Where is the inguinal hernia located in men? Inguinal hernia: treatment in men without surgery

An inguinal hernia in men is a disease in which the walls of the abdominal cavity weaken and cannot hold the internal organs in place. In this case, an inguinal-scrotal hernia appears due to weakening of the inguinal muscles. As a result, protrusion of the organ under the skin is visible. Hernia occurs quite often, especially in older men.

The main factor in its occurrence is serious and regular stress on the abdominal cavity. In order to recognize the disease in time and prevent the development of complications, you need to know its symptoms. And for clarity, you can see what an inguinal hernia in men is in the photo. They will help present the overall picture of the disease.

What it is?

An inguinal hernia (IG) is a disease in which the abdominal organs protrude under the skin through natural openings in the groin area of ​​the abdomen. This is just one of the types of hernias, but in terms of frequency of occurrence it occupies a leading place among middle-aged and older people.

Causes

An inguinal hernia can occur for a variety of reasons. The following factors are identified that can contribute to the appearance of this disease in men:

  1. , which will put a strong load and pressure on weakened areas of the abdomen, which in turn can give impetus to the formation of an inguinal hernia.
  2. A person's hereditary predisposition to an inguinal hernia is revealed in the anatomical weakness of the abdominal muscle tissue.
  3. Some diseases of the intestinal system can increase intra-abdominal pressure, especially when they cause constant constipation in the sick person.
  4. Excessive physical activity, which puts strong pressure on the abdominal cavity (and increases intra-abdominal pressure itself). Lifting heavy objects, holding something suspended, and carrying heavy things in front of you is considered especially dangerous.
  5. Previously suffered injuries to the groin area, which caused a sharp weakening of ligaments and muscles.
  6. Sudden weight loss leads to the formation of empty volumes in the human peritoneum, which can push outward into the abdominal cavity.
  7. Excess weight can put excessive stress on internal organs, which increases a person’s tendency to develop an inguinal hernia.

As can be understood from the above, several factors can contribute to the development of an inguinal hernia in men, but the most common cause of this disease is lifting heavy objects. It is most quickly capable of leading to an acute condition in a person, in which he will require immediate treatment.

Classification

Depending on the origin of the hernial sac, hernias are:

  • Acquired - occur mainly in adults who experience severe physical exertion. They are both straight and oblique.
  • Congenital - occur when the vaginal process of the peritoneum does not grow, when the testicles descend into the scrotum before birth. They are only oblique.

According to the anatomical classification, hernias are of the following types:

  • Direct inguinal hernia is always acquired, never passes through the spermatic cord and does not descend into the scrotum; these are the signs that distinguish it from an indirect inguinal hernia. This hernia is very rarely strangulated. The sizes are usually not very large, on average 5-10 cm;
  • Oblique PG - characterized by the passage of the hernial sac as part of the spermatic cord with the subsequent appearance of a protrusion under the skin of the groin area, and in advanced cases, in the scrotum. Has a tendency to infringe. Sizes vary from 4-5 cm to giant ones - 30-40 cm;
  • Supravesical PG - occurs when there is weakness in the anatomical structures located immediately above the pubic bone. The protrusion is usually not very large;
  • Sliding hernia – already from the name it can be assumed that this type of hernia is characterized by incomplete entry of the organ into the hernial sac, but only by one of its walls. Often, only part of the bladder and cecum ends up in the hernial sac. That is why, with this type of hernia, some difficulties arise when suturing the hernial sac during surgery;
  • Combined inguinal hernia - with this type of hernia, the patient simultaneously experiences direct and oblique inguinal hernias, very rarely they are joined by a supravesical hernia.

Another important clinical classification on which the choice of treatment depends:

  • Irreversible PG - occurs when there is a long-term presence of a hernia, when the hernial sac is connected by adhesions to the subcutaneous fatty tissue. In this case, it is not possible to reduce the hernia into the abdominal cavity, but its contents are not tense and may slightly decrease or increase;
  • Reducible hernia - characterized by independent or manual reduction of the contents of the hernia into the abdominal cavity. Usually these are small hernias and at the initial stage of development, when adhesions between the tissues have not yet formed;
  • Strangulated hernia - if it is strangulated, it is impossible, even with external help, to reduce the contents of the hernia into the abdominal cavity. In this case, the hernial sac is tense and painful.

You can determine whether an inguinal hernia is strangulated or not by performing a simple task - holding the hernia with your hand, you need to cough several times. If at the same time the hernial protrusion increases and decreases, then the hernia is reducible. Otherwise, if, when coughing, the protrusion does not change its size and continues to hurt, it is most likely that the hernia is strangulated!

Symptoms

In men, the symptoms of an acquired inguinal hernia (see photo) are as follows:

  1. The formation can be straightened with regular pressure, and a characteristic rumbling sound can be heard.
  2. In a lying position, the protrusion usually either levels out or greatly decreases in size, and vice versa, in an upright position it increases and appears again.
  3. In the reduced state of the hernia, you can easily feel the enlarged inguinal ring through the skin.
  4. When the hernial sac descends into the scrotum, the corresponding half of the scrotum increases in size.
  5. With strong coughing, straining, or sneezing, the hernia increases in size and becomes tense; if you put your hand on it, you can easily feel it.

With a small inguinal hernia, there are no longer any symptoms that bother the patient. But with a significant increase in protrusion, the following ailments may appear:

  1. Pain in the lower back, lower abdomen - this occurs due to compression of other organs and intestines.
  2. Aching, prolonged pain in the area of ​​the hernial formation.
  3. Other signs of indigestion, such as bloating, loud rumbling.
  4. Constipation, this is also caused by compression of the intestinal loops in the hernial sac.
  5. In rare cases, if part of the bladder gets into a hernial formation, problems with urination may occur.

The symptoms of an inguinal hernia are quite obvious upon visual examination; the formation has a dense elastic consistency and is easily palpable on its own. It can be round, and if the hernial sac descends into the scrotum, then the protrusion has an elongated shape. As a rule, with a genetic predisposition, the body’s tendency to develop a hernia, a hernial protrusion may occur after lifting weights and intense physical activity.

Strangulated hernia

A strangulated inguinal hernia is accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • weakness, ;
  • nausea, vomiting;
  • bloating, lack of stool;
  • negative reaction to a cough impulse; when coughing, placing a finger on the inguinal ring, shocks are usually felt; if the hernia is strangulated, the impulse is not transmitted;
  • the hernia stops being reduced;
  • the hernial sac is very tense;
  • sharp, acute pain in the hernia area and in the abdomen.

