Your obesity plays a major role in developing hernias, and if you are wondering whether you can have weight loss surgery with hernia, the answer is yes. It is possible to undergo weight loss surgery, like gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, with it. Commonly, doctors treat this condition simultaneously with bariatric surgery to lessen the risk of complications. However, the decision to combine procedures depends on certain factors. Let’s discuss it further.
A Bit on Hernia Repair
Hiatal hernia is a condition in which your diaphragm develops a hole or gap in it. Anatomically, your diaphragm is a large muscle that separates the abdomen from your chest cavity. In case of any weakness or damage, a part of the stomach goes inside the chest through that hole in the diaphragm, resulting in heartburn and vomiting. Hernias are more commonly seen in those who grapple with obesity.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass is a type of bariatric surgery in which your stomach is shrunk, helping you lose weight since your intake of calories goes less.
The Link between Hernia and Obesity
Being obese increases the chances of developing abdominal wall hernias since the extra weight strains you in that area, making you weaker and more prone to developing this condition. With time, as your weight increases, it contributes to increased growth of the hernia.
There are certain instances where the pressure leads to a loop of intestine trapping in the muscle tissue, resulting in severe pain and needing immediate treatment.
Weight Loss Surgery and Hernia Repair Combined Together
If you are still wondering whether your weight loss surgery is possible with hernia, the answer is yes. They can fix both things together. Small hiatal hernias are easily repairable through a minimally invasive technique at the time of your bariatric surgery. However, when it comes to para esophageal or Type II hiatal hernias, two separate surgeries may be required due to the need for a biological barrier for repair.
Does Combining Them Work?
Combining the two, hernia repair with weight loss surgery like gastric bypass has been in talks for a while now. It is possible for you to safely undergo sleeve gastrectomy if combined with simultaneous hernia repair. This approach is quite effective in lessening the chances of postoperative complications related to gastroesophageal reflux disease.
However, the opinions differ among surgeons. The ultimate decision to perform concurrent hernia repair and weight loss surgery depends on individual patient factors and the kinds of techniques used.
Closing Note
If you want to learn more about hernia or weight loss surgery, get in touch with experts at Nova Bariatrics by dialing (469) 639-0953 Irving, TX 75063, or (682) 284-1786 Arlington, TX 76015
