I live in Pittsburgh, PA and I had mesh removed in April from a previous repair from 2009 that moved to my abdomen. I am being told by doctors here that the nerve damage or pain I have post operation is chronic pain and will have to live with. From injections to daily medication that will just cover the pain is what they are telling me. I have an active job and after a 12 to 15 hour day the pain at the end of the night and next day is awful.
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Hernia Doctors near Pittsburgh, Pa - by: Kimmefitz1415
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Pain after left Inquinal hernia surgery - by: Beenthere
Here are a few questions that have been nagging at me about my care and follow up.
The morning after surgery I woke up in pain at the time for my next round of pain killers. After an hour taking the medicine the pain stayed the same or worsened at a level 8-9. My wife called the surgeons office but they did not return the call for almost 6 hours and than she was told they were to busy and to give me 2 Tylenol and call in the morning if still in pain. Is this correct response and treatment? I had two other types of surgery in the previously but not hernia.
Two days later I felt something let go in the surgical area and went in to be seen. The surgeon did a very basic exam and said nothing wrong but stated that he inserted the mesh so tight it would never move. Any or what type of short or long term side effects could this cause by having the mesh tightly inserted?
Last about six weeks later while driving I felt like a knife or a ripping internally in the surgical area. Pain level again went up into the 8-9 range with no help form OTC meds for a couple of months than put on 3 types of prescribed meds that reduced the pain down to 5-7 range but had a hard time walking, driving and normal activities. What type of follow up or testing should have been done to find the cause?
The morning after surgery I woke up in pain at the time for my next round of pain killers. After an hour taking the medicine the pain stayed the same or worsened at a level 8-9. My wife called the surgeons office but they did not return the call for almost 6 hours and than she was told they were to busy and to give me 2 Tylenol and call in the morning if still in pain. Is this correct response and treatment? I had two other types of surgery in the previously but not hernia.
Two days later I felt something let go in the surgical area and went in to be seen. The surgeon did a very basic exam and said nothing wrong but stated that he inserted the mesh so tight it would never move. Any or what type of short or long term side effects could this cause by having the mesh tightly inserted?
Last about six weeks later while driving I felt like a knife or a ripping internally in the surgical area. Pain level again went up into the 8-9 range with no help form OTC meds for a couple of months than put on 3 types of prescribed meds that reduced the pain down to 5-7 range but had a hard time walking, driving and normal activities. What type of follow up or testing should have been done to find the cause?
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Do I Have a Hidden/Occult Hernia? - by: hconcept
I am a 56 year old female suffering from abdominal pain, pressure, swelling, and bloating for the past 16 months. I have seen over a dozen doctors, had almost 20 procedures, and numerous labs. And I have no answers. I was perfectly healthy before this. I ate well, slept well, exercised 5-6 days a week, took no medications. Then on 3/23/15-out of the blue-I felt a sharp burning pain go across my abdomen right above my belly button. It only lasted for 15-20 seconds but it took my breath away. About 30 minutes later, my abdomen starting swelling. After another 30 minutes I could feel my abdomen swelling even more and I had to unbutton and unzip my pants. Since then I have had a terrible, gnawing feeling in the abdomen. I can only describe the pain as pieces of glass floating around in there or as someone touching my insides. It makes my skin crawl. The swelling on my abdomen has never gone done. My pain level ranges between 2-8. I never know from day to day how I will feel. Sometimes I have the pain and other times I have pressure that pushes down to the pelvic area. I have seen 3 gynecologists, 6 gastroenterologists, 1 endocrinologist, 1 infectious disease doctor, 1 orthopedist, 1 urologist and have been to the ER. I have had 5 ultrasounds, 1 ct scan, 1 mri, 1 thoracic mri, 2 hyda scans, 1 small bowel series, 1 colonoscopy, 1 endoscopy, 1 endoscopic ultrasound, 1 hysteroscopy, 1 cystoscopy, and a scan for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The procedures show everything is normal. But I am not normal. I cannot stand for more than 40 minutes at a time. I cannot sit for more than 40 minutes. The only time I have relief is when I am lying down. Thank goodness I can sleep at night. I do have trouble bending over and also squatting down. When I do my pain level goes up and also I can feel some type of mass in there at the area where I am bending and it is very uncomfortable. I have asked 3 of my doctors if I might have a hernia. They all said no it would have shown up on the scans. Interestingly, any time I am examined or have a procedure, I am always lying down. Therefore, it's not surprising that they find nothing. The conclusion is that my abdominal issues are not female related, they are not food or bowel movement related. There seems to be nothing wrong with my body structurally. But after reading articles about hidden/occult hernias, I am wondering if that is what I have? I asked 2 of my doctors and they had never heard of that type of hernia; only hiatal hernias. I would appreciate any insight into my symptoms and also any doctors here in the Houston area who might be able to help. Thanks!
