Incisional hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed to correct a hernia that appears at the site of an incision following an abdominal surgery. To repair the hernia, the hernia content is pushed back in and the muscles are stitched together. If the hernia is too large, the doctor will cover it with mesh and and then close the skin. While the surgery is considered safe, with complications considered rare, being informed will help you to ensure early detection and treatments of any problems that may arise.
Suture Area Pain
Prolonged suture pain that lasts more than a few weeks after surgery occurs in less than 2 percent of patients, according to the North Penn Hernia Institute. Pain medication and anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen are generally prescribed; however doctors advise patients to slow down or stop any activity that causes soreness or pain.
Fluid Buildup
It is normal for some yellow, red or light orange fluid to ooze or leak from the incision site shortly after the surgery. If the fluid smells foul, is thick or does not diminish after a day or two, you should call your doctor immediately. Fluid buildup is more common during more complicated surgeries where mesh placement is necessary, and a doctor will sometimes need to place a temporary drain to prevent fluid from collecting at the site of the surgery. These sorts of drains stay in place for up to four days and must be removed by a doctor.
Postoperative Bleeding
Postoperative bleeding can occur in less than 1 percent of all patients who have incisional hernia surgery, according tot he North Penn Hernia Institute, though the bleeding rarely requires repeat surgery. According to a National Library of Medicine article, this bleeding can lead to prolonged period of bruising or a bluish coloring of the skin around the sight of the incision.
