Robotic Ventral Hernia Repair
Discover how robotic ventral hernia repair could be beneficial for you.
What is robotic ventral hernia repair?
Robotic ventral hernia repair is a surgical method used to treat hernias that affect the wall of the abdomen. Ventral hernias occur when the abdominal wall develops a hole or tear. These holes or tears can develop as a result of surgical incisions. Parts of the intestines or abdominal tissue could push through those holes or tears.
A ventral hernia causes pain while a patient is coughing, lifting heavy objects, or straining from constipation. In some cases, there can be more severe issues caused by the ventral hernia including restricted blood flow, which can damage the affected tissue.
During robotic ventral hernia repair, our surgeons utilize robotic instruments controlled through a console and remote. The console provides the surgeon high-definition imaging of the surgical site. By manipulating the tiny instruments with the remote, the surgical movements are more precise.
Advantages of robotic ventral hernia repair
- Smaller incisions. Robotic ventral hernia repair reduces the size of incisions compared to traditional surgical methods. This lessens the amount of scarring.
- Low risk of repeat hernia. This surgical method decreases the risk of the hernia returning through the same hole or tear in the abdomen wall.
- Less pain. With smaller incisions and the quicker surgery time, patients often experience less pain after robotic ventral hernia repair compared to traditional hernia repair.
- Faster recovery. Less invasive surgery speeds up patients’ recovery time.
Possible risks of robotic ventral hernia repair
As with most surgeries, complications are possible with robotic ventral hernia repair. Those complications can include:
- Infection of the wound
- Injury of nearby organs
- Cardiac complications
- Kidney failure
- Return of the hernia
Preparing for robotic ventral hernia repair
There are several important steps to prepare for a robotic ventral hernia repair. Consulting with our surgical staff will make sure that you are ready for surgery.
- Ask if you should continue taking your medicine as some medicine can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Avoid consuming food or drink for at least six hours before your surgery.
- Clean your abdomen with antibacterial soap, but do not shave the surgical area.
- Have someone ready to drive you and stay with you after your surgery.
- Plan to eat a high-fiber diet to avoid straining while passing stool.
Call our office and talk with one of our specialists to learn more about robotic ventral hernia repair.