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Another hernia 4 weeks after repair? - by: jzinckgra
Hi. 43yo male. I don't know what's going on, but back in April I was diagnosed as having a left sided inguinal hernia. Doctor also noted my "outtie" belly button and said he'd fix that. I told him I was having similar pressure and occasional pain on right side that sometimes went down into my sac. He checked that side and did cough test and said he didn't see any visible buldge nor anything felt in sac but would check during surgery.
I had the lapro surgery 4 weeks ago. All went well, but in the last couple weeks I have had increased pressure and very specific local light to sometime quick sharp pain on right side. It's right in the area I pointed out to him pre-surgery. During surgery he said he checked the right side and there was no hernia present. Basically used the analogy of looking up at a ceiling with tiles and that if there was a missing tile (hernia), he would have saw it.
I went back to him earlier this week for post-op check. All incisions healing well, little to no pain on repaired side, but right side has pain and I can visibly see some slight/mod bulging alongside my right pubic bone. So what could this be? He says it's not a hernia, but I know what the symptoms are based on left side and they seem very similar.
He also said it could be fluid build-up, but this started before surgery, so I'm at a loss. Should I go see him again? He's very confident that there is no hernia, but is possible he didn't look low enough during surgery and he missed it or maybe it hasn't protruded enough to see, despite me being able to see it in the shower. Confused.
I had the lapro surgery 4 weeks ago. All went well, but in the last couple weeks I have had increased pressure and very specific local light to sometime quick sharp pain on right side. It's right in the area I pointed out to him pre-surgery. During surgery he said he checked the right side and there was no hernia present. Basically used the analogy of looking up at a ceiling with tiles and that if there was a missing tile (hernia), he would have saw it.
I went back to him earlier this week for post-op check. All incisions healing well, little to no pain on repaired side, but right side has pain and I can visibly see some slight/mod bulging alongside my right pubic bone. So what could this be? He says it's not a hernia, but I know what the symptoms are based on left side and they seem very similar.
He also said it could be fluid build-up, but this started before surgery, so I'm at a loss. Should I go see him again? He's very confident that there is no hernia, but is possible he didn't look low enough during surgery and he missed it or maybe it hasn't protruded enough to see, despite me being able to see it in the shower. Confused.
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Hernia Diagnosis - by: xaja34
Experienced severe pain in the groin area after a heavy lift. Went to the doctor and he
told me it's impossible to diagnose a hernia before waiting 6 to 8 weeks to allow a possible groin pull or tear to heal. Hernia would not be able to be detected with ultrasound.
Does this sound reasonable ? Thanks
told me it's impossible to diagnose a hernia before waiting 6 to 8 weeks to allow a possible groin pull or tear to heal. Hernia would not be able to be detected with ultrasound.
Does this sound reasonable ? Thanks
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Hernia .. - by: Lucyfiji
havg hernia fr the past seven monthsScared at times n ashamed of myself
Really need help
Thank u
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Choosing Method of Repair - by: Tilbis
- In deciding between open or laparoscopic surgery, how much consideration is given to the risks/negative effects of general anaesthetic vs local - particularly on the brain?
- Do any of the surgeons here perform or recommend the “open preperitoneal” or Kugel technique? From what I understand, the mesh is placed in the back of the muscle (as with laparoscopic repair) but that it can be performed with a keyhole incision and local anaesthetic. According to Dr. Reinhorn of Boston, the recovery time is shorter than with either laparoscopic or traditional inguinal surgery.
- I’ve heard that in female patients, the round ligament is sometimes cut - what determines this and can it cause problems down the road?
- is laparoscopic repair possible without mesh?
Thank you!
- Do any of the surgeons here perform or recommend the “open preperitoneal” or Kugel technique? From what I understand, the mesh is placed in the back of the muscle (as with laparoscopic repair) but that it can be performed with a keyhole incision and local anaesthetic. According to Dr. Reinhorn of Boston, the recovery time is shorter than with either laparoscopic or traditional inguinal surgery.
- I’ve heard that in female patients, the round ligament is sometimes cut - what determines this and can it cause problems down the road?
- is laparoscopic repair possible without mesh?
Thank you!
