[pj123]

Damien10:

You can do a search on SAGES YouTube Channel. There are some videos there but they may not be what you are looking for.

pj123

[pj123]

I am new here and decided to add the following to this discussion.

I had an umbilical hernia repaired without mesh 2 1/2 years ago. I’d had the hernia for over 6 years. When the hernia became difficult to reduce and it was causing me significant pain I realized I needed to have it repaired. At the time I was in my mid 60’s and overweight (BMI 27.5). I believe the size of the defect was 2 to 2.5cm. I was told the hernia would be repaired with an open mesh procedure. I was concerned about the potential risks associated with mesh and mentioned this to the surgeon. I said I would prefer a non mesh repair if it was possible.

After the surgery I was told the surgeon was able to repair the hernia without mesh. So far the repair has not failed and the pain associated with the hernia is gone. I do have mid to upper abdominal discomfort and pain but this is related to IBS, something I have had for over 30 years. Fortunately I brought my concerns about mesh to the surgeon and he was willing and able to do the repair without mesh. Hopefully the repair continues to hold confirming that I did not need a mesh repair.

On another note, I also have an inguinal hernia that I have had for almost 8 years. When first diagnosed by a family physician it was recommended not to have it repaired due to the risk of post surgical chronic pain. This hernia is now causing me some discomfort and eventually I will probably have to have it repaired. I’m in Canada in a city where if there are any surgeons still preforming non mesh repairs I will be lucky to be referred to one. I realize my best option is to go to the Shouldice Clinic but at this time I do not feel like traveling and I am still overweight. So for now I will focus on trying to lose weight and hope I don’t end up in emergency getting a mesh repair.