A strangulated inguinal hernia is a very dangerous complication, so medical care should be provided as soon as possible. The operation must be performed as quickly as possible, since serious complications may develop, such as:

  1. Necrosis is the necrosis of parts of the intestinal loops or omentum that have fallen into the hernial sac.
  2. Peritonitis - with prolonged strangulation of the groin hernia, inflammation of the abdominal cavity develops.

At the same time, irreducible and large hernias, even without complications, cause discomfort to patients: they limit their activity and are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms.

What does an inguinal hernia look like: photo

The photo below shows how the disease manifests itself in men.

Diagnostics

It is almost always possible to suspect the presence of an inguinal hernia during a clinical examination. At the same time, its dimensions and localization are determined, and the degree of reducibility is assessed.

To determine the type of structures involved in the hernial formation, an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs, abdominal cavity, and scrotum is performed. Sometimes additional examination is required: irrigoscopy, cystoscopy, etc.

Treatment of inguinal hernia in men

The only treatment for inguinal hernia in men is surgery. During the operation, the doctor excises the hernial sac and performs plastic surgery of the hernial orifice, which prevents further relapses of the disease. Plastic surgery of the hernial orifice can be performed either using an aponeurosis (tension technique) or using a special mesh prosthesis (non-tension technique).

In most cases, removal of an inguinal hernia in men is performed with the subsequent use of a polypropylene mesh. It is installed in the hernial orifice and fixed. Subsequently, connective tissue fibers grow through its cells and form a reliable barrier for the abdominal organs on the way to the inguinal canal. Using this technique significantly reduces the likelihood of recurrence of the disease.

Surgeries for inguinal hernia in men can be performed either in the traditional open way with a skin incision, or laparoscopically - through a small puncture.

Laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia

Laparoscopic technology allows special manipulators to enter the patient's abdominal cavity through small punctures on the anterior abdominal wall. The advantage of the operation is that there are no scars left after it, and minor damage to the tissues is caused during the procedure.

  1. At the initial stage, the patient is given anesthesia. The intervention is performed under general anesthesia (anesthesia).
  2. Carbon dioxide is pumped into the abdominal cavity, due to which the anterior abdominal wall is raised like a dome, and conditions are created for surgeons to work.
  3. The hernial sac with its contents returns back to the abdominal cavity.
  4. A mesh is sutured from the inside to the abdominal wall. As a result of this, it more effectively holds the abdominal organs and prevents them from extending beyond its limits. Gradually it grows and is securely fixed in its place.

Due to a number of advantages, laparoscopic hernia treatment methods are gradually gaining popularity. However, if the protrusion is large, then surgeons prefer to work using traditional methods, since it is technically easier to perform the intervention. Therefore, it is necessary to contact doctors for help as early as possible and receive treatment using the most modern methods.

How long do you need to stay in hospital? Usually, after laparoscopy, a man can go home within 1 day after the operation, if no complications arise.

Complications after surgery

The most common consequences after surgery are:

  1. Seams coming apart.
  2. Hematomas. To prevent them, ice is applied immediately after surgery.
  3. Infection and suppuration of the wound. To avoid this, a course of antibiotics is prescribed.
  4. . Develops due to damage to the membranes of the testicle. A symptom of this complication is an enlargement of the scrotum on one or both sides. It can only be treated surgically.
  5. Damage to the spermatic cord. It occurs due to the fault of the doctor and is associated with the structural features of the inguinal canal. The spermatic cord passes close to the hernial sac, so if the doctor is insufficiently qualified, it can be damaged. This complication can lead to infertility.
  6. Damage to the hip joint. Occurs in case of rough sutures.
  7. Relapse. Recurrence of a hernia most often occurs due to patient non-compliance with the regimen.
  8. Damage to blood vessels. This is also a rather serious complication, as it leads to testicular atrophy.

Even an operation to remove an inguinal hernia in men that is considered easy and safe can be accompanied by complications. Most often, they arise through the fault of the patient himself, due to violation of restrictions during the rehabilitation period. Sometimes complications arise due to the fault of the surgeon, or arise as a result of the individual characteristics of the body.

Diet after hernia repair

A proper diet will speed up recovery. For the first few days, it is better to eat only liquid and pureed food in small portions. On day 4-5 you can go back to your normal diet.

You need to eat as many foods rich in protein and fiber as possible. The diet should include:

  • lean boiled meat (chicken, beef);
  • seasonal vegetables (raw or steamed);
  • dairy products, especially cottage cheese;
  • fruits and berries;
  • various porridges (buckwheat, millet, oatmeal, pearl barley);
  • Fish and seafood;
  • nuts and dried fruits.

It is better to exclude alcohol and coffee from your diet, as well as smoking.

What are the options for treating an inguinal hernia without surgery?

Taking into account the pathogenesis of the disease, it is believed that treatment for inguinal hernias without surgery is impossible. It should be borne in mind that the bandage also does not cure, but only helps to keep a reducible inguinal hernia in men in the abdominal cavity.

According to some doctors, treating an inguinal hernia in men with physical exercise has no therapeutic effect. However, many experts advise using exercises to increase the strength of the abdominal muscles, but only while lying on your back or sitting.

For example, exercises such as:

  • breathing with the stomach with a load (1-2 kg) on ​​the abdominal wall;
  • raising straight legs 30° relative to the horizontal position of the body;
  • raising the shoulder girdle and shoulder blades from a horizontal position (with hands placed on head);
  • squeezing a ball placed between the knees (lying on your back, with your knees bent), etc.

The most suitable yoga asanas for inguinal hernias are: uddiyana, pavanmuktasana, sarvangasana, etc. Uddiyana asana should be performed while sitting: exhale the air forcefully, “squeezing” it out of the lungs, drawing in the stomach as much as possible, hold for three seconds, and then take a deep breath through the nose. Repeat 5-6 times.

Prevention

The disease can be prevented by avoiding excessive physical activity and lifting heavy weights. It is important to take care of the stable functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, because constipation provokes hernias. You need to lose excess weight and do physical therapy. You should strengthen your abdominal wall by performing abdominal exercises and “bicycle” exercises. Therapeutic gymnastics should be given at least 20-30 minutes a day.

It should be noted the importance of maintaining a competent diet. You need to eat often, but little by little, and no alcohol. Instead of fatty and spicy foods, flour and confectionery products, you need to eat vegetables, fish and meat, boiled or steamed.

Forecast

Removal of an inguinal hernia in men, provided the operation is performed as planned, leads to a complete recovery of the patient and restoration of his ability to work in a short time. The development of incarcerated inguinal hernia and complications worsen the prognosis.

