 |
||
 |
|
|
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair - Advice following your operation.
Stitches and Dressings:
You will have three small incisions (cuts) in your abdomen. These will be closed with absorbable stitches and may take up to three weeks to heal. They will be covered with dressings which need to be kept dry for five days after which you may take a bath and soak them off. There is no need to replace the dressings.
Pain and Discomfort:
You can expect to have some pain and discomfort for a few days after your operation. You may experience some discomfort in your chest and/or shoulders which is caused by residual gas which is inserted into your abdomen during the operation. You will be given pain relief as required during your stay in the unit and a supply of tablets will be provided for you to take home. Advice on pain relief will be given before you are discharged.
Rest and Activity:
We advise you to rest for 48 hours after your surgery. You should return to normal activities gradually over the next week but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. You should only return to driving when you feel comfortable to do so safely (i.e. you can react safely to an emergency manoeuvre).
Work:
You will need to be off work for at least one week and then only return if you feel well
enough to do so. If in doubt consult your GP.
Food and Drink:
You may eat and drink normally after your operation, but to avoid constipation we advise you to take a high fibre diet.
Coughing:
Most people feel the need to cough after an anaesthetic. If this happens you will find it less painful if you follow these simple instructions.
a. Sit up straight, bend both knees, head slightly down and relax as much as possible.
b. Position your hand over the wound to support it.
c. Breathe in deeply using the upper part of your abdomen (diaphragm) and cough gently twice (one to lift and one to shift).
d. It is quite safe to cough, the stitches will not burst.
If you have had a general anaesthetic today we advise you not to drive a vehicle, operate machinery, take alcoholic drinks or make important decisions for 24 hours. You will need a responsible adult to stay with you for 24 hours following your operation.
Should you need to consult your GP (Family Doctor) with a problem related to your operation within 3 weeks of surgery we would appreciate you contacting the Day Surgery Unit. This will enable us to monitor your progress. Please ask to speak to the liaison nurse (Tel: 01482 675066)
Should you need any further help or advice please telephone the Day Surgery Unit, 8.00am to 8.00pm Monday to Friday (Tel: 01482 675066) At other times, only in an emergency please contact Ward 60, Hull Royal Infirmary (Tel: 01482 674252)
The Day Surgery Unit is continually striving to improve patient information. If you feel we could improve our information we would be pleased to hear from you.
