Inguinal hernia: Mesh loosening (complication)

Share with your concerned loved ones
4.5
(18)

La inguinal hernia, a frequent challenge for many individuals, is characterized by organ protrusion through a weakened muscle wall.

Among the surgical approaches aimed at remedying this situation, the use of a mesh constitutes a key intervention.

In this article, written by a healthcare professional, learn the ins and outs of this procedure as well as the important implications related to inguinal hernia and the loosening mesh process.

The 4 key points to remember

1- Inguinal hernia, characterized by protrusion of organs through a weakened muscle wall, requires special attention due to its potentially serious implications.

2- At the heart of surgical treatment, the strategic use of a mesh aims to strengthen the muscle wall, thus playing a key role in preventing recurrences.

3- Medical advances have transformed surgical approaches, with Lichtestein's method emerging as a predominant solution for treating inguinal hernias.

4- Complications, such as loosening of the mesh, require careful monitoring of symptoms and immediate medical consultation, emphasizing the importance of the treatment options available.

Anatomy of the inguinal region

Before diving into the intricacies of inguinal hernia and its mesh treatment, let's take an in-depth look at the anatomy of the inguinal region.

The inguinal region constitutes the junction between thigh and abdomen, housing crucial anatomical structures such as:

  • Le inguinal ligament, a band of connective tissue extending from the pubic bone to the anterior superior iliac spine. It plays an essential role in supporting the abdomen and preventing inguinal hernias.
  • Le inguinal canal, a tunnel-shaped structure housing the spermatic cord in men or the round ligament in women. The spermatic cord includes the vas deferens, nerves and blood vessels supplying the testicles in men.
  • le femoral triangle, a space defined by the inguinal ligament, pubic tubercle, and iliopsoas muscle, houses crucial structures such as theartery and femoral vein, thus ensuring blood supply to the lower limbs.

Inguinal hernia: Definition

A inguinal hernia is a bulge or protrusion that occurs when the contents of the abdomen protrude through a weak point in the abdominal wall.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:  Inguinal hernia: How to recognize and treat it? (Know everything)

This weak point is usually located in the inguinal canal, which is a passageway from the abdomen to the groin.

By simplifying, imagine it inguinal canal like a doors : When weakened, unwanted guests, in the form of herniated tissue, may enter.

The inguinal hernias can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life).

The congenital inguinal hernias are more common among men, while the acquired hernias affect the two sexes equally.

Hernias are more likely to occur when there is increased pressure in the abdomen, such as during pregnancy, when lifting heavy objects, or when coughing.

In most cases, the inguinal hernias cause no symptoms.

However, some people may experience pain or discomfort, especially when standing or coughing.

If the hernia becomes large enough, it can cause nausea, vomiting, or intestinal obstruction.

Surgical treatment of inguinal hernias: Latest advances

In the contemporary management of inguinal hernias, medical and scientific advances have reshaped surgical approaches to optimize results.

La Lichtestein technique remains the predominant method, enjoying wide adoption due to its proven effectiveness.

Hernia repair using the Lichtestein technique:

Hernia repair, particularly via the Lichtestein method, remains the cornerstone of surgical interventions. This innovative technique is distinguished by several key aspects:

  • Structured reinforcement: la Lichtestein method involves the attachment of a synthetic mesh (pre-muscular prosthesis) to strengthen the weakened muscle wall, thereby minimizing the risk of recurrence.
  • Less Invasive Approach: Although classified as open surgery, the Lichtestein technique is characterized by smaller incisions, reducing tissue trauma and speeding post-operative recovery.
  • Personalization of treatment: This method allows precise adaptation to the specific size and location of the hernia, providing an individualized approach for each patient.

Good to know !
For a better visual understanding of the Lichtestein technique and its steps, we recommend that you consult this detailed article: Inguinal hernia treatment using the Lichtenstein technique under local anesthesia (with video).

Surgical options

Besides the Lichtestein technique, other approaches include laparoscopic surgery, where a camera and special instruments are used through small incisions.

Although less invasive, this method may be limited in certain cases.

Post-Operative Recovery

The post-operative recovery period remains a crucial aspect.

Most patients can return to normal activities after a few weeks, but it is imperative to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least six weeks.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:  Inguinal hernia: Recovery after surgery (tips)

This period allows for optimal healing and reduces the risk of complications.

Decision-making regarding the appropriate surgical method will always depend on the specific characteristics of each case, guided by the expertise of the surgeon and the individual needs of the patient.

Operative complications in inguinal hernia

Although inguinal hernia surgery is generally safe, a few potential complications can arise. These include in particular:

  • Net loose: If the surgical mesh (mesh) used to repair your hernia becomes loose, it may cause pain and require additional surgery to repair it. In some cases it may be necessary to remove the entire net.
  • Infection : Infection is a rare but serious complication of any surgical procedure. Signs and symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, warmth, drainage from the incision site, and fever.
  • Recidivism : In some cases, the hernia may return after surgery. This is more likely to happen if the surrounding muscles are weak or if there is a large hole in the abdominal wall.
  • Incomplete closure of the incision: In rare cases, the surgeon may not be able to completely close the incision. This can cause a bulge or herniation through the opening.
  • Sharp pain : Pain is a common complaint after surgery. In most cases, this pain is mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
  • Chronic Pain : permanent chronic pain is more common if the hernia was painful or the patient was younger. It is present in almost a third of cases.

If you suffer from a inguinal herniaIt is important to talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of surgery.

In most cases, surgery is the best option to treat a inguinal hernia.

Loose mesh following inguinal hernia operation: What to do?

When a mesh used during inguinal hernia surgery becomes loose, it raises crucial questions about post-operative management and next steps.

The mesh, often deployed to strengthen the weakened muscle wall and prevent recurrence of the hernia, can sometimes present complications.

Here is a clear guide on what to do if the net becomes loose.

Monitoring symptoms

First of all, it is essential to carefully monitor the symptoms. Signs such as persistent pain, swelling or redness in the operated area may indicate a problem with the mesh.

Prompt communication with the healthcare professional is crucial to assess the situation.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:  Inguinal hernia: When to walk after the operation?

Immediate medical consultation

If there is suspicion of loosening of the net, it is imperative to consult immediately the surgeon or healthcare professional responsible for the operation.

Un thorough review, often accompanied by medical imaging analyses, will be necessary to establish a precise diagnosis.

Treatment options

Depending on the severity of the situation, several treatment options may be considered. This may include surgical reoperation to repair the failing mesh.

Recent advances in surgical techniques offer more precise and less invasive correction possibilities.

Reassessment of treatment strategy

The loose net situation may also require a reevaluation of the overall treatment strategy.

Sometimes adjustments in the type of mesh used or surgical technique may be recommended to optimize long-term results.

Pain management and comfort

During the evaluation and treatment process, pain management and patient comfort remain priorities.

Personalized pharmacological measures ou physiotherapeutic can be implemented in parallel with the treatment plan.

References

Articles and resources used in writing this article

Inguinal hernia repair using the Lichtenstein technique under local anesthesia (with video) – ScienceDirect

Inguinal hernia - Wikipedia (wikipedia.org)

Hernia operation: with or without mesh? | BioHernia

Our article creation process at Groupe SANTÉPOURTOUS

Each article is written by a qualified healthcare professional following strict editorial procedures (More information). This article is regularly revised in the light of the most recent scientific evidence.

Was this article helpful to you?

Indicate your appreciation of the article

Readers rating 4.5 / 5. Number of votes 18

If you have benefited from this article

Please share it with your loved ones

thank you for your comeback

How can we improve the article?

Back to top