Day theatre procedure
About this service
Incisional hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed in Windhoek to fix a hernia that has formed at the site of a previous surgical incision, where the abdominal wall has weakened over time. It often shows up as a bulge near an old scar that becomes more noticeable when standing, coughing or straining. Left untreated, an incisional hernia can grow larger and become uncomfortable or, in some cases, cause complications, so surgical repair is usually recommended.
At Eastgate Clinic this repair is performed in our on-site day theatre, with your GP managing consultation and follow-up in our rooms. Your doctor will advise on the best repair technique for you.
What to expect
- A consultation and examination in our rooms to assess the hernia before surgery
- Under anaesthesia the old scar is reopened, the hernia contents are returned and the weakened wall is repaired
- Mesh may be used to strengthen the repair, depending on your doctor's assessment
- Some swelling and discomfort at the site is expected in the days after surgery
- A period of reduced heavy lifting during recovery, as advised by your doctor
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A bulge near a previous surgical scar
- Swelling that becomes more noticeable with straining, coughing or standing
- Discomfort or a dragging sensation around an old incision
- A hernia that has grown larger over recent months
- A hernia confirmed on examination or ultrasound by your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Why did a hernia form at my old surgical scar?
Scar tissue is never as strong as the original abdominal wall, and infection, coughing, weight gain or heavy lifting after the first operation can stretch it. The result is a bulge along the scar that tends to enlarge over time.
Is incisional hernia repair done as a day procedure?
Smaller incisional hernias are often repaired in our on-site day theatre with same-day discharge. Larger or complex repairs may need a longer stay elsewhere, and your surgeon will advise once the hernia has been assessed.
What can I do to stop an incisional hernia coming back?
Follow the lifting restrictions your surgeon gives you, keep a healthy weight, stop smoking and treat a persistent cough early. Mesh reinforcement also lowers the chance of recurrence.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your incisional hernia repair?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.