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Pulsed Radio Frequency ablation treatment? - by: rc009
Hello-Has anyone had PRF for chronic pain from groin hernia surgery? Results? Unlike standard RF ablation it does not heat the nerves. Supposed to modify pain signals . Can be used at nerves or as a spinal at nerve roots.
Thanks.
Thanks.
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Large Incisional Hernia & Ehlers Danlos Syndrome - by: gelf
Almost two years ago, I underwent an emergency appendectomy, which ruptured between seeing the surgeon and the operating table. He had started it laparoscopic and converted to a full cut along my midline. That was a Tuesday night. By Sunday, my belly was swollen with an infection, so they scheduled another surgery (on Labor Day) to do a wash out and install a wound-vac. I spent 12 days in that hospital before I was transfered to a long term acute care hospital (diabetes, 3 IV antibiotics, wound care and general weakness). I was there antoehr 3 weeks before I was discharged home to a home health care nurse and weekly wound care clinic visits. this went on for until after Thanksgiving for the wound to close. the original hole was 18cm x 8cm, so I consider that quite lucky. a few months later my belly was still not pulling in as quick as I'd like. I was diagnosed with a Diastalsis Recti . I started the exercises under the blessings of my surgeon and got a hernia ace bandage. About two months later I noticed the right side was bulging from the incision. I didn't think it was a hernia at first, until a visit to my oncologist radiologist (I had breast cancer and thyroid cancer in 2013). I kept trying to get my surgeon to do something about the hernia. after a 2nd visit to him and the urging of that radiologist he admitted that my hernia was more complicated than he was comfortable with, but there was a new surgeon joining the group in 6 weeks that specialized in laporascopic robot assisted hernia repairs. I was gungho to get with this surgeon. my hernia is uncomfortable and I can't reach the floor properly.
well i met with this surgeon (Dr. Cook) the 2nd week of July. He scheduled a CT scan. in our discussion, he mentioned the possibility of a component surgery to repair it depending on how big it was. I met back with him this morning. My hernia is one of hte largest he has seen. It goes all along that initial scar of 18cm and past it to the pubis area. He does not want to it laparascopically.
So now, I'm to work on loosing some weight and getting my A1C lower. (current weight 272, 5'3", and A1C last reading was 8.2) he wants me down to at least a 7.2 A1C. the last time I was at a 7.3 was a year ago in Sept.
My surgeon has expressed concerns about my Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and doing a component surgery on it., the type of mesh to use etc. Any suggestions?
well i met with this surgeon (Dr. Cook) the 2nd week of July. He scheduled a CT scan. in our discussion, he mentioned the possibility of a component surgery to repair it depending on how big it was. I met back with him this morning. My hernia is one of hte largest he has seen. It goes all along that initial scar of 18cm and past it to the pubis area. He does not want to it laparascopically.
So now, I'm to work on loosing some weight and getting my A1C lower. (current weight 272, 5'3", and A1C last reading was 8.2) he wants me down to at least a 7.2 A1C. the last time I was at a 7.3 was a year ago in Sept.
My surgeon has expressed concerns about my Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and doing a component surgery on it., the type of mesh to use etc. Any suggestions?
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Surgery VS Watchful Waiting - by: Tilbis
Hello,
I’ve been debating for many months whether or not to have surgery for small, hidden, inguinal hernia. The pain is intermittent (i.e. a few days of significant discomfort followed a week or two of almost no pain). The pain is a pinching, pulling aching from the pubic bone to the hip. Sports and activity do not generally provoke pain so my life is not really limited per se - I’m just chronically uncomfortable. On bad days, I feel lousy. I lose my mojo and feel convinced that surgery is the right thing. But then it passes and I think (particularly after reading statistics and stories…) that I would be foolish to risk my relatively OK quality of life.
With hopes you can help me (and others) weigh my symptoms versus risk of post-operative pain, I have a few more questions:
- According to the Manual of Groin Pain, “preoperative groin pain predicts an increased likelihood of postoperative chronic groin pain”. Can anyone clarify why this is so? Is it because groin pain is more often caused by something other than the hernia (as was told to me by one surgeon). As groin pain is a common symptom of hernia - and one of the main reasons for risking surgery - it’s something of a conundrum!
- Is intermittent pain typical of hernia? If so, would you say this is because pain is felt when the piece of tissue is lodged in the canal causing pressure - and relieved when it is not?
- Is it true that small hernias are at greater risk of strangulation than big ones?
- Is it possible that a hernia will become less painful when the hole gets bigger thus relieving some pressure?
