[jsalina]

Inguinal hernia recurrence

It has been 3 weeks since my hernia repair. Doing well, but there is still some swelling above the incision. Very little pain, except for sensitivity of the incision area.
At my two week follow-up with the surgeon last week, he explained what he found and the reason for the recurrence, as explained in the op report as I have paraphrased here:
It appeared that the mesh (from the previous repair) had retracted somewhat superiorly or slid up to open a 1.5 cm window, thus forming the recurrent hernia.
He repaired the defect using a PHS medium prosthesis.
After the new mesh was installed, he noted how the ilioinguinal nerve emerged from the muscle and was somewhat tented around the mesh inferolaterally. He transected the nerve because of the potential for neuropathy.

I am taking it easy, just going on short walks each day and not lifting anything even slightly heavy (less than 10 pounds). The more I move around and walk, it seems to feel better. However, at 62 years old, I feel that I am recovering slowly as I get tired later in the day, so it is going to take a while to fully recover. I am in no hurry and I am enjoying being able to go on walks, shopping, etc. without the painful hernia pushing out previous to the surgery.

I did so much research prior to having this recurrence repaired. I consulted with several recognized experts around the country, but only after finding Hernia Talk, did I gain enough information to go back ask my surgeon detailed questions and gain enough confidence to let him do the repair.
Thanks again to the doctors on this site!
I will keep everyone posted as I progress .

[jsalina]

Inguinal hernia recurrence

Back home after surgery this morning
Not much pain and I am moving around, walking okay
However, I am taking it easy.
My surgeon told us the repair went well.
I plan to post my op report after I go to my follow up visit next week.

John

[jsalina]

Inguinal hernia recurrence

I went back to my original surgeon and we discussed my situation in great detail. I explained all of the information I learned in this forum and from other doctors I consulted with over the last few months. He was able to answer all of the my questions and I feel confident in his abilities. He plans to perform an open anterior mesh repair. My surgery is scheduled for Oct 15th.
He also shared the risks concerning the repair of a recurrent hernia. I am hoping all goes well.
I will keep the forum updated as things progress after the surgery.

John

[jsalina]

Inguinal hernia recurrence

Thank you very much Dr Towfigh. I have a much greater understanding of my condition now and where to seek further help. 🙂

[jsalina]

Survey! Re: Consultations with your Surgeon

This is a great idea and I am willing to pay more than $0.99.
I wish I had a clearer understanding before my previous surgery.

[jsalina]

Inguinal hernia recurrence

Thank you Dr. Towfigh.

If I elect to have the open repair, my surgeon mentioned using mesh or maybe a plug and patch. I have read about issues with plug and patch. Do you recommend a particular type of mesh, etc. ?
I am also wondering about going to clinic which specializes in hernia repairs, such as yours. I live in Arkansas, but I am willing to travel. I am going back to my surgeon in a couple of weeks, I have many questions for him. However, if I do not feel comfortable with his answers, I am ready to make the decision to travel for this surgery.
What are you thoughts on traveling for this surgery, is there the potential for follow up care issues, etc.?

Thank you
John