Medical Questions > Conditions and Diseases > Hernia Forum

Loose tack?

Must Read
What is a hiatal hernia?
We review the definition of a hiatal hernia, what causes it, and types of hernias in this Introduction to Hiatal Hernia....
Read more >>
Hiatal Hernia Symptoms
Do you know the difference between a small and large hiatal hernia? Know when to seek medical help? Hiatal hernia symptoms and more here....
Read more >>
Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis
Hiatal hernias are diagnosed clinically. But what lab tests and procedures can help confirm hiatal hernia? We review the medical exams here....
Read more >>
Conditions and Diseases
loose motions and i feel a bit sick?
abdomen pain/loose stools
chronic loose/watery stool for over a mo...
Hernia
open repair herina surgery ...workout
Mesh removal experience sought
What to expect from inguinal hernia repa...
Related Topics
occasional loose bowel movements?
i feel like a big LOOSER ; i am depresse...
how to loose weight?
June 23rd, 2011
My husband Tom,[73/140#/6'1] underwent a hernia repair about 9 months ago. For 5 months he's been experiencing a type of inflammation/ache in his left side, like a pulled muscle would feel like, after most activities, like swimming , walking, light exercising.
The pain extends just above the surgery site and wraps around the back, down to his left testicle.

Tom's seen a general surgeon who did an in-office ultrasound, showing nothing. The doctor said an X-ray and MRI/CT wouldn't show anything, like a loose tack---is this true?
Something must be going on to give Tom this discomfort everyday.

What could be going on? Is there a specialist he should see that might be able to pinpoint this problem?

Please respond as soon as possible-other doctor forums never gave me a response.

Thank you so much.
Nancy W.
Did you find this post helpful?
|
User Profile
replied June 26th, 2011
Unfortunately, 3 to 5 percent of patients experience intermittent or constant chronic pain following inguinal hernia surgery.

A recurrent hernia needs to be ruled out first (ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI scan may be used, individually or in combination) if an obvious recurrence is not apparent on physical examination.

If no hernia recurrence is demonstrated, then an injection of steroid and anesthetic solution into the scar may provide some relief. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can also help many patients with chronic pain following hernia surgery. In some patients who are disabled by pain following inguinal hernia, a repeat surgery to destroy any damaged sensory nerves ("triple neurectomy") may be helpful in some cases.


Sincerely,


Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS

www.doctorwascher.com

Author, "A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race"


A landmark, evidence-based guide to a healthy cancer-prevention lifestyle, based on cutting-edge cancer research.
|
Did you find this post helpful?
Sign up for FREE weekly health tips!
... Saving
Ask a doctor

Featured Experts
Dr. Robert Wascher
Dr. Robert Wascher
Surgery, Surgical Oncology
AjitKukreja
Ajit Kukreja
Gastroenterologist, Colorectal Surgeon, ...
eHealthPedia Articles
Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis
Hiatal Hernia Symptoms
Hiatal Hernia Treatment
What is a hiatal hernia?
DISCLAIMER: "Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals. For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our medical experts page. You may also visit our Hernia , for moderated patient to patient support and information.

The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician. Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.