Hernia Surgery

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernia Surgery in Tunisia

Hernias are a common condition in adults, but also in young children. In Tunisia, to treat this condition, a pediatric surgeon performs surgery. Hernia surgery involves repositioning the herniated organs into the abdominal cavity. Discover everything you need to know about this operation in terms of indications, diagnosis, procedure and post-operative recovery.

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernia: What is it?

A hernia occurs when all or part of an organ protrudes from its cavity through a natural opening. There are two categories of hernias: umbilical and inguinal:

• Umbilical hernia: this is when the navel shows a lump or mass caused by a part of the abdomen projecting through it.
• Inguinal hernia: this type of hernia occurs when the viscera pass through the abdominal wall.

In babies, a small congenital umbilical hernia is often observed, resulting from incomplete closure of the umbilical cord. Fortunately, in most cases, this hernia disappears on its own during the child’s growth, often before the age of 5.

What is the cost of inguinal and umbilical hernia surgery in Tunisia?

If you would like to arrange hernia surgery in Tunisia for your child, you can choose the Tunisia Destination Santé team. We collaborate with the best surgeons in the country in quality infrastructures. Do not hesitate to contact us to obtain a detailed quote.

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernia: Potential Complications

Young patients experiencing this phenomenon may experience significant pain and various complications. The child may have digestive problems (e.g., constipation), and the hernia is also unsightly. However, it is crucial to consider that an untreated hernia can worsen when it becomes more difficult to replace, and in the worst cases, it can become blocked and lead to tissue necrosis. This is why it is imperative to consult a specialist as quickly as possible, even if the hernia is small and does not cause pain. It is better to act preventively to avoid any future dysfunction.

What are the symptoms of an inguinal hernia?

An inguinal hernia is a medical condition where internal tissues protrude through a weakness in the abdominal wall near the groin. Symptoms vary depending on sex and severity. In men, a bulge or lump in the groin or scrotum may be observed. Sometimes, the hernia can descend into the scrotum, causing a feeling of weight or pressure. Pain or discomfort may also be felt, especially during coughing, physical exertion, or prolonged standing. The hernia may affect the testicle, causing pain or a pulling sensation.

In women, symptoms can be similar to men’s, such as a lump or bulge in the groin area. However, these hernias are less common and can sometimes be mistaken for other health issues like ovarian cysts.

For accurate diagnosis, consult a healthcare professional. While an inguinal hernia can be asymptomatic, it’s important to note that it may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, it’s always advisable to consult a doctor to assess health and determine the best treatment approach, even without symptoms. Treatment may involve surgery to repair the weakness in the abdominal wall. The decision to operate depends on symptom severity, their impact on quality of life, and the likelihood of complications such as strangulation.

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernia Surgery in Tunisia: What to Know Before Surgery

Upon the appearance of a hernia in a baby, the pediatrician will monitor the situation during the growth years. They will carefully monitor whether the hernia closes naturally. If it remains large or does not close spontaneously, they may recommend surgery. Generally, an abdominal ultrasound is not required; a physical examination is sufficient for the pediatric surgeon to confirm the diagnosis and assess the patient’s condition. However, in some situations, the surgeon may deem it necessary to use an ultrasound for better evaluation. During the initial meeting with the parents of the child undergoing surgery, the surgeon can explain in detail the different stages of the operation, as well as the postoperative care and any potential risks of the intervention.

How to treat an inguinal hernia?

Several approaches can be used to treat an inguinal hernia. Common options include a conservative medical approach or surgery. In some cases, a minor inguinal hernia can be managed without surgery. This may involve measures such as wearing an abdominal support, which can help relieve symptoms and maintain the stability of the abdominal wall. The doctor may also recommend avoiding activities that put excessive pressure on the groin area. However, it’s important to note that these conservative measures do not repair the hernia. They aim to relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

If symptoms are severe or there is a risk of complications, surgery may be recommended. This is generally considered the definitive solution as it involves repairing the weakened abdominal wall that caused the hernia. Fortunately, various surgical techniques are available. For example, there is open or laparoscopic repair, which uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to perform the procedure.

How does hernia surgery in children proceed in Tunisia?

To remedy a hernia, surgical repair of the abdominal wall, called hernia repair, is necessary. A child diagnosed with a hernia will be operated on by a pediatric surgeon. The surgeon will close the opening through which the elements have come out.

Whether it is an inguinal or umbilical hernia, the surgeon will have a choice between two main techniques to remedy the problem:

• The surgeon performs a laparotomy, and a small incision is made in the groin.
• They proceed by laparoscopy (a non-absorbable parietal prosthesis will be used).

Both procedures give the same result, and the postoperative course will be the same. However, the surgeon will opt for laparoscopy if the patient has a bilateral or recurrent hernia.

The surgical procedure is short and performed under general anesthesia. Most of the time, the patient goes home the same day as the operation. However, in some situations, one night of hospitalization is considered.

What is the duration of an inguinal hernia operation?

Several factors can influence the duration of an inguinal hernia operation, including the complexity of the hernia, the surgical method used, and the surgeon’s experience. On average, this procedure can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, but it can vary from patient to patient. Anatomical differences between men, women, and babies may require different surgical approaches. The duration of the operation may vary depending on the type of surgical intervention.

With open hernia repair, the doctor makes an incision. Laparoscopic repair uses small incisions and specialized instruments to perform the procedure. This technique may take longer due to its complexity but offers advantages, such as faster recovery and smaller scars. Before undergoing surgery, discuss the operation duration with your surgeon. Note that the duration of the intervention does not include the time spent on pre-operative preparation or post-operative recovery.

What is the pain like after inguinal hernia surgery?

After inguinal hernia surgery, some discomfort and pain is normal, although intensity and duration vary. This post-operative pain is temporary and subsides over time. Pain in the groin area is common. The surgical incision, tissue manipulation during surgery, and abdominal wall repair all contribute to this pain. Pain may occur with movement, coughing, or physical exertion, and even at rest, but it will gradually decrease.

Men may experience testicle pain due to the proximity of the groin and scrotal structures. However, this is often temporary and resolves with healing. Analgesics are prescribed to relieve discomfort. Follow medical instructions and take medications as directed. Cold compresses can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Contact the medical team for severe pain, redness, swelling, or unusual symptoms to ensure there are no complications.

What are the after-effects of inguinal and umbilical hernia surgery in Tunisia?

While complications are rare, be prepared for potential issues that may arise after surgery. These include:

• Potentially intense and lasting pain for several weeks,
• Difficulties with wound healing,
• Complications related to anesthesia.

Contact and Quote Request for Hernia Surgery

To arrange umbilical or inguinal hernia surgery in Tunisia for your child, trust the professionals at Tunisia Destination Santé. We assist you every step of the way. Our team is available to assist you with all procedures. Contact us for more information and a free, no-obligation quote.