An inguinal hernia in men is a protrusion through the inguinal canal of the abdominal organs (omentum, intestinal loops, bladder wall) beyond their normal anatomical location. The inguinal canal is a small cavity formed by the internal and transverse oblique muscles, the inguinal ligament and filled from the inside with connective tissue fibers. In men it is wider and shorter than in women, so inguinal hernias in men are several times more common than in women.

Inguinal hernias occur several times more often in men than in women

Causes and risk factors

Inguinal hernias in men can be congenital or acquired. A congenital hernia is formed at the stage of intrauterine development of the fetus - after the testicle descends from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum, fusion of the vaginal sheet of the peritoneum does not occur, as should be normal. As a result, the inguinal canal remains open and, under certain conditions, intestinal loops and the omentum can be displaced through it outside the abdominal cavity - a hernia is formed. The vaginal process of the peritoneum forms the so-called hernial sac, in which the displaced organs are located.

Acquired inguinal hernias in men are caused by weakening of the abdominal wall muscles, which normally should support all abdominal organs. Predisposing factors to the onset of the disease are:

  • age-related changes in connective tissue;
  • muscle weakness caused by systemic diseases;
  • prolonged increase in intra-abdominal pressure (work associated with heavy lifting, chronic constipation, obesity, prolonged cough);
  • condition after surgical interventions in the abdominal cavity;
  • sedentary lifestyle (hypodynamia).

Under the influence of these reasons, a gradual expansion of the internal ring of the inguinal canal occurs, that is, a hernial orifice is formed, through which the internal organs subsequently pass with the formation of a hernial protrusion.

Forms of the disease

Inguinal hernias in men, depending on the characteristics of the anatomical structure, are divided into several types:

  1. Oblique. They can be either congenital or acquired. The hernial contents are located inside the structures of the spermatic cord along the inguinal canal. Oblique inguinal hernias, in turn, are divided into inguinal-scrotal (the hernial protrusion descends into the scrotum), cordial (the hernial sac is located in the inguinal canal at the level of the spermatic cord) and canal (the hernial sac is located at the level of the outer ring of the inguinal canal).
  2. Direct. This type refers to acquired hernias. They are characterized by the passage of a protrusion outside the spermatic cord through the inguinal space.
  3. Combined. They are quite anatomically complex formations, which consist of two or more hernial sacs passing through different hernial openings.
  4. Direct interstitial (subcutaneous). The hernial sac is located in the subcutaneous tissue of the aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle, without descending into the scrotum.

Inguinal hernias in men can be reducible or irreducible. With reducible hernias, the hernial protrusion may disappear, slipping back into the abdominal cavity. If the hernial sac becomes fused with the hernial contents, then the hernia becomes irreducible.

In men, the inguinal canal is wider and shorter than in women, so inguinal hernias in men are several times more common than in women.

Sliding inguinal hernias are also isolated. In this case, not only the parietal, but also the visceral layer of the peritoneum takes part in the formation of the hernial sac. Most often, the hernial contents of such inguinal hernias in men include the wall of the bladder.

If, after removal of an inguinal hernia in a man, the protrusion appears again, then such hernias are called recurrent.

According to the characteristics of the clinical course, inguinal hernias can be uncomplicated or complicated.

Symptoms of inguinal hernia in men

The first sign of the formation of an inguinal hernia in men is the appearance of a tumor-like protrusion in the groin area. It increases in size under the influence of physical activity, coughing, straining, and disappears or noticeably decreases when lying down. Over time, patients begin to complain of constant or periodic dull pain localized in the groin area or lower abdomen. The pain varies in intensity and can radiate to the lumbosacral region.

Over time, the hernial protrusion reaches a significant size and gradually begins to create serious inconvenience during physical activity and walking.

Other symptoms of an inguinal hernia in men are largely determined by which organs are included in the hernial sac. For example, a sliding hernia of the bladder is manifested by pain in the suprapubic region, frequent urination, pain or burning in the urethra. Elderly patients may develop acute urinary retention. When the cecum enters the hernial sac, the symptoms of an inguinal hernia in men include constipation, flatulence, and frequent intestinal colic. The formation of an inguinoscrotal hernia leads to a noticeable enlargement of one side of the scrotum.

When the hernial sac is compressed in the area of ​​the hernial orifice, a strangulated hernia develops. It becomes irreducible and sharply painful. Abdominal bloating is noted due to impaired intestinal motility and cessation of gas discharge, nausea and vomiting occur, and the general condition suffers significantly.

Inguinal hernia in boys

A congenital inguinal hernia in boys can be diagnosed in the first weeks of life. It is manifested by the appearance of a tumor-like protrusion in the groin area, which increases when the child cries and strains, and when the baby sleeps, in a relaxed state, it almost completely disappears.

With an inguinal-scrotal hernia in boys, there is an asymmetry in the structure of the scrotum due to a clear increase in one half of it.

According to the characteristics of the clinical course, inguinal hernias can be uncomplicated or complicated.

Strangulation of an inguinal hernia in boys threatens the development of serious complications (peritonitis, intestinal obstruction). In approximately 5-7% of boys, strangulation of the inguinal hernia leads to testicular atrophy and a decrease in reproductive abilities in adulthood, including the development of infertility. Therefore, it is very important to promptly identify and treat inguinal hernias in boys, preventing their strangulation.

Diagnostics

Patients with an inguinal hernia are examined by a surgeon. The doctor analyzes the patient’s complaints, and then examines and palpates the abdomen and groin area. During the examination, special attention is paid to the shape and size of the protrusion and the possibility of its reduction.

To determine which structures are included in the hernial sac, an instrumental examination of the patient is performed, including the following techniques:

  • herniography - x-ray examination of the hernial sac;
  • ultrasound scanning of the abdominal cavity, bladder and scrotum;
  • irrigoscopy - x-ray examination of the large intestine using a contrast agent;
  • cystoscopy - examination of the inner surface of the bladder using an endoscopic device - a cystoscope;
  • Cystography is an X-ray examination of the bladder after filling it with a contrast agent solution through a catheter.

An inguinal hernia in men requires differential diagnosis with the following diseases:

  • varicocele (varicose veins of the spermatic cord);
  • hydrocele (dropsy of the testicle);

Treatment of inguinal hernia in men

The only treatment for inguinal hernia in men is surgery. During the operation (hernioplasty, hernia repair, herniorrhaphy), the doctor excises the hernial sac and performs plastic surgery of the hernial orifice, which prevents further relapses of the disease. Plastic surgery of the hernial orifice can be performed either using an aponeurosis (tension technique) or using a special mesh prosthesis (non-tension technique).

