| The Shouldice and Lichtenstein Repairs are most often used at the Midwest Hernia Institute. Those patients who desire a "pure tissue repair" will appreciate the four layer overlapping technique designed by Dr. Shouldice of Canada. New procedures such as the "patch repair" utilize Dr. Lichtenstein's tension free techniques. The Gore-Tex soft tissue patch is recommended for recurrent hernias and those with heavy industrial requirements.
Lower Recurrence Rate
A comprehensive follow up system has revealed an overall recurrence rate of less than 1% and an infection rate of 0.5% for the first time hernia patients using either repair.
Improved Technique
Of interest is the fact that most inguinal hernia repairs utilize the standard single layer technique. In contrast, the Shouldice method uses four overlapping layers while Lichtenstein's technique actually reconstructs the normal inguinal floor anatomy using synthetic graft materials. Ventral abdominal hernias are repaired using an overlapping technique or grafting with Surgipro and Sepramesh IP.
Minimal Restrictions With Same Day Surgery
Advanced Techniques produce a much stronger hernia repair. Because of this, most patients can be discharged from the outpatient department with minimal restrictions. Many patients return to work within five to seven days after their surgery. Those patients with heavy industrial jobs typically go back to restricted duty after two weeks while four weeks is the maximum time allowed for convalescence.
Fewer Complications
Complications are few and usually simple, such as temporary discomfort, scrotal edema, a firm edge along the line of the incision and occasionally, and area of skin anesthesia in the upper medial thigh. Testicular atrophy is an uncommon complication. Patients are advised the soreness in the incision during the first week is common. Prolong standing may cause fatigue during the first two weeks and heavy lifting may cause discomfort during he first three to four weeks.
Local/MAC or Epidural Anesthesia
A thorough preoperative evaluation is initiated in our office at which time all medial problems are assessed. The patient may choose either local/mac, epidural or general anesthesia for their hernia surgery.
Satisfies Industrial Requirements
A rehabilitation/work-hardening program based on the individual needs of the patient will be developed. This program includes initial range of motion exercise followed by muscle strengthening and finally, a tailored job specific work hardening program. We encourage our patients early return to work on a restricted or light duty status. Patients are then evaluated postoperatively in the office on a weekly basis until the time of their discharge.
All patients or industrial representatives are encouraged to call with any questions they may have about programs offered by the Midwest Hernia Institute.
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