgeons recommend operating on a femoral hernia, even if no symptoms are present, in order to prevent the serious complications of incarceration or strangulation.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Excess alcohol consumption.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA

• Spinal anesthesia by injection.
• Local anesthesia by injection.
• General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the groin area. The muscles and tissue are separated and the hernia sac is opened.
• The contents of the hernia sac are replaced in the abdominal cavity. The neck of the sac is sutured and a "plug" of plastic webbing is used to close the defect.
• The groin wall is sewn shut. The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Recurrence of hernia.
• Damage to the testicle's blood or nerve supply, if the patient is male.
• Compression of the femoral vein.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--1 to 4 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Male virility should not be affected. Allow about 6 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• A hard ridge should form along the incision. As it heals, the ridge will recede gradually.
• Avoid heavy lifting.
• Don't strain with urination or bowel movements.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Resume sexual relations when able.

DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing. Increase dietary fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• A bulge appears in the groin, the thigh, scrotum, vaginal lips or surgical area.
• You become constipated.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.