In most cases, removal of an inguinal hernia in men is performed with the subsequent use of a polypropylene mesh. It is installed in the hernial orifice and fixed. Subsequently, connective tissue fibers grow through its cells and form a reliable barrier for the abdominal organs on the way to the inguinal canal. Using this technique significantly reduces the likelihood of recurrence of the disease.

Attention! Photo of shocking content.
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Surgeries for inguinal hernia in men can be performed either in the traditional open way with a skin incision, or laparoscopically - through a small puncture.

If there are contraindications to surgical intervention, for example, severe concomitant diseases of the cardiovascular system or old age, patients are recommended to wear a bandage, the size and shape of which is selected by the surgeon. Regular wearing of the bandage prevents further progression of the disease, reduces the risk of strangulation, but does not ensure complete recovery, since it does not allow getting rid of the root cause of the disease. It is important to use the bandage correctly:

  • wear only when lying down;
  • control the position of the inserts, which should be located exactly above the area of ​​the hernial protrusion;
  • monitor the cleanliness of the product.

Wearing a bandage for an inguinal hernia in men is contraindicated in cases of skin disease and the development of strangulation. In the latter case, surgical intervention is performed for life-saving reasons.

Possible consequences and complications

Complications of an inguinal hernia in men develop if it is strangulated. These include:

  • necrosis of a section of the intestinal wall;
  • coprostasis;
  • peritonitis;
  • ischemic orchitis.

Forecast

Removal of an inguinal hernia in men, provided the operation is performed as planned, leads to a complete recovery of the patient and restoration of his ability to work in a short time. The development of incarcerated inguinal hernia and complications worsen the prognosis.

If, after removal of an inguinal hernia in a man, the protrusion appears again, then such hernias are called recurrent.

Prevention

The main measures to prevent the formation of inguinal hernias in men are:

  • body weight control;
  • timely treatment of diseases of the bronchopulmonary system accompanied by intense cough;
  • active treatment of chronic constipation;
  • strengthening the muscles of the abdominal wall;
  • regular but not exhausting physical activity;
  • avoiding lifting weights, and if this is not possible, using special bandages when lifting weights.

Video from YouTube on the topic of the article:

One of the most common hernias in the abdominal region is the right-sided inguinal hernia. The physiological characteristics of the male body (weakened groin muscles prone to separation) are the reason that more than 90% of cases of such diseases occur in the stronger half of humanity. A characteristic sign of the anomaly is protrusion of part of the intestine in the canal area in the groin. The hernial sac sometimes contains part of the colon, sigmoid or cecum, greater omentum, bladder or appendix. If a hernia becomes pinched, then each of these organs is at risk of necrosis.

Inguinal hernia on the right in men: causes

The anatomical prerequisites for the occurrence of a hernia in the groin in the male half of humanity are determined by the peculiarity of the formation of the genital organs in the process of embryogenesis. Their development begins only at the end of the first three months of gestation. So, at the 20th week of pregnancy, the fetus already has formed external genitalia, but the testicles have not yet taken the desired position and are not lowered into the scrotum. This process is completed only before childbirth, at the end of the pregnancy. After the descent of the testicles, which occurs along the inguinal canal, small openings remain necessary for the passage of threads of nerves, blood vessels and the spermatic cord through them. It is through these holes that hernial growths subsequently protrude.

But anatomical features are not the only reasons why a right-sided inguinal hernia appears in men. If internal pressure increases, then the likelihood of a hernial bulge also increases. What can cause increased intra-abdominal pressure:

  • lifting heavy objects, other power loads;
  • rapid weight loss;
  • severe muscle strain during gastric emptying caused by constipation;
  • the presence of a chronic type of hysterical cough;
  • abdominal dropsy;
  • severe stage of obesity.

Also, an inguinal hernia on the right can occur due to jumping from different heights. The risk of pathology increases with a man’s age, because the abdominal muscles undergo age-related changes - fibrous tissue partially replaces muscle tissue, and the fascia of the abdominal muscles becomes shorter and thinner.

Signs of pathology

The main sign of the development of a hernia in the groin is a visually noticeable protrusion in this area. After performing strength exercises, jumping, and overexertion, the protrusion becomes even more obvious. If you take a lying position, the hernial bulge disappears. Ignoring the problem leads to the size of the hernia increasing several times.

A right-sided direct inguinal hernia in the early stages does not lead to intense pain. But if the patient is subjected to significant physical stress, then the pain syndrome can become unbearable. When walking, the bulge can cause discomfort to a person.

In most cases, the patient is able to independently recognize the disease by palpating the bulge. When palpating a hernia in the early stages, there should be no pain.

Forms of inguinal hernia

The disease has several forms, despite one localization. What forms of pathology are there:

  • Congenital - in this case, the hernial bulge appears from the inguinal canals that are not completely overgrown after the testicles descend into the scrotum.
  • Acquired - appears after intense exercise, jumping, coughing, sneezing, etc.
  • Direct - appears through the hole in the groin, located in its upper part. This type of pathology occurs in 30% of cases in male patients after forty years.
  • Oblique - a pathological bulge in this case enters the upper opening of the canal in the groin and exits through the lower one. If compression of the spermatic cords occurs, then infertility may occur.
  • Internal hernia (canal type) - enters the inguinal canal, located in the upper part and is recognized only after tension of the peritoneal muscles.

Based on which side of the groin the hernial bulge is located, a right-sided and a left-sided hernia are distinguished. There is also a combined type of pathology - bilateral.

Right-sided inguinal hernia: diagnosis

An inguinal hernia falls under the category of diseases of the digestive organs and has a code according to ICD 10 (the international classification of diseases in the 10th edition). Pathology is diagnosed in several stages. At the initial stage, the patient visits a surgeon who examines his complaints, conducts a visual examination and palpates the groin area. During the examination, the size of the hernial bulge, its shape and other features are determined. The doctor does a cough test (asks the patient to cough) as well as a straining test to evaluate the symptoms of a cough. If pain occurs when straining or coughing, this may indicate the presence of inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity.

To recognize the structure of the tissues of the hernial sac, an ultrasound examination of the canals, areas of the scrotum, pelvic organs, and peritoneum is performed. This study helps determine the hernial content of the bulge and the condition of the inguinal canal. Examination of the patient using X-rays, which involves the introduction of a contrast agent, allows you to obtain comprehensive information about the characteristics of the hernia. A blood test makes it possible to determine the presence of suppuration caused by pathology.

A right-sided inguinal hernia in men cannot be treated in any way other than surgery. To get rid of this anomaly, you will have to consult a surgeon. But in some cases, such a radical method of therapy is contraindicated. For example, if the patient is very old or extremely exhausted.

Inguinal hernia: surgery

If the disease is not in an acute period, infringement is not observed, then a regular operation is performed according to the schedule. Before surgical intervention, a detailed examination of the patient’s body condition is carried out, existing permanent diseases are treated in order to neutralize possible complications.

