Hernia Surgery In India
Hernia is a common medical condition that affects a significant number of people in India. This article provides a comprehensive overview of hernia in India, including its prevalence, treatment options, and costs.
Prevalence of Hernia in India
In India, hernia is a prevalent health issue. However, exact data on the incidence and prevalence of hernia in the country is limited1. According to a study conducted in an urban community in Mumbai, hernia surgeries accounted for 2.86% of all surgeries performed.
This suggests that hernia is a common condition requiring surgical intervention in India.
Types of Hernia
The most common type of hernia in both males and females is the inguinal hernia. About 25% of males and 2% of females develop inguinal hernias.
Other types of hernia include umbilical hernia, epigastric hernia, hiatal hernia, giant abdominal wall hernia, incisional hernia, and femoral hernia.
Treatment of Hernia in India
There is no medical treatment for a hernia. Hernia can only be repaired through a surgical operation. If a hernia is left untreated, there is a significant risk of complications like irreducibility, obstruction or strangulation4.
There are three types of techniques used to perform Hernia Surgery in India:
Open Hernia Surgery
- This traditional approach involves making a single, larger incision directly over the hernia site.
- Through this incision, the surgeon accesses the hernia, reduces the protruding tissue, and reinforces the weakened abdominal wall with sutures or a synthetic mesh.
- Open surgery provides direct visualization of the hernia sac and surrounding structures, facilitating comprehensive repair.
- It is suitable for various types of hernias and allows for thorough exploration of the abdominal cavity.
OR
It’s like the traditional way. The doctor makes a cut right where the hernia is, fixes it up, and adds some extra muscle power to keep it in place. It’s like giving your tummy a super-strong shield!
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
- Also known as minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic hernia repair is performed through several small incisions in the abdomen.
- A laparoscope, a thin tube equipped with a camera, is inserted through one of the incisions, providing a magnified view of the internal structures on a monitor.
- Specialized instruments are used to manipulate the hernia and perform the repair.
- Laparoscopic surgery offers advantages such as reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
- It is particularly suitable for bilateral inguinal hernias, recurrent hernias, and patients seeking a less invasive approach.
Incisional Hernia Surgery
- This technique is specifically designed to repair hernias that develop at the site of a previous surgical incision.
- Depending on the size and complexity of the hernia, the surgeon may opt for either open or laparoscopic approaches.
- The goal of incisional hernia surgery is to strengthen the weakened abdominal wall and prevent recurrence.
- It is essential for patients who are at risk of developing hernias at incision sites due to prior abdominal surgeries.
OR
Sometimes, a hernia pops up where you’ve had surgery before. They’ll fix it with either the first or second way, depending on how big the problem is. It’s like giving your tummy a double dose of superhero strength!
Step-by-Step Procedure:
1. Preoperative Preparation: Before surgery, you will undergo a thorough evaluation to assess your overall health and suitability for anesthesia. You may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified period before the procedure.
2. Anesthesia Administration: You will receive anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility during the surgery. The type of anesthesia (general or regional) will be determined based on your medical history and the surgical approach chosen.
3. Surgical Access: For open hernia surgery, the surgeon will make a single incision over the hernia site. In laparoscopic surgery, multiple small incisions are made to accommodate the laparoscope and surgical instruments.
4. Hernia Reduction and Repair: The surgeon will carefully manipulate the herniated tissue back into its normal position within the abdominal cavity. The weakened abdominal wall will then be reinforced using sutures, mesh, or a combination of both, depending on the technique employed.
5. Closure and Recovery: Once the repair is complete, the incisions are closed using sutures or surgical staples. You will be closely monitored in the recovery area to ensure stability and comfort as the effects of anesthesia wear off.
6. Postoperative Care: After surgery, you will receive instructions on wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions during the initial recovery period. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Conclusion:
Hernia surgery in India offers patients a range of effective techniques tailored to individual needs and preferences. Whether opting for open, laparoscopic, or incisional repair, patients can benefit from comprehensive care delivered by skilled surgeons in modern healthcare facilities.
The choice of technique depends on the type of hernia, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise.
Role of Health Insurance in Covering Hernia Treatment Costs
Health insurance plays a crucial role in managing the costs associated with hernia treatment. Most health insurance policies in India cover the costs of hernia surgery, including pre-hospitalization and post-hospitalization expenses. However, there may be certain exclusions and waiting periods.
It’s important to read the policy document carefully to understand the coverage, exclusions, and waiting periods related to hernia treatment. Some insurance companies may have a specific waiting period (usually 1-2 years) for covering hernia treatment.
As an insurance broking company, we can help you choose the right health insurance policy that covers hernia treatment costs, keeping in mind the exclusions and waiting periods. We can also assist you in understanding the claim process for hernia treatment.
Cost of Hernia Surgery in India
The cost of hernia surgery in India varies depending on several factors, including the surgeon’s fee, the patient’s age, the area of the body to be treated, the patient’s medical condition, the method of surgery planned to be performed, post-surgical complications, the type of hospital, and the admission room opted for.
| Cost Type | Amount (INR) |
| Minimum Cost | Rs.55,000 |
| Average Cost | Rs.65,000 |
| Maximum Cost | Rs.2,60,000 |
Estimated Cost of Hernia Surgery in Key Indian Cities
| City | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Bangalore | Rs.56,000 – Rs.1,12,000 |
| Delhi | Rs.56,000 – Rs.2,65,000 |
| Mumbai | Rs.56,000 – Rs.3,35,000 |
| Gurgaon | Rs.56,000 – Rs.1,12,000 |
| Chennai | Rs.56,000 – Rs.2,05,000 |
| Hyderabad | Rs.56,000 – Rs.2,05,000 |
| Pune | Rs.56,000 – Rs.2,05,000 |
Breakdown of Costs Associated with Hernia Surgery
| Factors Influencing the Cost | Price Range (INR) |
| Cost of Pre-procedure Tests | Rs.4,100 – Rs.5,100 for basic health test |
| Surgery Cost | Rs.56,000 – Rs.1,12,000 (varies based on the area of the body to be treated) |
| Cost for Mesh Used | Rs.2,050 – Rs.35,500 (Mesh may or may not be used) |
| Follow-up Session Cost | Rs.610 per session |
| Post-surgery Treatment Cost | Rs.2,050 – Rs.3,050 |
| Daycare (Cost of Hospital Stay) | Rs.3,050 – Rs.6,100 (hospital stay for 1-2 days) |
Please note that these are approximate costs and the actual costs may vary depending on various factors. It’s always recommended to check with the hospital and your insurance provider for the most accurate information.
Conclusion
Hernia is a common health issue in India that often requires surgical intervention. With advancements in medical technology, there are now several effective treatment options available for hernia in India. However, it is crucial to raise awareness about this condition and encourage timely medical intervention to prevent complications.
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