Open Herniorrhaphy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

• Discharge
• Inpatient
• Precare
• Español

An open herniorrhaphy is surgery to repair a hernia.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You feel lightheaded, short of breath, and have chest pain.
• You cough up blood.

Seek care immediately if:

• Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
• You are completely not able to have a bowel movement.
• You are urinating less than usual or not at all.
• You have severe pain in your abdomen.
• Your stitches or staples come apart.
• Your surgery area will not stop bleeding.

Call your doctor or surgeon if:

• You are a man and your testicles are swollen or tender.
• You have a fever.
• You are constipated.
• You see or feel a lump in the hernia area.
• Your groin or thigh is numb.
• Your wound is swollen, red, or has pus coming from it.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Medicines:

• Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Activity:

You may need to avoid heavy lifting until your surgery site heals. Ask your healthcare provider when you may return to your normal activities. Do not exercise until your healthcare provider says it is okay.

Prevent or manage constipation:

Eat high-fiber foods and drink more liquids. Some foods high in fiber include fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Healthcare providers may give you a stool softener to help make your bowel movements softer and more regular.

Bandage:

You may have a bandage over your surgery site when you leave the hospital. Do not take the bandage off until your healthcare provider says it is okay.

Follow up with your doctor or surgeon as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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