Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Abdominal wall reconstruction is a complex surgery that corrects abdominal weaknesses caused by recurring hernias or open wounds. This procedure requires moving abdominal tissues, redistributing the abdominal muscles. This reinforces the midline. In the procedure, the muscle structure is restored as close to the midline as possible.
A hospital stay of one-three days is required after abdominal wall reconstruction. Rarely, one night’s stay in the intensive care unit may be required for patients who have bad heart or lung disease. Patients typically spend the rest of the day of surgery in bed, but by the next day you will be out of bed and moving around. Pain can vary from moderate to severe, depending on the complexity of the surgery. During the first few days, patients receive intravenous pain medication. For some patients, an epidural catheter can be placed at the time of surgery, offering excellent pain relief in the early postoperative period. Once patients begin drinking and eating, oral pain medication is administered. Most people’s pain is adequately controlled with oral medication within a few days. Dr. Mitchell will do everything possible to minimize pain and maximize results.