Operation methods:

  • Hernia repair (hernioplasty) of an operative nature - can be tension or without tissue tension. In the first case, the patient’s own tissues are used, which are pulled over the area of ​​the hernia protrusion, which creates a duplication in this place. In the second case, a synthetic material (composite or polymer mesh) is used for this purpose.
  • Laparoscopic method - the hernia is sutured using special micro-instruments and a camera with minimal trauma to nearby tissues.

The surgical intervention occurs in several stages: first, the hernial sac is isolated and separated from the tissues; then the bag is cut and its contents are removed. Then the bag is cut off and the wall is restored using the plastic method; at the final stage, the resulting wound and the hernial orifice are sutured.

An inguinal hernia on the right rarely recurs. The causes of a new pathology may be incorrectly selected treatment methods, non-compliance with the recommended postoperative regimen, constipation or severe cough, infection of the postoperative suture area. Often the cause of recurrent inguinal hernia in men is an adenoma that was not treated before surgery.

What are the consequences of ignoring the problem?

Incarceration (strangulation of the inguinal hernia) is the most dangerous and very common complication of the pathology. The acute period manifests itself in the form of pain in the groin and abdomen, pain in the hernial bulge, vomiting, weakness, chills, constipation, and the inability to straighten the formation. The symptoms are influenced by which organs are pinched in the hernial sac. If it is the colon, then the pain will be more pronounced. When the omentum is pinched, the pain is not so intense, and vomiting may be completely absent.

If the contents of the hernial bulge become infected and become inflamed, then the patient may develop a fever. The skin covering the hernia turns red and becomes hot to the touch. In this case, emergency hospitalization followed by surgery is necessary. If urgent measures are not taken in case of infringement, then necrosis (necrosis) of the organs present in the bulge occurs.

During an emergency operation to treat an inguinal hernia after cutting the hernial growth, the doctor carefully examines the pinched organs, identifying dead areas. These tissues are removed first, and the ring in which the pinching occurred is dissected. After this, the operational process proceeds as usual.

Inguinal hernia in men: prevention

Doctors unanimously say that prevention of the disease is the most effective way to avoid “acquaintance” with it. Regular sports, yoga, and swimming are considered preventative methods for the occurrence of inguinal hernia in men. Short daily walks will be of great benefit.

1. Monitor your diet and avoid constipation. For this purpose, it is necessary to follow a special diet with a high content of plant fibers. If there is difficulty defecating, then you should resort to laxatives.

2. Avoid increasing pressure inside the peritoneum. It is because of the jerking pressure on the abdominal walls that the organs from the abdominal cavity emerge into the inguinal canal.

3. Monitor your body weight, avoiding its critical increase.

4. Treat paroxysmal cough, which often causes an inguinal hernia in men.

It is also necessary to regularly perform preventive exercises designed to work the abdominal muscles. To strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, you can periodically tense and relax the anal muscles. Thanks to such exercises, the lower section of the peritoneal wall is strengthened.

Excessive abuse of alcohol-containing drinks is one of the factors influencing the likelihood of the occurrence of pathology. Patients who have already undergone surgery also need to take preventive measures to prevent relapses. Classes can begin as early as a month after surgery. But the exact timing, of course, is determined individually depending on the patient’s age, the complexity of the operation and other nuances. The intensity of training should increase gradually - do not suddenly overload the muscles.

Detection and treatment of inguinal hernia in men at the A.N. medical center. Begma

Our medical center provides detailed diagnosis and treatment of inguinal hernia using modern technologies. Clinic specialists carefully study all the details of the pathology and determine the most appropriate treatment method in each individual case.

If you have been diagnosed with an inguinal hernia on the right, do not hesitate with adequate therapy. After all, ignoring the problem can lead to infringement with all the ensuing circumstances, even the most fatal ones. The surgical intervention will be carried out at a high professional level, as carefully and painlessly as possible. You are guaranteed high-quality, qualified post-operative care and rehabilitation.

Leading clinic specialists with many years of experience in the field of surgery are waiting for you to conduct diagnostic procedures, make a diagnosis and carry out competent treatment. You should not expose your life to unjustified danger by putting up with the discomfort that this disease brings - it is necessary to solve problems in a timely manner, without waiting for them to worsen.

Find out the cause of discomfort in the groin area - sign up for a consultation with a phlebologist, candidate of medical sciences Andrey Begma. Only in December and January when registering online - a coupon for 850 rubles.

An inguinal hernia is a disease that affects men much more often than women, causing considerable discomfort to the stronger sex. In addition, you should know that this disease is fraught with serious consequences, so you need to know the enemy in person and control the situation, not letting it take its course.

What is pathology in men

So, what is a hernia? This term means prolapse or protrusion of internal organs or their segments through weak points of the body. They can be either natural holes or weakened muscles. In the case of an inguinal hernia in men, a loop of intestine protrudes through the inguinal canal, resulting in the formation of a painless, dough-like swelling that can grow or shrink depending on the circumstances.

The inner surface of the abdominal cavity is lined with strong connective tissue called peritoneum. The prolapsed intestinal fragments are enveloped by the peritoneum, forming a so-called hernial sac. As already noted, inguinal hernia in most cases is registered in men. This is dictated by the anatomical features of the male inguinal canal - it is less strengthened by tendons and muscles than in women. In addition, it is significantly wider and shorter.

Scheme of inguinal hernia formation

Since at the beginning of the disease an inguinal hernia does not cause the patient much discomfort, he is in no hurry to see a doctor, especially since it is necessary to take into account the special “love” of men for various medical procedures. However, this initially harmless swelling can become significantly more complicated if its “owner” neglects medical care.

Types of inguinal hernia

Basically, surgeons distinguish between two types of inguinal hernia - oblique and direct. In the first case of the disease, intestinal segments fall out through the spermatic cord and are located inside it, and in the second, the intestinal loops directly extend into the inguinal canal without affecting the spermatic cord. In surgical practice, direct inguinal hernias are much more common.

Direct inguinal hernia, a loop of intestine extends into the inguinal canal

An oblique hernia can be either congenital or acquired, while a direct hernia can only be acquired. The main reason for the development of a direct hernia is a violation of the tone of the musculo-ligamentous apparatus, which can be a consequence of muscle damage, the result of surgery or age-related changes.

In some cases, experts talk about a combined inguinal hernia, which combines both types of pathology. In this case, the patient develops several independent hernial protrusions of various types.