- Would nerve blocks be a viable alternative to surgery in some cases (this has been suggested by my GP).
- And finally, some doctors are of the opinion that ALL groin hernias in women should be fixed. Do the doctors on this forum have thoughts on this? Dr. Towfigh refers to the Veteran’s study in the New England Journal of Medicine in which many waited with no complications. Am I correct in assuming the subjects were all men? Can small hernias in women be safely watched - and possibly never fixed? (BTW, I am a healthy 56 year old female).
Many thanks!
I’ve been debating for many months whether or not to have surgery for small, hidden, inguinal hernia. The pain is intermittent (i.e. a few days of significant discomfort followed a week or two of almost no pain). The pain is a pinching, pulling aching from the pubic bone to the hip. Sports and activity do not generally provoke pain so my life is not really limited per se - I’m just chronically uncomfortable. On bad days, I feel lousy. I lose my mojo and feel convinced that surgery is the right thing. But then it passes and I think (particularly after reading statistics and stories…) that I would be foolish to risk my relatively OK quality of life.
With hopes you can help me (and others) weigh my symptoms versus risk of post-operative pain, I have a few more questions:
- According to the Manual of Groin Pain, “preoperative groin pain predicts an increased likelihood of postoperative chronic groin pain”. Can anyone clarify why this is so? Is it because groin pain is more often caused by something other than the hernia (as was told to me by one surgeon). As groin pain is a common symptom of hernia - and one of the main reasons for risking surgery - it’s something of a conundrum!
- Is intermittent pain typical of hernia? If so, would you say this is because pain is felt when the piece of tissue is lodged in the canal causing pressure - and relieved when it is not?
- Is it true that small hernias are at greater risk of strangulation than big ones?
- Is it possible that a hernia will become less painful when the hole gets bigger thus relieving some pressure?
- Would nerve blocks be a viable alternative to surgery in some cases (this has been suggested by my GP).
- And finally, some doctors are of the opinion that ALL groin hernias in women should be fixed. Do the doctors on this forum have thoughts on this? Dr. Towfigh refers to the Veteran’s study in the New England Journal of Medicine in which many waited with no complications. Am I correct in assuming the subjects were all men? Can small hernias in women be safely watched - and possibly never fixed? (BTW, I am a healthy 56 year old female).
Many thanks!
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No mesh hernia surgeon in Iowa? - by: MO
Does anyone know of any no mesh hernia surgeons in Iowa?
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hernia surgery that went wrong.. a total mystery.. - by: basikboy10
goodday everyone. im looking for some info to help out in any way concerning my dad. he did a regular hernia surgery in 2010 using the mesh but after a year we realised that the cut was not closing up entirely and it left a hole. when we carry my dad to the clinic for his chech up a nurse took her finger and ripped out the stiches through that tiny hole so he was in alot of pain. afterwards we took him to the surgeon when we realised nothing was looking good and he drilled the hole to see if it would heal bk properly and it never did. recently, my dad did 3 major surgeries cutting both left and right of the groin because from the ct scan and ultrasound they realised on the inside that everything was infected really bad and was life threatening. due to how serious it was they had to do those surgeries within a space of one month which was a risk but he made it through. after these surgeries he was good for some days until he started gettin really bad pains from the knees come right up to the groin including testicles and etc. they gave him acoxia and panadeine but he is 72 yrs old and he couldnt take too much although he gets an ease up. reason they had to do these surgeries was because the mesh broke up into pieces and spreaded all over his groin area. the surgeon keeps tellin us that hes okay but hes not.. he has a soft lump where the right sided cut was on the groin and a doctor told us that it could be a blood clot.. can anyone tell me about this situation please ???were from trinidad and tobago so travelling is impossible... by the way when i mentioned that the hole wasnt closing up; my dad had to go to the clinic for a check up every month when he first did the surgery and a nurse took her finger and stuck it in the hole and ripped everything out and thats where we believed everything went wrong.. can someone please read this and help out please
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Inguinal Hernia Tenderness - by: redlotus
I am a 57 year old female who 4 years ago was diagnosis with a groin inguinal hernia. It was a small tear so they did not suggest surgery. In the last week I noticed that the area where the hernia is was larger and very tender. There is no pain associated but random spasms with this new development but I am concerned that it may have torn more. I tried to research this but came up empty handed. Is this something I should be concerned about?
