Description
Herniorraphy as a surgical procedure indicated for patients that needs repair on hernias. Occurrence ofhernia may be seen if a certain tissue or part of an organ bulges or constricted in a hollow part such as a bone near the abdominal area.
For an overview, there are three kinds of hernia that needs an intervention:
- Inguinal or femoral hernia – hernias located in the groin
- Umbilical hernia – hernias located at the navel area
- Incision hernias – hernias that formed as an effect of a previous surgery
Hernias actually may occur from birth or later in adulthood. There is a familial tendency for hernias that may be present in early childhood. Hernia repair is actually one of the most common procedures done as part of theelective surgery which means that it is done by a free will. Some instances may also mean that herniorraphy is indicated as an emergency surgery for hernias such as incarcerated hernia wherein the blood supply may be comprised on the surrounding organs.
Herniorrhaphy can be done into two techniques:
1. Traditional – The surgeon’s approach is from the outer part of the body. Local anesthesia can be used during the incision. The tissue or intestine is then manually brought back to its anatomical position. Stitches are done for parts of the area that have been torn or weakened over time. There are instances that general or regional anesthesia is utilized.
2. Laparoscopic – This approach involves a smaller incision only for the laparotomy. A laparoscope is used in order to visualize the hernia. When the surgeon has visualized the hernia, several incisions are done in order for the tools to remove the hernia can be inserted. The hernia can then be taken out. The advantage of this procedure involves smaller incisions done and faster wound healing.
Nursing considerations in Herniorrhaphy
- Place the patient in a supine position. The arms are also secured properly.
- Drape the patient properly exposing only the areas adjacent to the operative site. Proper draping can also prevent hypothermia during the surgery.
- Prepare the surgical instruments properly and aseptically.
- For indirect herniorraphy, a specimen must be collected for cytology studies.
- After the procedure, teach the patient or folks to maintain proper wound care.
- Encourage the compliance with the antibiotics as well as proper wound care.
