Early Treatment Of Hernias Crucial To Prevent Serious Complications - SMC

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 26 (Bernama) -- Hernias do not resolve on their own and may lead to serious complications if left untreated, said Consultant General and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) Dr Soon Yuen.

He said delaying treatment posed a risk, as approximately five per cent of patients experience incarceration or strangulation, a condition in which the intestine becomes trapped and cannot be repositioned.

“This can result in serious complications requiring more complex surgical interventions. Otherwise, the lumps may increase in size, making surgical intervention more challenging. Seeking medical attention early improves recovery outcomes and quality of life,” he said in a statement.

Dr Soon elaborated that hernias develop when internal pressure exceeds the strength of the abdominal wall, exploiting natural or acquired weak points.

He added that hernias can present in various forms, with the most common types being inguinal and umbilical hernias, alongside less frequent varieties such as Spigelian and lumbar hernias.

“While some hernias may remain asymptomatic, others may cause noticeable swelling, discomfort, or pain. Patients often present either with a visible lump or pain.

“Key warning signs include a bulge or lump in the affected area, particularly in the groin or abdomen; discomfort or pain that worsens with physical activity, coughing, or heavy lifting; and, in cases of strangulation, severe pain, nausea, or vomiting,” he said.

According to SMC, hernias are often underestimated but more common than many realise, with 32.53 million cases of inguinal, femoral, and abdominal hernias recorded globally in 2019 alone, including 13.02 million new cases, primarily among men aged 50 to 69.

“Approximately 25 per cent of men in this age group experience an inguinal hernia during their lifetime,” it said in the statement.

Dr Soon said that treatment depends on the patient’s condition, with small, asymptomatic hernias being monitored without immediate risk, while those that grow or produce symptoms should be addressed with medical attention.

Open surgery remains an option for large or complicated cases, involving a larger incision to repair the hernia with stitches or mesh, while laparoscopic surgery, which uses smaller incisions, reduces scarring and recovery time and can include single-port surgery.

“This technique (single-port surgery) reduces scarring, postoperative pain, and recovery time compared to traditional and laparoscopic surgeries.

“Most patients can go home the same day, resume daily activities within three to seven days, and many don’t require painkillers,” he said.

Dr Soon also advocates for empowering patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and actively participate in their treatment journey.

“This approach improves outcomes and minimises the recurrence rate when patients understand and follow their care plan,” he said.

Effective hernia management extends beyond surgical intervention, placing emphasis on patient education and active collaboration with healthcare providers.

--BERNAMA

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