Strangulated Hernia

Dr Ganesh Ramalingam

Specialist in General Surgery

Condition

Strangulated Hernia In A Nutshell

  • A strangulated hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or other tissue becomes trapped or pinched in a hernia, cutting off its blood supply.
  • If not treated promptly, this can cause serious complications such as infection or gangrene.
  • Symptoms of a strangulated hernia include severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and a visible bulge or lump that does not go away when lying down.
  • Surgery is the only treatment option for a strangulated hernia and involves repairing the hernia and removing any damaged tissue.

Table of Contents

Strangulated Hernia

What Is A Strangulated Hernia?

A strangulated hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or other tissue gets trapped or pinched in the hernia, causing a disruption in blood supply to the affected area. 

The trapped tissue can become damaged or even die without proper blood flow, leading to serious complications such as infection or gangrene.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Strangulated Hernia?

A strangulated hernia can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Severe pain and tenderness in the affected area
  • A visible bulge or lump that does not go away when lying down
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation or difficulty passing gas
  • Rapid heart rate or breathing
  • Fever or chills

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What Happens If A Strangulated Hernia Goes Untreated?

A strangulated hernia can lead to serious complications such as sepsis, gangrene, or bowel obstruction if left untreated. These complications can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Individuals need to seek medical attention immediately if they suspect a strangulated hernia.

Strangulated Hernia Vs. Incarcerated Hernia

A strangulated hernia and an incarcerated hernia are two types of complications associated with untreated hernias. While they share some similarities, there are important differences between the two.

An incarcerated hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or other tissue becomes trapped or stuck in the hernia, but its blood supply is not cut off. This can cause discomfort or pain and can be a risk factor for strangulation.

A strangulated hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or other tissue becomes trapped in a hernia, and its blood supply is disrupted. This can lead to serious complications such as infection or gangrene.

The symptoms of an incarcerated hernia and a strangulated hernia can be similar, including a visible bulge or lump in the affected area, pain or discomfort, nausea or vomiting, constipation or difficulty passing gas, rapid heart rate or breathing, and fever or chills. 

However, the key difference between the two is that a strangulated hernia is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, while an incarcerated hernia may not require immediate intervention but should still be examined as soon as possible.

How Is A Strangulated Hernia Diagnosed?

If a strangulated hernia is suspected, a doctor will typically perform a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis. This may involve a physical exam, where the doctor may feel for a bulge or lump in the affected area, or diagnostic imaging tests, which can help visualise the hernia and determine its severity.

How Is A Strangulated Hernia Treated?

A strangulated hernia is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. 

Surgery is the only treatment option for a strangulated hernia and involves repairing the hernia and removing any damaged tissue. In some cases, a bowel resection may be necessary to remove a portion of the damaged or dead tissue. 

Recovery from a strangulated hernia repair can take several weeks and may involve pain medication, rest, and limited physical activity.

Recovery After Strangulated Hernia Surgery

After a strangulated hernia repair surgery, it is important for patients to follow their doctor’s instructions for wound care and monitor for any signs of infection or complications. 

Recovery can take several weeks and may involve taking pain medication, resting, and limiting physical activity. Patients should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until they are fully healed.

Can A Strangulated Hernia Be Prevented?

While preventing a hernia may not always be possible, steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing one. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can all help prevent the development of a hernia. It is also important to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect a hernia to prevent serious complications such as a strangulated hernia.

How Much Does a Strangulated Hernia Surgery Cost?

The surgeon’s fee for a strangulated hernia repair in Singapore costs between $4,400 – $8,400 (before GST).

This cost is before insurance claimables. Your insurance claimables will depend on your personal insurance plan. Do note that the cost above does not include the hospital or consumable fees.

The cost of a hernia repair may vary depending on factors such as the medical facility, the complexity of the procedure and the individual’s medical insurance coverage.

For more information on fees and costs, visit out hernia repair costing page.

Frequently Asked Questions

A strangulated hernia can be treated with immediate medical emergency. If left untreated, it can be fatal. 

You may experience symptoms like severe pain in the area, vomiting, a fever and rapid breathing.

Why Choose Us For Your Strangulated Hernia Treatments In Singapore?

Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery by Dr Ganesh Ramalingam at G & L Surgical Clinic in Singapore is preferred by patients looking for a reduced recovery period. Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery has proven highly effective, with more than 90 per cent of hernias not returning after the procedure.

Dr Ganesh at G & L Surgical Clinic strives to prioritise his patients’ recovery and comfort, having had adequate experience performing advanced laparoscopic hernia surgeries for numerous patients for many years in Singapore.

Furthermore, the staff at G & L Surgical Clinic have been thoroughly and adequately trained to make your experience a comfortable and hassle-free one. Whether you intend to undergo our hernia procedures or other medical services in Singapore, you can rest assured that you will be properly and sufficiently cared for by trained professionals.

Organise a consultation with our surgeons for further assistance on hernia treatments in Singapore.

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