A hernia in Singapore is a painful bulge of an organ or tissue that pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle. While it is not immediately life-threatening, it requires prompt treatment to prevent complications. The prevalence of cases for hernia in Singapore has led to increased awareness and early detection. Diagnostic services for hernia in Singapore are available in our clinic..
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of hernias and the available treatment options in Singapore.
Different types of hernias in Singapore that affect different parts of the body.
- Inguinal hernia: This is the most common type. It occurs in the groin when a section of the intestine or abdominal muscle pushes through the lower abdominal wall.
- Femoral hernia: Similar to inguinal hernias but not as common, femoral hernias appear lower in the groin, near the thigh.
- Umbilical hernia: This type occurs around the navel when part of the intestine pokes out of the abdominal wall.
- Hiatal hernia: It develops when the upper part of the stomach pushes itself through the diaphragm and into the chest.
- Incisional hernia: After surgery, the tissue around the incision may weaken, causing an incisional hernia.
- Epigastric hernia: This type occurs between the navel and the chest when fatty tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Hernia Treatment In Singapore
Choosing the right hernia treatment in Singapore depends on the type of hernia, your overall health, and the potential risks that come with each treatment method.
Severity and symptoms
Some hernias may initially cause little to no symptoms but can grow and become more painful. Symptoms to look out for include:
- An obvious bulge in the abdomen or groin
- Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting something heavy or coughing
- A feeling of weakness or pressure in the affected area
- Nausea or vomiting in more severe cases
Hernias that cause severe pain, rapid growth of the bulge, or symptoms like vomiting may indicate complications such as a strangulated hernia, which requires emergency surgery.
Patient's health and medical history
The patient’s health and medical history are also crucial when deciding on the appropriate treatment. Patients with long-term, chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease and respiratory issues may face additional risks with surgery. Meanwhile, patients who have had previous abdominal surgeries may need specialist care to reduce the risk of complications during hernia repair in Singapore.
Hernia Treatment Options in Singapore
Non-surgical Hernia treatments
For small hernias that cause mild symptoms, doctors may recommend non-surgical hernia treatments such as:
- Watchful waiting: If the hernia is not causing pain or discomfort, monitoring its progression over time is an option.
- Lifestyle changes: Avoiding heavy lifting, losing weight, and managing chronic coughs can help alleviate hernia symptoms.
- Supportive devices: Wearing a hernia belt or truss may provide temporary relief by keeping the hernia in place.
Non-surgical hernia treatments in Singapore can relieve discomfort, but they do not cure hernias. Surgery may still be necessary in the long term.
Surgical Hernia treatments
Surgery is the most definitive way to treat hernias, and two primary methods are open hernia repair and laparoscopic hernia repair in Singapore.
Open hernia repair
Open hernia repair in Singapore, also known as herniorrhaphy, is the classic method in which the surgeon makes an incision near the hernia to push the protruding tissue back into its original position, and reinforce the weakened area with stitches or synthetic mesh.
- Pros: Open surgery is highly effective and is often the best choice for larger hernias or those that have recurred after previous surgery.
- Cons: Recovery time is longer compared to laparoscopic surgery, and there may be more postoperative pain.
Laparoscopic hernia repair
Laparoscopic surgery needs only small incisions to be carried out. It is a minimally invasive method that is performed with a small camera to guide the surgical tools.
- Pros: This method results in less scarring, faster recovery times, and reduced post-surgery pain. It is ideal for patients with smaller hernias or those seeking a quicker return to normal activities.
- Cons: Laparoscopic surgery is technically more challenging and may not be suitable for all patients, especially those with large or complex hernias.
Choosing The Right Hernia Surgeon For Treatment In Singapore
Ensure you choose the right hernia surgeon for hernia treatment in Singapore for the best possible outcome. Here are some key considerations. A hernia specialist in Singapore will offer personalised treatment plans based on individual patient assessments.
Qualifications and experience
Look for hernia surgeons specialising in hernia repair in Singapore, especially those with experience in both open and laparoscopic procedures. The surgeon’s experience with different hernia types, particularly complex cases, is important for successful repair in Singapore. The training and experience of hernia specialists in Singapore are critical in minimizing surgery risks.
Questions to ask your hernia surgeon
- What are the risks and benefits of each treatment option?
- How many hernia surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
- What kind of recovery can I expect, and how long will it take?
- Do you offer both open and laparoscopic hernia repair options?
- What are the chances of recurrence after surgery?
Consulting with a hernia specialist in Singapore is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach. A consultation with a hernia specialist in Singapore typically includes an ultrasound or other imaging tests. Hernia specialists in Singapore emphasize the importance of early detection and timely treatment.
Hernia Treatment in Singapore
Knowing the different types of hernias and the hernia treatment options available in Singapore can help you make an informed choice about your care. The cost of treating a hernia in Singapore can vary, depending on the severity and type of hernia.
At Advanced Colorectal and General Surgery, patients receive comprehensive care for hernia treatment. Our team of specialists in Singapore is trained in diagnosing and treating hernias using current techniques and technology. Our hernia specialist in Singapore are renowned for their expertise in both diagnostic and surgical procedures. With a focus on patient safety, we ensure that every patient receives the highest level of care.
Book a consultation to learn more about hernia treatment.