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Looking for a Hernia Specialist near North Alabama - by: rosesnrubies
Hello all,
I have had groin pain for more than 6 months now, and have been through many doctors and tests all of which have been nonhelpful (doctors) and inconclusive (tests). I will detail history below, but can anyone please recommend a specialist in the area near Huntsville, AL (I can drive to Birmingham, Nashville, Atlanta - I would just as soon fly to Dr. Towfigh if none is available in any of those areas)?
I very much appreciate any help!
Melissa
* As a preface, I am an engineer by degree and profession (for 12+ years) who has gone back to school for nursing very recently (and slowly). I have a knowledge base of core classes like anatomy/physiology and whatnot to reference where the pain is occurring, for instance (inguinal region, left side), and I am aware of the capabilities and limitations of imaging options. All imaging was done static (non-provocative), all ultrasound was pretty shallow and was never actually passed over the groin crease or thigh. I had requested ultrasound in those areas and was basically ignored, and requested provocative imaging and the same happened. I think at this point I am honestly just fatigued with the entire set of medical providers in this region, as they each seem to be subscribing to an incredibly powerful repertoire of selective perceptions and buck passing, combined with absolute astonishment when someone wants them to spend more than five minutes total doing an exam. But, I digress.
History (Groin Pain):
2015 August to December: Intermittent left side groin pain (less than once per day) - described as a 'pang'
2016 January: Stepping onto left leg causes stab of pain in left groin. Pain is more frequent
2016 April: Pain is consistent daily; seek help from gynecologist
➔ Pelvic exam (internal/external) Hurts when pressure applied
➔ Ultrasound (transvaginal) Minor cyst noted on OPPOSITE side ovary
➔ Recommendation: Aleve (prescription strength) 2x/day, 3 weeks; suggests will likely help if pain is musculoskeletal
➔ 2016 May: Aleve does not help with pain
2016 May: Seek help from primary care physician
➔ Blood Test and Urinalysis No findings
➔ Ultrasound (pelvic) No findings
➔ CT Scan (abdominal/pelvic) No findings
➔ Referral to orthopedic surgeon to 'rule out musculoskeletal causes'
2016 June: Appointment with Orthopedic surgeon
➔ Physical Exam (manipulation of legs and hips to attempt to incite pain) Does not increase pain
➔ Physical Exam (external pressure applied to area of pain) Hurts
➔ Suggests based on exam cause is not musculoskeletal, and is likely more superficial than muscle or bone
➔ MRI (left hip) No findings.
➔ ? Uncertain why MRI was ordered of only left hip (midline to edge) and not pelvic region.
➔ Dr’s Aide calls and suggests physical therapy despite doctor ruling out musculoskeletal root cause during exam
2016 June: Seek help from general surgeon - unsure how else to get help finding root cause
➔ Gave surgeon entire history up to this point in writing, including references to Dr. Towfigh's research and media
➔ Surgeon says there is no way inguinal hernia would hurt where I pointed to
➔ Surgeon feels thigh and asks me to cough; says no way there's a femoral hernia
➔ Suggests physical therapy, weight loss...
➔ Says he will refer me to neurologist (at my insistence)
Tests Done:
2016 April: Ultrasound (Transvaginal) - 3cm cyst/R ovary (Gyn)
2016 April: Pregnancy Test - Not pregnant (not ectopic)
2016 May: Urinalysis - No findings
2016 May: Blood Test - No findings
2016 May: Ultrasound, Pelvic - No findings (PCP)
2016 May: CT Scan (Abdominal and Pelvic) - No findings (PCP)
2016 June: MRI Left Hip - No Findings (Ortho)
Prior Surgery:
2015 July: Tubal Ligation (laparoscopic, Filshie Clips)
Photo attached with diagram of pain location; pain also radiates down inner thigh (burning feeling)
Pain Descriptions:
● Left inguinal region primarily; radiates to left labia majora, left inner thigh, left abdomen
● Continuous most days from waking to sleep (and during)
● Most recently, occasional numb feeling in inner/back thigh
● Varies in intensity
● Worse in evening, or after much activity/walking
● Usually gradually increases; has been sudden (from dull to sharp in seconds, walking in the store)
● At worst: Affects appetite, sleep, work, home responsibilities cannot walk to car in parking lot without multiple breaks
● Deep, sore, aching
● Dull, throbbing (usually when not walking)
● Warm/Hot, Radiating, Burning (both heat and pain)
● Sharp, Stabbing, Shooting (usually when walking, though has happened when sitting/sleeping)
● Pinching, constricting
● Pressure, bloated?
