Hernia after da Vinci RP

Hi Yank31,
Hernia can happen after RP either robotic or open. But they are more common after robotic because of the way it is done. When men have the robotic procedure the lower abdomen cavity is inflated with Co2 to improve visibility through the laparoscope. That's why one of the questions you get asked frequently is if you are having gas releases. The fact that your abdomen gets inflated allows for the possibility of hernia and the tissue that holds things in place is "loosened" up.

Interestingly, another side affect of RP is hernia repair. When I had my LARP in 2007, my physician stated that while he was in there he would repair any pre-existing hernia he saw before closing. It kinda works both ways.

Unlike the RP, hernia repair is a simple procedure. Just an annoyance I guess?

I have 1 too....not really affecting my daily life...sometimes it subsided a bit...

Consulted the Dr. He advices KIV 1st since it is not really bothering me.  I have more important event to monitor ...my elevating PSA is a concern.

I had the old tummy bulge repaired a year before my prostate surgery.

I had lived with it for a few years...Then I bumped it into something.. And boy howdy - that wasn't any fun at all.

You'll want to avoid funny people after the surgery... One little belly laugh and you'll be ready to kill them..

RCS

This is the second time around for me. In 2007 I developed a hernia at my navel and had that repaired with no mesh.

Going into da Vinci surgery this year, the doctor was concerned that he would not be able to complete the operation with the robot as previous abdominal surgeries can cause the abdominal wall to fuse to surrounding tissues, making it impossible to inflate the abdominal cavity with gas.

As soon as I woke up after surgery, they told me they that they had completed the procedure with the robot, but there were "problems". Apparently,they had to insert the camera through another port. I have since found out that if I had had a mesh installed for the 2007 surgery, I would not have been a candidate for the robotic procedure.

I did exercise after da Vinci, mostly walking, stationary bike, and cycling outdoors. I guess my stomach muscles have just gotten weaker with age.

Thanks for your comments.

Hmmmm. One more to add to the list of thinks I'm thankful for... Not getting a hernia from RP. Honestly, this is the first time I even heard that such an outcome sometimes happens.

-Gedman

Hmm. DH is two-weeks post op (robotic RP) and has a slight bulge at the top of the incision above his navel, and slight pain with walking and moving. It's a new pain and a new bulge.

I swear he hasn't done anything strenuous. He's walking (including uphill and stairs).

We've called the doctor who asked us to send photos (he's 3000 miles away). Any chance this isn't a hernia? And, if it is, who repairs it? Thanks!

I had already gone through two inguinal hernia surgeries prior to being diagnosed. Just one more reason why I did not choose surgery.

Melanie

A hernia that large can strangulate and cause an obstruction. If the area around the hernia becomes discolored (resembling bruising), get to an emergency room as soon as possible. I have no idea where you are located, but if I were you, I would seek the advice of a local doctor. If your husband is in that much pain, the sooner you see local help, the better off you are going to be, I think.

And you are correct: A hernia does not repair itself. Surgery is the only way to repair it.

Take care.