How are Inguinal and Femoral Hernias Treated in Women?
Hernias can occur in different ways in men and women and treatment methods may vary accordingly. Surgery is usually recommended in the treatment of inguinal hernia in women because women are more likely to have hidden femoral hernia. In this article, we will give information about the treatment of inguinal and femoral hernias and related details.
What Causes Inguinal and Femoral Hernias in Females?
Inguinal hernia occurs when there is a weak spot in the inguinal canal in the anterior abdominal wall. This canal contains nerves, blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. In women, the round ligament that supports the uterus is also in this canal.
An inguinal hernia occurs when the peritoneum, intestine or fatty tissue protrudes through this weak spot.
In women, inguinal hernia is less common because the inguinal canal is narrower. However, ageing and weak connective tissue can increase the risk. Femoral hernias occur in the upper thigh just below the inguinal ligament and are usually seen in women over the age of 65. These hernias may not be recognised at first, but may be manifested by pain.
When to Have Inguinal Hernia Surgery?
In women, surgery is recommended even for asymptomatic inguinal hernias because of the high risk of complications. Femoral hernias, on the other hand, must be treated as they can lead to intestinal compression and serious complications.
What are the Side Effects of Inguinal Hernia Surgery in Women?
Inguinal hernia surgeries are among the common surgical procedures. Although complications are rare, side effects such as postoperative pain and nerve damage may occur. Approximately 10% may have long-term pain and this is more common in women than in men.
What are the Different Types of Inguinal Hernia Surgery?
Hernia surgery is performed by moving the contents of the hernia sac back into the abdomen and closing the gap in the abdominal wall. There are three main types of surgery:
Meshless Open Surgery: It is performed through a long incision made from outside the body and the gap is sutured.
Open Surgery with Mesh: A synthetic mesh is used to strengthen the abdominal wall.
Minimally Invasive Surgery (Laparoscopic Surgery): It is done through small incisions and is performed with instruments inserted into the abdomen or its wall. In this method, a synthetic mesh is always used.
Which types of inguinal hernia surgery are most suitable?
Since women are more likely to have a recurrence of the hernia after open surgery, minimally invasive surgery is usually preferred. This method is advantageous because it strengthens the abdominal wall better and speeds up the healing process.
There are two types of minimally invasive surgery:
TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal): The operation is performed through the abdomen.
TEP (Totally Extraperitoneal): The operation is performed only on the abdominal wall.
Both methods give similar results and the postoperative recovery time is similar.
Things to Know After Inguinal Hernia Surgery
After hernia surgery using mesh, you can return to physical activity in a short time. Walking and light exercises are possible even after a few hours. However, you should avoid lifting heavy objects for the first 2-3 weeks.
What can you do if the hernia comes back?
The risk of developing another hernia varies from person to person, but is higher in women. For this reason, it is recommended to use mesh in the first operation. If a hernia develops again, minimally invasive surgery should be preferred, again using mesh.
Inguinal Hernia in Pregnancy
It is rare to develop an inguinal or femoral hernia during pregnancy. However, if this does occur, surgery is usually postponed until after delivery. Emergency surgery is only necessary when there is a risk of serious complications.
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