There is another classification of inguinal hernia in the medical literature:

  • cordial (the hernial sac is located in the scrotal area, but does not reach the level of the testicle);
  • inguinal (the hernial sac protrudes into the inguinal canal);
  • inguinal-scrotal (the hernial sac descends into the scrotum and is located at the same level as the testicle).

What reasons can cause the development of the disease?

The development of the disease can be caused by both congenital pathologies and a sustained increase in intra-abdominal pressure, as a result of which, over time, a hernial orifice is formed - a muscle defect through which segments of internal organs are pushed out. The following factors can lead to such a scenario:

  • persistent chronic cough or frequent sneezing;
  • constant constipation;
  • excess body weight;
  • lifting weights;
  • age-related weakening of the muscular-ligamentous apparatus.

How to identify and recognize: symptoms and signs

An inguinal hernia has the following symptomatic picture:

  • the appearance in the groin of a tumor that is soft to the touch and, as a rule, painless at rest, which can increase with straining, coughing, etc., and spontaneously disappears with a horizontal position of the body;
  • pain in the groin when straining and straining;
  • discomfort in the lower abdomen when moving, walking;
  • frequent constipation.

An inguinal hernia manifests itself as a feeling of discomfort in the lower abdomen

Is it dangerous

If treatment for an inguinal hernia is not started in a timely manner, the disease can become significantly more complicated. Possible complications:

  • strangulation of an intestinal loop - compression of the prolapsed part of the hernial sac by the hernial orifice;
  • hernia inflammation;
  • orchitis (testicular inflammation);
  • coprostasis (intestinal obstruction).

A strangulated hernia requires urgent surgical attention. Incarceration can occur either when the intestinal segment is overfilled with feces (fecal strangulation), which prevents it from being retracted, or due to a sharp increase in intra-abdominal pressure at the moment when a large volume of the hernial sac appears outside (elastic strangulation). Both types of strangulation are accompanied by severe pain, as a result of which muscle spasm intensifies and the hernia is compressed even more. If the patient is not provided with immediate surgical assistance, necrosis of the compressed tissue will occur.

Pinching of an intestinal loop by a hernial orifice threatens the development of inflammation followed by tissue necrosis

Symptoms that require immediate surgical attention:

  • uncontrollable vomiting;
  • sharp pain in the groin and/or scrotum;
  • the presence of a hardened hernial protrusion;
  • bloating, fecal retention;
  • blood in stool;
  • weak pulse, tachycardia.

You should know that you should never try to reduce a strangulated hernia!

Which doctor can help with the emergence of pathology?

A surgeon diagnoses and treats an inguinal hernia. This does not mean that the only way to treat the disease is surgery. If you consult a doctor in a timely manner, you can completely manage without it for a long time.

How is diagnostics carried out?

First of all, the doctor will conduct an external examination of the patient, ask him to strain, cough, and assess the degree of reducibility of the hernial protrusion and its structure. If after such an examination the surgeon still has unclear circumstances that interfere with an accurate diagnosis, he will resort to ultrasound diagnostics.

In rare cases, herniography may be necessary - an X-ray examination with preliminary injection of a contrast agent into the abdominal cavity.

How to treat without surgery

You need to understand that complete relief from a hernia is only possible through surgery, and all conservative treatment methods can only slow down the development of the pathology and help the patient avoid complications. In the early stages of the disease, you can manage with the help of conservative treatment methods, while being under the supervision of your attending physician.

Physiotherapy

Therapeutic gymnastics is designed to help strengthen the muscular-ligamentous apparatus of the abdominal press. You need to do the exercises without excessive zeal and if discomfort increases, you should immediately reduce the load.

Attention! All exercises and other physical activities must be approved by a doctor, otherwise during exercise you can cause pinching!

Exercise How to do it
With a bag of sand (1 kg)Place the sandbag on your stomach in the navel area. Inflate your stomach - pull your stomach in.
Repeat the same, placing the sandbag on your stomach just above your pubic area.
Perform 10–12 repetitions of each exercise variation.
On the chairSit on a chair, arms along your body, knees together in front of you. Raise your left arm up and tilt to the right without getting up from the chair. Repeat the exercise on the other side.
Do 10–12 reps.
With a ballLie on the floor, arms along your body. Hold the ball with the insides of your feet and lift it to a height of 10–15 cm from the floor. Hold for a few seconds and lower.
Repeat 8 times.
standingPlace your feet shoulder-width apart. Alternately bend towards your left and right legs, trying to reach your toes with the tips of the fingers of the opposite hand. At this moment, move your other hand back and up.
Repeat 10–12 times.

Drug therapy and folk remedies

Such therapy can only be considered as an auxiliary one. With the help of medications and natural remedies, you can fight chronic constipation, strained cough, frequent sneezing - factors that contribute to the development of an inguinal hernia. The use of such means will help to avoid the causes leading to a sharp increase in intra-abdominal pressure.

Wearing a bandage

The bandage is also unable to relieve the patient of a hernia, but with its help it is possible to stop its development and avoid complications. A specially designed device, consisting of belts and pelota (coverings for the area of ​​hernial protrusions), compensates for the function of weakened muscles, preventing the hernia from falling out.

A correctly selected bandage allows you to compensate for the function of weakened abdominal muscles

A bandage is also used in cases where for some reason the patient cannot undergo surgery.

Surgical treatment

As already mentioned, surgery is the only method that can completely rid the patient of a hernia. Hernia repair can be performed either traditionally, using surgical incisions, or endoscopically, by making punctures under the control of special equipment.

Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of surgical method is the prerogative of the surgeon, who will take into account all the circumstances and individual characteristics of the patient.

Traditional surgery to remove

During a traditional surgical operation, the tissue and peritoneum located in the area of ​​the hernial sac are dissected, after which the intestinal loops are returned to their place in the abdominal cavity. The peritoneum, which formed the shell of the hernial sac, is cut off and the tissues are sewn together.

To prevent relapse of the disease, the walls of the inguinal canal are strengthened either with the patient’s own tissues or by installing a polymer mesh, which significantly reduces the likelihood of repeated protrusion of organs.

When performing an operation using obstructive hernioplasty, a small incision is made - no more than 3-4 cm, the hernia is reduced into the abdominal cavity, and the inguinal canal is strengthened with an obstructive mesh, which virtually eliminates the possibility of relapse.

Endoscopic surgery is more gentle because it does not involve surgical incisions, which shortens the patient’s rehabilitation period. This hernia repair is performed using 4 punctures of the anterior abdominal wall, carried out under the control of an endoscope, which displays a detailed image of the operation on the monitor.

Removal of inguinal hernia using endoscopic surgery

Moreover, this method has certain disadvantages:

  • the impossibility of a thorough audit of the operating area;
  • the need to use general anesthesia, while traditional surgery often uses local anesthesia;
  • greater likelihood of complications and relapse.