● Tender pretty much always
Makes Pain Worse (usually):
● Walking - specifically when stepping onto left leg, heel hurts worst, though toe still does hurt
● Standing for prolonged periods
● Standing, at any point after pain has become bad
● Bending down
● Laying on Left Side
● Being on hands and knees facing down (down dog yoga position)
● Emptying bladder (less frequently; pain occurs when bladder nears completely empty); also very uncomfortable (moreso than usual) when bladder is full
● Straining during bowel movement (sometimes)
Makes Pain Better (usually):
● Straightening all the way out flat on back
● Sitting (not hunched over)/Leaning Back (decreasing angle between back and thighs)
● Holding fist at area of pain and applying gentle pressure (this could be psychosomatic - it just hurts so bad I do it anyways)
References given to doctor:
● “In Women, Hernias May be Hidden Agony”, www.nytimes.com/2011/05/17/health/17brody.html?_r=0
● “How Hernias Can Cause Pelvic Pain”, www.pelvicpainrehab.com/uncategorized/35...amaycausepelvicpain/
● “His and Hers Hernias: Pelvic Pain Culprit Tough to Diagnose in Women”, www.huffingtonpost.com/glenndbraunsteinm...spelvi_b_950590.html
● “Hernias in Women: Uncommon, or Unrecognized?”, laparoscopy.blogs.com/laparoscopy_today/...Fs/Laparoscopy31.pdf pg 8
● “Hernia Symptom in Women”, www.beverlyhillsherniacenter.com/herniasymptomsinwomen.html
I have had groin pain for more than 6 months now, and have been through many doctors and tests all of which have been nonhelpful (doctors) and inconclusive (tests). I will detail history below, but can anyone please recommend a specialist in the area near Huntsville, AL (I can drive to Birmingham, Nashville, Atlanta - I would just as soon fly to Dr. Towfigh if none is available in any of those areas)?
I very much appreciate any help!
Melissa
* As a preface, I am an engineer by degree and profession (for 12+ years) who has gone back to school for nursing very recently (and slowly). I have a knowledge base of core classes like anatomy/physiology and whatnot to reference where the pain is occurring, for instance (inguinal region, left side), and I am aware of the capabilities and limitations of imaging options. All imaging was done static (non-provocative), all ultrasound was pretty shallow and was never actually passed over the groin crease or thigh. I had requested ultrasound in those areas and was basically ignored, and requested provocative imaging and the same happened. I think at this point I am honestly just fatigued with the entire set of medical providers in this region, as they each seem to be subscribing to an incredibly powerful repertoire of selective perceptions and buck passing, combined with absolute astonishment when someone wants them to spend more than five minutes total doing an exam. But, I digress.
History (Groin Pain):
2015 August to December: Intermittent left side groin pain (less than once per day) - described as a 'pang'
2016 January: Stepping onto left leg causes stab of pain in left groin. Pain is more frequent
2016 April: Pain is consistent daily; seek help from gynecologist
➔ Pelvic exam (internal/external) Hurts when pressure applied
➔ Ultrasound (transvaginal) Minor cyst noted on OPPOSITE side ovary
➔ Recommendation: Aleve (prescription strength) 2x/day, 3 weeks; suggests will likely help if pain is musculoskeletal
➔ 2016 May: Aleve does not help with pain
2016 May: Seek help from primary care physician
➔ Blood Test and Urinalysis No findings
➔ Ultrasound (pelvic) No findings
➔ CT Scan (abdominal/pelvic) No findings
➔ Referral to orthopedic surgeon to 'rule out musculoskeletal causes'
2016 June: Appointment with Orthopedic surgeon
➔ Physical Exam (manipulation of legs and hips to attempt to incite pain) Does not increase pain
➔ Physical Exam (external pressure applied to area of pain) Hurts
➔ Suggests based on exam cause is not musculoskeletal, and is likely more superficial than muscle or bone
➔ MRI (left hip) No findings.
➔ ? Uncertain why MRI was ordered of only left hip (midline to edge) and not pelvic region.
➔ Dr’s Aide calls and suggests physical therapy despite doctor ruling out musculoskeletal root cause during exam
2016 June: Seek help from general surgeon - unsure how else to get help finding root cause
➔ Gave surgeon entire history up to this point in writing, including references to Dr. Towfigh's research and media
➔ Surgeon says there is no way inguinal hernia would hurt where I pointed to
➔ Surgeon feels thigh and asks me to cough; says no way there's a femoral hernia
➔ Suggests physical therapy, weight loss...
