This topic is about dealing with a hernia recurrence beneath a stoma after a previous mesh repair. The person sharing their experience had a parastomal hernia repaired with surgical mesh a year ago, but unfortunately, the hernia has come back, pushing through the mesh. While waiting for another surgery, they are experiencing significant pain around and beneath their ostomy appliance, describing one side of their abdomen as feeling "like a volcano." They are seeking advice and experiences from others who might have faced similar challenges.
Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:
1. Hernia Belts and Binders:
- Some people manage parastomal hernias using custom-fitted belts from NU HOPE LABORATORIES, which can be ordered through a physician. These belts help keep the hernia in place and relieve discomfort, potentially avoiding or delaying further surgery.
2. Concerns About Mesh Repairs:
- There is a noted high failure rate, around 65% or more, with standard keyhole mesh repairs. Some individuals have needed additional surgeries to remove or replace the mesh.
- An investigation into surgical mesh complications is ongoing, and many ostomates are keeping a close eye on it when considering mesh repairs.
3. Alternative Surgical Technique:
- The modified Sugarbaker procedure is reported to have a much higher success rate, about 96%. One person traveled to Philadelphia, USA, for this type of repair and reported good results six months after the operation.
- However, only a few surgeons in the United States currently perform the modified Sugarbaker procedure, so patients might need to seek out specialized centers.
4. Non-Surgical Management:
- Besides using belts, some people use hernia plugs to prevent the defect from getting larger. They choose to avoid further surgery unless their symptoms worsen.
See full discusison