The cases of hernia are increasing rapidly. The Global Burden of Disease Study reported an estimated 32.53 million prevalent cases in 2019, which is still growing. In this case, hernia repair devices emerge as a potent solution, offering precision and accuracy while improving patient outcomes. This blog will explore the importance, benefits, types, and a case study about the remarkable role of devices used in hernia repair.
What are Hernia Repair Devices?
Hernia repair devices are specialized medical devices that are mainly used in surgical procedures to treat hernias. Hernias occur when an internal organ or body part protrudes through a weak area in the muscular wall where it should not. Surgical repair is often necessary to alleviate the hernia and prevent complications.
The main goal of these devices is to strengthen the area where hernias are located to lower the rate of recurrence. While these devices offer efficient outcomes, their adoption in the medical field has increased. According to Extrapolate's latest report, the hernia repair devices market is projected to be valued at $11.47 billion by 2030.
How Do Hernia Repair Devices Work?
Hernia repair devices work by providing support and reinforcement to weakened or damaged tissue in the area of a hernia. During a hernia repair surgery, the device is placed over or within the hernia to help strengthen the surrounding muscle wall. The mesh acts as a platform, promoting tissue growth into and around the device. This helps to close the hernia and prevent it from recurring. The specific technique and mechanism of action may vary depending on the type of device used, but the goal is to provide support and promote healing of the hernia site.
Risks and Complications of Hernia Repair Surgery
Despite surgical processes, hernia repair surgeries show some common risks and complications with or without mesh. Some of them include:
- Pain
- Hernia recurrence
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scar
- Obstruction of the small or large intestine
- Seroma (fluid form at the surgical area)
- Perforation (a hole in adjacent tissues or organs)
Types of Hernia Repair Devices
Below are the common types of hernia repair machines:
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Open Repair
Open repair is a traditional surgical process where the surgeon makes an incision near the hernia and repairs the weak muscle area. This technique is still commonly used for specific types of hernias.
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Surgical Mesh
Surgical mesh is a commonly used device in hernia repair surgeries. It is a flat & flexible weave that supports damaged tissue surrounding the hernia while it heals. The FDA helps people make informed decisions about hernia repair using surgical mesh. It provides information on treatment options, commonly observed complications, adverse event reports and instructions, and questions to discuss with your healthcare provider.
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Robotic Repair
Robotic-assisted surgical devices are also being used in hernia repair surgeries. These devices require small incisions and offer ergonomic benefits for the operating surgeon. They also help with motion scaling, tremor reduction, and improved optics.
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Laparoscopic Repair
Laparoscopic repair is a minimally invasive method where the surgeon makes small incisions and uses a laparoscope and specialized instruments to repair the hernia. This technique can offer faster recovery and less post-operative pain compared to open-repair
10 Pivotal Benefits of Hernia Repair Devices
Below are the 10 benefits of devices used in hernia treatment:
- It is a minimally invasive approach, resulting in smaller incisions and reduced scarring.
- It improves surgical precision and accuracy.
- It reduces post-operative pain and discomfort.
- It offers faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
- It lowers the risk of infection and complications.
- It enhances visualization of the surgical site.
- It reduces the risk of hernia recurrence.
- It is a customizable and adjustable device to fit individual patient needs.
- It ensures less tissue trauma during the repair process.
- It offers expanded treatment options for complex hernias.
Why are Hernia Repair Devices Important?
The studies show that almost 20 million people go through hernia repair surgeries every year, of which around 1.6 million are in the U.S. In this context, hernia repair devices serve as a potent solution. These devices help to reinforce the weakened area, preventing further herniation and reducing the risk of complications.
Devices used in hernia repair enable minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as laparoscopy, which offer benefits like smaller incisions, reduced pain, faster recovery, and improved cosmetic outcomes. According to a study by the National Institute of Health, prosthetic meshes significantly reduce hernia recurrence rates, with a 10-year incisional hernia recurrence rate of 32% compared to 63% for traditional suture repair without mesh.
Case Study: Robots Shaping Hernia Repair Surgeries
The World Journal of Hernia and Abdominal Wall Surgery found that patients undergoing robotic-assisted surgery using a da Vinci surgical system had fewer complications after discharge through 30 days than those who underwent open surgery.
The study, conducted by seven surgeons from six hospitals across the U.S., compared the rates of intra- and post-operation complications before and after the surgery. The results showed that robotic-assisted surgery was associated with a significantly lower rate of complications after discharge through 30 days.
The study also found that open repair and patients aged older than 65 were risk factors for complications after discharge for 30 days. The results support the adoption of robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgery for inguinal hernia.
In a Nutshell
Hernia repair devices are medical tools used to treat hernias. These devices provide support and reinforcement to the weakened area, allowing for proper healing and preventing recurrence. These devices are designed to be minimally invasive, ensuring faster recovery and reduced post-operative complications. Proper selection and placement of hernia repair devices are essential for successful outcomes. Moreover, advances like robots in Hernia surgeries offer more precision and better patient outcomes.
