Archives: December 2022
Mesh Hernia Repairs…the Right Choice or Asking For Trouble?
When discussing hernia repair, a few issues are more controversial than hernia mesh. To understand whether hernia mesh is appropriate for your repair, it is essential to understand what exactly it is, how technology has changed over the years, and what the concerns have been about hernia mesh in the past. As you may know, a hernia is a defect in the strong layer of the abdominal lining known as fascia. As this wears down, it can develop a hole, and the contents of the abdomen can begin to push through (intestine, fat, etc.), causing pain and a palpable or visible lump. Hernias in and of themselves are not dangerous, and many patients live their whole lives not even knowing they have one.
However, for those that experience lifestyle impediments or rare emergencies like incarceration or strangulation of the hernia, a surgical repair is necessary. Decades ago, hernias were repaired using a tension method by primarily suturing the hernia defect closed. However, tension repairs have several drawbacks that may result in many patients experiencing a recurrence – where the hernia defect re-opens. This is because the fascia does not repair itself like skin or muscle. It heals with a scar that is never as strong as the unscarred fascia. Further, the tension placed on the sutures can tear this tissue and allow the contents of the hernia to protrude once again. Continue reading
Breaking the News About Your Decision to Have Bariatric Surgery
Millions of Americans qualify for bariatric surgery, and many have researched surgical options for weight loss. However, while bariatric surgery is the single most effective long-term solution for patients suffering from obesity, only a tiny fraction of qualifying patients ultimately have the surgery. It’s hard to separate metabolic surgery from the idea that it is elective, despite excess weight causing so many significant medical conditions. This perception is partly because many of the comorbidities associated with morbid obesity, like type-2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, do not produce symptoms until they become severe. Even with standard screening procedures, many patients do not adequately control their comorbidities for any number of reasons.
If you have finally decided bariatric surgery is an option, congratulations! Not only have you taken a massive step toward renewed health, but you’ve also decided to be vulnerable. And, to be honest, that really takes guts.