➔ Says he will refer me to neurologist (at my insistence)
Tests Done:
2016 April: Ultrasound (Transvaginal) - 3cm cyst/R ovary (Gyn)
2016 April: Pregnancy Test - Not pregnant (not ectopic)
2016 May: Urinalysis - No findings
2016 May: Blood Test - No findings
2016 May: Ultrasound, Pelvic - No findings (PCP)
2016 May: CT Scan (Abdominal and Pelvic) - No findings (PCP)
2016 June: MRI Left Hip - No Findings (Ortho)
Prior Surgery:
2015 July: Tubal Ligation (laparoscopic, Filshie Clips)
Photo attached with diagram of pain location; pain also radiates down inner thigh (burning feeling)
Pain Descriptions:
● Left inguinal region primarily; radiates to left labia majora, left inner thigh, left abdomen
● Continuous most days from waking to sleep (and during)
● Most recently, occasional numb feeling in inner/back thigh
● Varies in intensity
● Worse in evening, or after much activity/walking
● Usually gradually increases; has been sudden (from dull to sharp in seconds, walking in the store)
● At worst: Affects appetite, sleep, work, home responsibilities cannot walk to car in parking lot without multiple breaks
● Deep, sore, aching
● Dull, throbbing (usually when not walking)
● Warm/Hot, Radiating, Burning (both heat and pain)
● Sharp, Stabbing, Shooting (usually when walking, though has happened when sitting/sleeping)
● Pinching, constricting
● Pressure, bloated?
● Tender pretty much always
Makes Pain Worse (usually):
● Walking - specifically when stepping onto left leg, heel hurts worst, though toe still does hurt
● Standing for prolonged periods
● Standing, at any point after pain has become bad
● Bending down
● Laying on Left Side
● Being on hands and knees facing down (down dog yoga position)
● Emptying bladder (less frequently; pain occurs when bladder nears completely empty); also very uncomfortable (moreso than usual) when bladder is full
● Straining during bowel movement (sometimes)
Makes Pain Better (usually):
● Straightening all the way out flat on back
● Sitting (not hunched over)/Leaning Back (decreasing angle between back and thighs)
● Holding fist at area of pain and applying gentle pressure (this could be psychosomatic - it just hurts so bad I do it anyways)
References given to doctor:
● “In Women, Hernias May be Hidden Agony”, www.nytimes.com/2011/05/17/health/17brody.html?_r=0
● “How Hernias Can Cause Pelvic Pain”, www.pelvicpainrehab.com/uncategorized/35...amaycausepelvicpain/
● “His and Hers Hernias: Pelvic Pain Culprit Tough to Diagnose in Women”, www.huffingtonpost.com/glenndbraunsteinm...spelvi_b_950590.html
● “Hernias in Women: Uncommon, or Unrecognized?”, laparoscopy.blogs.com/laparoscopy_today/...Fs/Laparoscopy31.pdf pg 8
● “Hernia Symptom in Women”, www.beverlyhillsherniacenter.com/herniasymptomsinwomen.html
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Any No-Mesh hernia surgeons in Iowa? - by: MO
Does anyone know of any no mesh hernia surgeons in Iowa?
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Lowest risk surgery type to resolve groin pain? - by: Chaunce123
OK here is a question that I think many others may have that pertains to hernia surgery preference...
Let's say a patient has groin pain or pelvic pain, and there is an imaging study suggestion of a potential hernia BUT it is not conclusive and not certain if that is the cause of the pain.... is there a specific surgery type that is best suited for optimal chance at resolving the pain with the lowest potential of side effects? Is one surgery type more suitable than another for this type of situation?
Does the surgery type matter? Given the goal is either for maximum relief from pain IF hernia is the cause, OR at least minimum risk of further pain and minimum risk of complications.
Is it better to have a no mesh tissue repair because it would avoid any potential for later mesh complications?
Is it better to have laparascopy because it is easier to visualize a potential hernia before fixing it?
Or is open mesh repair better because it is easier to treat potential complications?
Do any of the distinguished doctors here have some experience or opinions to share with these type of situations? Is there any data or studies on these type of situations for uncertain groin pain and outcomes after attempted hernia repairs?
Let's say a patient has groin pain or pelvic pain, and there is an imaging study suggestion of a potential hernia BUT it is not conclusive and not certain if that is the cause of the pain.... is there a specific surgery type that is best suited for optimal chance at resolving the pain with the lowest potential of side effects? Is one surgery type more suitable than another for this type of situation?
Does the surgery type matter? Given the goal is either for maximum relief from pain IF hernia is the cause, OR at least minimum risk of further pain and minimum risk of complications.
Is it better to have a no mesh tissue repair because it would avoid any potential for later mesh complications?
