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Umbilical hernia repair is a simple operation to fix umbilical hernias. An umbilical hernia involves a pouch or bulge forming in the abdomen that occurs when part of the bowel or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in or near the belly button. It is common in infants and children, especially in premature babies. In some cases, it may also develop in adults.
Umbilical hernias are easily treatable. In children, they do not always require surgical repair. However, surgery may be necessary if the hernia:
Causes pain and discomfort
Grows after the child is 1 to 2 years old
The intestines are within the bulge
The hernia becomes trapped
The bulge is still present by the age of 4 years.
For most adults with an umbilical hernia, surgery is recommended because the risk of complications is higher and the hernia is unlikely to get better by itself.
Umbilical hernia repair is performed to push the bulge back into place and to strengthen the weak spot in the abdominal wall.
Before the umbilical hernia repair begins, you are given a general anesthetic, which means you are “asleep” during the procedure and will not feel any pain. Occasionally, local anesthetic may be used instead. With this type of anesthetic, you remain awake but the area being operated on is numbed. A local anesthetic is only used in adults who have a small hernia.
The surgeon will start the procedure by making a small incision of around 2 to 3 cm at the base of the belly button. Then, the fatty lump or loop of the bowel is pushed back into the tummy. Then, the surgeon stitches together the muscle layers at the weak spot where the hernia came through to strengthen them. For adults or for those with large umbilical hernias, a special mesh patch may be used to strengthen the area instead of stitches. Once the surgeon is done fixing the hernia and strengthening the weak spot, the incision is closed with special surgical glue or dissolvable stitches.
You generally should be able to leave the hospital on the same day. However, in some cases, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight. It is recommended that you stay in Barbados for at least 7 days. During your stay, you will need to attend a follow-up checkup where your doctor assesses your healing.
You can gradually resume your normal activities over time until you can do them without feeling any pain. Most patients can perform light activities within 1 or 2 weeks. If you work in an office job, you may be able to return to work in 1 or 2 weeks. However, strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for about 4 to 6 weeks. Therefore, if you work a manual job, it is wise to wait at least 4 weeks until you return to work.
Children can go back to school in about a week, but they should be excused from games and sports for at least 2 weeks. Make sure your children avoid contact sports for 6 to 8 weeks.
Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for yourself or your child at home. It is very important that you follow everything in the instructions. Here are some things you will need to remember:
In most cases, your doctor will give pain-relieving medications to help ease pain and discomfort. Make sure to take the medications as prescribed.
If your doctor does not prescribe pain killers, you can take over-the-counter medications. However, make sure to consult your doctor beforehand. You can give your child paracetamol and ibuprofen. However, do not give your child aspirin if they are under 16 years old.
Wear loose clothing to help reduce any discomfort.
Your doctor will give you instructions to care for the wound and bathing, make sure to follow it.
Make sure to drink lots of fluids and eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, and high-fiber food to avoid constipation as this can cause pain around the wound.
Umbilical hernia repair is a low-risk procedure. It is generally safe and effective. However, an umbilical hernia can reoccur. According to a study, the recurrence rate after umbilical hernia repair is 8.9%.
While the procedure is safe, complications can still occur, particularly if you have other serious medical conditions. It is important that you talk to your doctor if you are concerned about the risks. Other risks of the procedure (unrelated to other medical conditions) are:
Blood clots
Infection
Injury to nearby structures
Allergic reaction to anesthesia.
Treatment for umbilical hernia is not always required as it may resolve by itself. In children, your doctor may be able to push the lump back into the abdomen. However, adults may not have another alternative to surgery.
Before you undergo an umbilical hernia repair, your hernia may cause pain and discomfort. It may also complicate other serious problems. After the procedure, all symptoms should be relieved and there is no risk of the hernia to complicate.
Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers
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Barbados is an island country located in the Caribbean region of North America. This vibrant island nation boasts an abundance of astounding natural beauty, beautiful weather, smashing nightlife, beautiful architecture, and welcoming people. Beyond its white sand beaches and dazzling turquoise bays, Barbados is also an emerging medical tourism destination. It is known as a leading destination for IVF, rehabilitation, and a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments. Hospitals and clinics in the country are equipped with modern technology and high-quality services. The doctors and specialists are highly-trained and international patients can enjoy the country’s beauty and tranquility, while undergoing a medical procedure and holistic therapy at the spa. This allows patients to be at their optimum relaxation when they undergo medical treatment, making the recovery period easier and the success rate higher.
Bridgetown, Barbados’ UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital, is filled with old colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Visitors can go to the beautifully restored Barbados Synagogue, learn more about cricket in the Cricket Legends of Barbados, explore the history of the country in Barbados Museum, and admire the beauty of the neo-Gothic parliament. Those who want to experience the tranquil beaches and the calm Caribbean Sea should visit Holetown. Located 13.5 kilometers from Bridgetown, this beautiful city offers the perfect blend of history with modern-day living. It is lined with world-famous restaurants and museums. The main draw of the city is its beaches, and most tourists come to witness the remarkable sea turtles in their natural habitat, try out paddle boarding, or see the man-made coral reef. Aside from Holetown and Bridgetown, other popular cities are Bathsheba, Oistins. And Speightstown.
International visitors will arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport as the airport serves the US, Canada, Central America, and Europe. A great way to travel around the country is by bus, which is the most affordable mode of transportation. Visitors who need a more flexible option can opt for a taxi. Taxis in the country are not metered, but the fares are regulated by the government based on the distance traveled and the cost is reasonably priced.
Barbados allows citizens of most countries, including Australia, the US, all EU countries, and the UAE, to visit and stay without a visa for up to 180 days. Nationals of other countries, such as Libya and Egypt, need a visa before arrival. All visitors must have a valid passport for at least 6 months.
Located in the tropics, Barbados experience hot sunny days and tropical rain showers during the summer months (mid-April to November). The cooler season (December to mid-April) has dry and less humid weather, making it the best time to visit the country.