Hernia Unveiled: Insurance, Costs, and Recovery

What is a Hernia? A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This can result in a noticeable bulge or lump, often causing discomfort or pain.

Different Types of Hernia Hernias can occur in various areas of the body, each with its own characteristics:

1. Inguinal Hernia: Most common type, affecting the groin area.
2. Femoral Hernia: Similar to inguinal hernia but occurs lower in the groin.
3. Umbilical Hernia: Found near the belly button and common in infants.
4. Incisional Hernia: Develops at the site of a previous surgical incision.
5. Hiatal Hernia: Involves the upper stomach pushing through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.

Causes of Hernias Several factors can contribute to the development of hernias, including:

• Weakness in the abdominal wall due to age or genetics.
• Strain on the abdomen from heavy lifting, persistent coughing, or straining during bowel movements.
• Previous surgery or injury that weakens the abdominal muscles.

Symptoms of a Hernia Common symptoms of a hernia include:

• Visible bulge or lump, especially when standing or straining.
• Discomfort or pain, particularly during physical activity or when lifting heavy objects.
• A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the affected area.
• Sometimes, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty with bowel movements in cases of hernias involving the intestines.

Diagnosis of a Hernia Diagnosing a hernia typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider, who may palpate the affected area to feel for a bulge. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the hernia.

Treatment Options for Hernias in India Treatment for hernias typically involves surgical repair to push the protruding tissue back into place and strengthen the weakened area. In India, common treatment options include:

• Open hernia repair: Traditional surgery involving an incision over the hernia site.
• Laparoscopic hernia repair: Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a camera for guidance.
• Robotic hernia repair: Advanced surgical technique performed with robotic assistance for enhanced precision.

Types of Hernia Repair Surgery in India:

• Open Hernia Repair
• Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
• Robotic Hernia Repair

Step-by-Step Procedure for Hernia Treatment in India

1. Consultation and Diagnosis:

• Visit a doctor or surgeon specializing in hernias.
• Discuss symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
• Physical examination to identify the type and severity of hernia.
• Imaging tests (ultrasound, MRI) may be recommended.

2. Preparation for Surgery:

• Fasting before surgery (usually 6-8 hours).
• Inform the doctor about any medications or allergies.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you to the hospital.

3. Surgical Options:

• Laparoscopic Surgery:

• Small incisions made.
• Insertion of a laparoscope (thin tube with a camera).
• Surgeon repairs the hernia using mesh.
• Faster recovery and less scarring.
• Open Surgery:

• Larger incision directly over the hernia.
• Surgeon repairs the hernia and reinforces the abdominal wall.
• Longer recovery time but suitable for complex cases.

4. Anesthesia:

• General anesthesia for both laparoscopic and open surgeries.
• An anesthesiologist administers the anesthesia.

5. Surgery:

• Laparoscopic:

• Carbon dioxide gas inflates the abdomen.
• Instruments inserted through small incisions.
• Hernia pushed back into place and mesh secured.
• Open:

• Hernia sac removed or pushed back.
• Mesh placed to strengthen the weakened area.
• Incision closed with sutures or staples.

6. Recovery and Post-Operative Care:

• Stay in the hospital for 1-2 days (laparoscopic) or 2-3 days (open).
• Pain management and wound care.
• Gradual return to normal activities (avoid heavy lifting).
• Follow-up appointments with the surgeon.

Benefits of Health Insurance for Hernia Health insurance provides financial protection and access to quality healthcare services for individuals with hernias. Benefits of health insurance coverage for hernia include:

• Coverage for surgical expenses and related medical costs.
• Access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers for treatment.
• Minimization of out-of-pocket expenses for policyholders, reducing financial burden.

Health Insurance Coverage for Hernia Treatment in India Health insurance policies typically cover hernia treatment, including surgical procedures and associated medical expenses. However, coverage may vary depending on the type of policy and the insurer’s terms and conditions. It’s essential for policyholders to review their insurance coverage and understand the extent of hernia treatment covered.

Average Cost of Hernia Treatment in India The average cost of hernia treatment in India varies depending on the type of surgery and the hospital. According to data from the Indian Health Ministry and hospital surveys, the approximate costs are as follows:

• Open hernia repair: INR 30,000 to 60,000
• Laparoscopic hernia repair: INR 60,000 to 1,50,000
• Robotic hernia repair: INR 1,50,000 to 3,00,000

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

Never-Seen Facts & Figures:  

• The first hernia surgery was performed in ancient Egypt.
• India witnesses over 1 million hernia surgeries annually.