Is Groin Hernia Serious – Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention in Singapore
Find out all you need to know about groin hernia...
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide educational guidance as there may be other treatment options available; it does not replace the need for professional medical advice and should not be relied upon as specific advice for individual cases.
A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weakened area in the surrounding muscles. The most common type of hernias occur in the abdominal wall, but they can also appear in other areas such as the groin, belly button, or around surgical incisions. If you have been diagnosed with a hernia, it is crucial to seek proper treatment to avoid potential complications.
There are several types of hernias, but the most common ones include:
A hiatus hernia occurs when a part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It is commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can cause symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain.
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, accounting for about 75% of all cases. They occur when part of the intestine bulges through a weak spot in the lower abdominal muscles, causing a visible bulge in the groin area.
Umbilical hernias are common among infants and occur when part of the intestine bulges through the abdominal muscles near the belly button. They can also affect adults who have weakened abdominal muscles due to pregnancy or obesity.
Incisional hernias occur in the area of a previous abdominal surgery. They can develop years after the initial surgery due to weakened scar tissue.
The most common symptom of a hernia is a bulge or swelling in the affected area. Other common symptoms include pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects or straining during bowel movements. In some cases, hernias can also cause nausea and vomiting.
Hernias occur when there is a weakness or tear in the muscles that hold organs in place. Some common causes of hernias include:
If you suspect you have a hernia, it is essential to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The following are some common methods used to diagnose hernias:
The treatment options for hernias depend on the severity and location of the hernia. In some cases, a doctor may recommend non-surgical options before considering surgery.
If the hernia is small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it over time to see if it gets worse.
Wearing a supportive garment over the affected area can provide temporary relief and prevent the hernia from protruding further.
Making some lifestyle modifications such as avoiding heavy lifting, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms and prevent the hernia from getting bigger.
A Hernia Repair is the surgical correction of a hernia, where the weakened area of a muscle, tissue, or protrusion is reinforced and strengthened. A Hernia Surgeon like Dr Kan may recommend a hernia repair to treat hernias causing pain or other symptoms.
A hernia surgery may be recommended for individuals experiencing severe pain, discomfort, or other symptoms due to their hernia. Surgery is needed if the hernia is in danger of getting trapped or twisted, leading to serious complications.
The following are the types of hernia surgeries in Singapore.
Open Hernia Repair Surgery vs Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Surgery
The number of incisions varies for each hernia repair method. Open hernia repair requires a large incision, whereas laparoscopic hernia repair involves several smaller ones. These smaller incisions typically lead to less visible scarring and a quicker recovery time, depending on the individual’s health and the complexity of the hernia compared to open hernia repair surgery.
In traditional open surgery, a surgeon makes an incision near the hernia. This repairs the hernia by pushing the bulging tissue back into place. It helps to strengthen the surrounding muscles with sutures or mesh.
In this minimally invasive procedure, a surgeon makes several small incisions and uses specialised tools to repair the hernia.
Robotic surgery is a modern method like laparoscopy. It uses a robot system controlled by the surgeon for more precise operations with fewer risks.
The choice of hernia repair surgery depends on factors such as the type of hernia, its location, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise. People with hernias should talk to a doctor to decide on the best surgery and understand the risks and benefits of each choice. Early intervention and appropriate surgical treatment can help prevent complications and ensure a successful hernia repair.
After a hernia surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two to monitor your recovery. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for post-operative care, which may include:
While not all hernias can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Surgery is often required to treat hernias. The cost of the surgery can vary. It depends on the type of surgery, hospital fees, and other related expenses. In Singapore, the Ministry of Health has set fee benchmarks for common surgeries, including hernia repair.
According to MOH fee benchmark guidelines, a hernia repair in Singapore can cost:
| Doctor Fees | |
|---|---|
Surgeon Fees *Higher surgeon fees may also be incurred with complications and emergency surgery. | $3,600 - $6,540 |
Anaesthetist Fees | $1,199 - $1,744 |
Inpatient Doctors' Attendance Fees *This fee does not include hospital fees, cost of medications, injections, operations, special procedures, investigations. | $230 - $450 per day |
The cost above includes GST and is based on transacted bills from 1 Jan 2022 to 31 Dec 2022. They therefore provide an estimated cost but do not necessarily be the actual cost. Patients are advised to discuss the cost of surgery with our doctor beforehand.
The cost of hernia treatment in Singapore may thus vary depending on the type and complexity of the hernia, as well as the chosen treatment approach. Furthermore, some insurance plans may cover the cost of hernia treatment in Singapore, making it a more accessible option for patients.
In some cases, subsidies or insurance coverage may be available to help offset the cost of hernia surgery. For example, Singapore citizens and permanent residents can use Medisave to pay for a portion of the surgical fees. Those with MediShield Life or private health insurance may also have coverage for hernia surgery. You can contact us for more information.
In conclusion, hernias are a common medical issue, but their symptoms should never be ignored. Ignoring them can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. If you experience hernia symptoms, consult a hernia specialist or surgeon in Singapore promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications and ensure your continued good health.
Hernia surgery can be performed using open or laparoscopic techniques. Open repair involves making an incision to push the bulging tissue back and strengthen muscles, while laparoscopic repair uses a camera and small incisions.
Like any surgery, hernia surgery carries some risks. However, with proper pre-operative assessment and post-operative care, the risks can be minimised. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential complications with your doctor before undergoing hernia surgery.
While it is possible for a hernia to recur after surgery, the chances are significantly reduced if the repair was done correctly and the patient takes necessary precautions during recovery. Following the recommended prevention methods can also help reduce the risk of recurrence.
The cost of hernia surgery can vary quite a bit depending on the type and complexity of the hernia, the treatment you choose, hospital fees, medications, and other related expenses. Just keep in mind that costs may go up if there are any complications or if an emergency surgery is needed. It’s always a good idea to discuss this with our clinic to get a clearer picture!
In Singapore, hernia surgery is covered by the Integrated Shield Plan, along with MediShield Life for private healthcare. However, if you’ve an insurance plan, it’s a good idea to check in with your insurance provider for more details—they’ll be happy to help!
Absolutely! Singapore citizens and permanent residents can use their Medisave to help cover some of the surgical fees for hernia repair.
The cost of follow-up appointments and extra treatments can vary based on things like the type of treatment and any complications that might come up. You can discuss with our clinic ahead of time about these costs and find out what might be covered by insurance or subsidies!
Find out all you need to know about groin hernia...
Discover when hernia is considered dangerous, the various hernia types...
Discover when hernia is considered dangerous, the various hernia types...
Here at KYM Surgery, we believe in providing holistic & comprehensive medical care for all patients.
Here at KYM Surgery, we believe in providing holistic & comprehensive medical care for all patients.
Lower your chances of complications, see your doctor early and discuss your best treatment options.
We understand that hernias are worrying, but they can often be treated early. Here at KYM Surgery, we believe in providing holistic & comprehensive hernia care for all patients.
Hernia Surgery Clinic by KYM Surgery
Copyright © 2024 All rights reserved.