In case of necrosis of the inguinal hernia due to strangulation, the necrotic segment of the intestine is removed. Such an operation is performed not in a planned manner, but in an urgent (emergency) manner, so you should not bring the situation to such a scenario.

Visual progress of the hernia repair operation (video)

Before surgery to remove an inguinal hernia, the patient will undergo a set of laboratory tests:

  • BAK-seeding;
  • coagulogram;
  • general blood analysis;
  • Analysis of urine.

Several days before surgery, you should not take psychotropic or narcotic medications or drink alcoholic beverages. The last meal on the eve of hernia surgery should be no later than 18.00. If there are no contraindications, the patient is recommended to undergo a cleansing enema. In case of insomnia caused by anxiety, you can take a soothing herbal tea. When preparing for surgery in the morning, you should not eat or drink.

If the patient is constantly taking any medications, the anesthesiologist must be told about this.

Rehabilitation period: how long does recovery last?

The length of the rehabilitation period will depend on the method of surgery and the type of anesthesia. With local anesthesia, the patient can leave the clinic one day after hernia repair, and with general anesthesia, he must be under the supervision of medical personnel for at least 2-3 days. After obstructive hernioplasty, the patient can go home within a few hours. Surgical sutures are removed after 8–9 days.

Diet after hernia removal

During the rehabilitation period, which lasts several weeks, heavy lifting and any physical exertion are prohibited. The diet should consist mainly of vegetable and dairy foods, which prevent the development of constipation; it is better to prefer bread with bran and slightly stale. In addition, the list of food products should include lean meat - chicken, turkey, veal, preferably boiled.

Possible consequences of the operation

Any surgical operation is associated with injury to body tissue, and therefore there is always the possibility of developing postoperative complications. The probable consequences of a herniotomy operation can be considered as follows:

  • infection of the surgical wound;
  • violation of the integrity of the abdominal organs - intestines, bladder, etc.;
  • damage to the hip joint;
  • thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities;
  • damage to the spermatic cord;
  • hematoma;
  • recurrence of inguinal hernia.

In order to minimize the risk of developing postoperative complications, you need to carefully select the clinic where the operation will be performed, become familiar with the reputation of the surgeon, and strictly follow the recommendations of the attending physician during the postoperative period.

Figure 1. Schematic representation of an inguinal hernia An inguinal hernia (IG) is a disease in which protrusion of abdominal organs under the skin through natural openings in the groin area of ​​the abdomen occurs. This is just one of the types of hernias, but in terms of frequency of occurrence it occupies a leading place among middle-aged and older people. (Fig. 1)

The groin region in men and women has the shape of a triangle, limited by mutually perpendicular lines drawn through the pubic joint from below and the most protruding part of the pelvic bone from the side.

Men have a completely different anatomy in this area than women. A very important structure passes through the groin area of ​​a man - the spermatic cord, which contains the artery, venous plexus and vas deferens. The first of them brings blood to the testicles, the venous plexus drains blood into the abdominal cavity (with stagnation of blood, varicocele can develop), and the vas deferens carries sperm from the testicles.

The main protective barrier of the groin area is the muscles and fascia - a powerful connective tissue structure that envelops the muscles and serves as protection for them. The external oblique, internal oblique and transverse muscles limit the inguinal canal, and the transversalis fascia acts as its posterior wall. It is the weakness of the posterior wall that causes inguinal hernias.


Figure 2. Anatomical structure of a hernia The anatomical structure of a hernia (Fig. 2) is as follows:
  • The hernial orifice is a ring that consists of dense connective tissue through which organs protrude under the skin. It is in this place that a hernia strangulation can occur. The sizes vary from 2-3 cm to 10-15 cm for inguinal hernias. However, it is the narrow hernial orifice that is more often prone to strangulation of the contents of the hernial sac.
  • The hernial sac is part of the peritoneum (the thin membrane that covers the abdominal muscles from the inside) that has emerged through the hernial orifice under the skin. The hernial sac can be up to 2-3 cm in length, but sometimes reaches enormous sizes of up to 30-40 cm.
  • Hernial contents - it can be any movable organ of the abdominal cavity. Sometimes, with an inguinal hernia, the entire small intestine (about 4 meters), the spleen, the appendix, part of the colon, and the entire omentum (an organ consisting of adipose tissue that covers all organs of the abdominal cavity) can extend beyond the abdominal cavity.

Types of inguinal hernias

Depending on the origin of the hernial sac, hernias are:

  1. Congenital - occur when the vaginal process of the peritoneum does not grow, when the testicles descend into the scrotum before birth. They are only oblique.
  2. Acquired - occur mainly in adults who experience severe physical exertion. They are both straight and oblique.

According to the anatomical classification, hernias are of the following types:


Another important clinical classification on which the choice of treatment depends:


Figure 4. Strangulated inguinal hernia
  • reducible PG - characterized by independent or manual reduction of the contents of the hernia into the abdominal cavity. Usually these are small hernias and at the initial stage of development, when adhesions between the tissues have not yet formed;
  • irreducible PG – occurs in the presence of a hernia for a long time, when the hernial sac is connected by adhesions to the subcutaneous fatty tissue. In this case, it is not possible to reduce the hernia into the abdominal cavity, but its contents are not tense and may slightly decrease or increase;
  • strangulated hernia - if strangulated, it is impossible, even with external help, to reduce the contents of the hernia into the abdominal cavity. In this case, the hernial sac is tense and painful. (Fig. 4)

You can determine whether an inguinal hernia is strangulated or not by performing a simple task - holding the hernia with your hand, you need to cough several times. If at the same time the hernial protrusion increases and decreases, then the hernia is reducible. Otherwise, if, when coughing, the protrusion does not change its size and continues to hurt, it is most likely that the hernia is strangulated!

It is very important to remember that if a hernia is strangulated, urgent surgery is necessary!

Causes of inguinal hernias

Among the main causes of inguinal hernias are the following:

  • genetic anomaly - in which there is a genetically determined weakness of the connective tissue. In this case, not only inguinal hernias can develop, but also femoral and umbilical hernias, as well as spinal curvatures and typical joint dislocations;
  • congenital pathology - characterized by incomplete fusion of the peritoneal process, which occurs in all boys in the groin area before birth, and should close in the first period of life;
  • excessive physical activity - hard work, professional sports, weightlifting;
  • injuries;
  • problems with the gastrointestinal tract - constipation;
  • damage to the nervous system - stroke with the development of paralysis on one side of the body.

Symptoms of an inguinal hernia or how to determine its presence?

