At operation, the protruding sac is cut off and the stump pushed back inside the abdominal cavity. This sac is formed from the peritoneum, which lines the inside of the abdomen.
The muscle layers of the abdominal wall are then repaired and tightened so as to prevent recurrence. The muscles are pulled tightly together with stitches. Sometimes a layer of stitches or wire is placed between the muscle layers so as to add strength.
The usual stay in hospital is about five days. Most workers are given six weeks off work to recover but the self-employed and those who can be found suitable alternative work involving minimal lifting of restricted weights can return to work within four weeks.
Unfortunately, despite the skill of the surgeon, the hernia may recur and require another operation. This second attempt is always more difficult than the first repair because of the scarring and the difficulty in separating the various muscle layers.
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