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Ventral Hernia Repair

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 6, 2024.

What do I need to know about ventral hernia repair?

A ventral hernia repair is surgery to fix a ventral hernia. A ventral hernia may be repaired if the hernia is preventing blood flow to organs or blocking the intestines. It may be done laparoscopically or open. Laparoscopically means that your surgeon will use several small incisions to fix the hernia. In an open repair, your surgeon will make one incision to fix your hernia.

How do I prepare for a ventral hernia repair?

What will happen during a ventral hernia repair?

What will happen after a ventral hernia repair?

Healthcare providers will monitor you until you are awake. You may be able to go home when your pain is controlled, you can drink liquids, and you can urinate. You may instead need to spend a night in the hospital. You will not be able to drive or lift anything heavy for one to two weeks.

What are the risks of a ventral hernia repair?

Your organs, blood vessels, or nerves may get injured during the surgery. You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. A pocket of fluid may form under your skin. This may heal on its own or you may need surgery to remove it. Problems, such as a hole in your intestines, may happen during your laparoscopic repair that may lead to a laparotomy (open surgery). Even after you have this surgery, there is a chance that you could have another hernia. You may get a blood clot in your leg or arm. This may become life-threatening.

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Further information

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