The main symptom of an inguinal hernia in men is the appearance of a protrusion in the groin area. In such a situation, an external examination of the groin areas is required. It should be noted that the protrusion may disappear with the normal position of the body, but when coughing it again penetrates under the skin and becomes visible.

When palpating (feeling the body with your hands) the groin area in the presence of a hernia, you can feel a round formation, soft consistency, elastic, moderately or not painful.

If a formation or protrusion appears, then you need to place your hand on the inguinal hernia and cough at the same time; if the protrusion increases and decreases in volume, then this means that the hernia is reducible/irreducible. If, when coughing, the size of the hernia does not change, then this indicates a strangulated hernia and urgent surgical intervention is required. This study is called the “cough impulse” symptom.

With a significant increase in protrusion, it can be detected even in the scrotum and be of gigantic size. In this case, it is necessary to perform an ultrasound to distinguish the hernial contents from the contents of the scrotum.

There is no need to distinguish between a direct or an oblique inguinal hernia; this is of practical importance only for the surgeon.

What to do if an inguinal hernia appears?

The recipe here is very simple - do not panic if it is a simple reducible or irreducible inguinal hernia. As planned, you need to come for an examination to a surgeon and then undergo surgery.

However, if a strangulated inguinal hernia is detected, then you should immediately call an ambulance and be hospitalized in the surgical department. If the hernia repairs itself within 2 hours, then a doctor’s observation is required for at least 2 days; in another situation, immediate surgery is needed.

Treatment of inguinal hernia in men

Treatment without surgery

Treatment of an inguinal hernia without surgery involves influencing the main causes of its development: reducing physical activity, a diet that does not lead to constipation, avoiding prolonged static load, treatment of chronic respiratory diseases, which increases intra-abdominal pressure.


Figure 5. The effectiveness of a bandage belt for the treatment of inguinal hernia is very low. Very often, men are recommended to use a bandage belt for an inguinal hernia, which is mistakenly attributed to a huge therapeutic effect. But it should be used only when surgery is contraindicated, for example, in cases of cancer or severe concomitant pathology of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. For irreducible hernias, the use of a bandage is contraindicated. (Fig. 5)

Surgeons do not recommend wearing a bandage belt even in the presence of a reducible inguinal hernia, since its effectiveness is very low, and subsequent surgical intervention reveals a massive adhesive process, which can lead to complications or relapse.

Thus, the use of a bandage is only a necessary measure and in no way replaces surgery.

Surgical treatment

The surgical technique for eliminating an inguinal hernia must be approached on a purely individual basis. It is best to perform the operation at the initial stage of development of the hernia, when it is still reducible. It is also important to perform the operation in the autumn-winter period.

The type of anesthesia is chosen by the anesthesiologist, based on the characteristics of the patient’s body - it can be local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia (the drug is injected into the cerebrospinal fluid, and the entire underlying part of the body is anesthetized), epidural anesthesia (an anesthetic drug is injected into the spine, and only a certain part of the body is anesthetized). trunk area), general anesthesia.

Let's look at some types of surgical interventions:

Hernioplasty with own tissues— consists of removing the hernial sac and performing plastic surgery of the inguinal canal using one’s own tissues:


Hernioplasty using mesh (allograft)- is based on the use of synthetic materials to close tissue defects. This technique uses non-absorbable meshes made of polyurethane and polypropylene. The main advantage over the previous type of plastic surgery is the absence of tissue tension and the greater strength of the artificial material.


Laparoscopic hernioplasty— surgery does not stand still, and this new type of plastic surgery is gradually being introduced into practice. Some of its disadvantages are its high cost and low prevalence in different regions of the country. This type of intervention requires not only specific instruments, but also highly qualified surgeons.


Postoperative period

After performing the inguinal hernia hernioplasty operation as planned, the patient must adhere to bed rest for about a day. After spinal anesthesia, the patient will not feel the lower part of the body for approximately 4-6 hours. When sensitivity returns, you can turn on your side. The first meal of food and water can be taken after 12-24 hours; you should start with regular soup, jelly, sweet tea or simple mineral water. Next, the diet is expanded and the patient is allowed to eat food that is familiar to the patient.

You are allowed to get out of bed the next day after surgery, preferably with the help of strangers. Then gradually strength will appear and you will be able to walk on your own.

Drug therapy:

  • painkillers are administered during the first 3-4 days;
  • antibiotics (depending on the duration and progress of the operation) for 1 to 3 days;
  • anticoagulants (drugs that significantly reduce blood clotting) daily for 7 days, if there are concomitant diseases, age after 40 years, obesity, diseases of the veins of the lower extremities.

For 1-2 months, it is strictly forbidden to engage in heavy physical work, you need to lead a gentle lifestyle, after the 2nd month you need to gradually increase the load.

Complications

It may seem that an inguinal hernia is a harmless physical pathology that can be ignored. However, there are very serious complications that arise when a man has a hernia for a long time and can lead to very serious consequences. Here are some of them:

  1. Inguinal hernia strangulation is a very serious complication that can occur at any time of the day, even at rest. But more often when performing physical activity, abruptly getting out of bed, coughing, difficulty urinating. In case of strangulation, an operation must be performed within 2 hours and, if the strangulated organ is viable, then simply set it back and perform hernioplasty using the methods described above. If the strangulated organ is not viable, then it is necessary to remove it or resection (partial removal of the organ) and perform hernioplasty.
  2. Acute intestinal obstruction - this complication occurs when adhesions form in the abdominal cavity due to the long-term presence of a hernia and its constant reduction or use of a bandage. It can also occur when a hernia is strangulated, when the small or large intestine is strangulated. In case of this complication, it is necessary to perform a laparotomy (an incision in the abdomen along a vertical line from the navel to the pubis), examine all organs and eliminate the cause of the development of obstruction. The postoperative period in this case increases significantly, amounting to about 9-12 days.
  3. Dysfunction of the intestinal tract - occurs with a long-term presence of a hernia, especially when it is large. In this case, most of the small intestine enters the hernial sac, then under the skin, changing the anatomical position of the intestine, which leads to constipation. This problem can only be resolved operationally.

Consequences

It needs to be repeated once again - an inguinal hernia can only be treated surgically. Wearing a bandage, avoiding surgery, or self-reducing the hernia is only temporary and should not be used as a definitive treatment.

The consequences of non-operation of an inguinal hernia in men, as already mentioned, can be its strangulation, discomfort in the groin area, pain during physical activity, the appearance of adhesions in the abdominal cavity, prolonged constipation, and abdominal asymmetry.

By performing the operation using one of the described methods, the patient will get rid of the previously mentioned problems associated with the presence of an inguinal hernia.