Is it better to have laparascopy because it is easier to visualize a potential hernia before fixing it?
Or is open mesh repair better because it is easier to treat potential complications?
Do any of the distinguished doctors here have some experience or opinions to share with these type of situations? Is there any data or studies on these type of situations for uncertain groin pain and outcomes after attempted hernia repairs?
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Can't get a diagnosis. Could this be a hernia? - by: sara111
Hello,
For one year now I've had undiagnosed pelvic pain. It started as left-sided vaginal pain (internal), that spread over time to anus, buttock, hip and tailbone pain. It is a burning, stinging, aching pain. The vaginal pain is constant, other areas it comes and goes. Between 2 and 4 out of 10. Also had persistent CD21-28 day spotting. Periods otherwise normal.
Gynaecologist said Endomentriosis but lap showed only adhesions, prob from c-sec three years ago. MRI showed nothing. All swabs/urine tests clear. At a loss, he then diagnosed idiopathic pudendal neuralgia. Second gynaecologist said scar tissue inside vagina causing problems with nerves (thought he maybe could feel 'something' - first dr could feel/see nothing at all) caused from vaginal delivery (I found this difficult to understand as that was 5 years ago). He also wasn't really sure.
Pelvic floor PT said pelvic muscles on left side were rock hard but she couldn't tell if this was the result of an issue or the causes of the pain. She deals mainly with incontinence and is the only one within 6hrs. Gave some exercises which temporarily relive pain. Said my pelvic floor muscles were very strong so exercises to relax it.
Gastro performed colonoscopy (I wasn't convinced necessary but small family history so agreed as precaution) and this was totally clear.
Hormone tests showed low but within normal range progesterone, and very low testosterone. No indication of early menopause. I am 34.
Pain is nearly gone during exercise, hot shower, bowel movement or urination, and stretching. It worsens immediately when I sit or stand still. It does NOT worsen when I lift (e.g. toddler) or get out of bed etc. Stress makes the pain worse too. I only very rarely have very mild groin pain when the buttuck/hip/back of thigh pain is bad. All other times groin is totally fine. No bulges etc.
My primary dr thinks it's a muscular problem - chronic tensing of the pelvic floor muscles. But no one seems confident in their diagnosis. A hernia doesn't seem likely from what I've read but I just thought I'd ask as I'm so desperate for a diagnosis and way to get out of this pain. Thank you.
For one year now I've had undiagnosed pelvic pain. It started as left-sided vaginal pain (internal), that spread over time to anus, buttock, hip and tailbone pain. It is a burning, stinging, aching pain. The vaginal pain is constant, other areas it comes and goes. Between 2 and 4 out of 10. Also had persistent CD21-28 day spotting. Periods otherwise normal.
Gynaecologist said Endomentriosis but lap showed only adhesions, prob from c-sec three years ago. MRI showed nothing. All swabs/urine tests clear. At a loss, he then diagnosed idiopathic pudendal neuralgia. Second gynaecologist said scar tissue inside vagina causing problems with nerves (thought he maybe could feel 'something' - first dr could feel/see nothing at all) caused from vaginal delivery (I found this difficult to understand as that was 5 years ago). He also wasn't really sure.
Pelvic floor PT said pelvic muscles on left side were rock hard but she couldn't tell if this was the result of an issue or the causes of the pain. She deals mainly with incontinence and is the only one within 6hrs. Gave some exercises which temporarily relive pain. Said my pelvic floor muscles were very strong so exercises to relax it.
Gastro performed colonoscopy (I wasn't convinced necessary but small family history so agreed as precaution) and this was totally clear.
Hormone tests showed low but within normal range progesterone, and very low testosterone. No indication of early menopause. I am 34.
Pain is nearly gone during exercise, hot shower, bowel movement or urination, and stretching. It worsens immediately when I sit or stand still. It does NOT worsen when I lift (e.g. toddler) or get out of bed etc. Stress makes the pain worse too. I only very rarely have very mild groin pain when the buttuck/hip/back of thigh pain is bad. All other times groin is totally fine. No bulges etc.
My primary dr thinks it's a muscular problem - chronic tensing of the pelvic floor muscles. But no one seems confident in their diagnosis. A hernia doesn't seem likely from what I've read but I just thought I'd ask as I'm so desperate for a diagnosis and way to get out of this pain. Thank you.
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parietex progrip removal, an exercise in futility? - by: marcello71
I had bi-lateral inguinal + umbilical hernia surgery with 3 pieces of covidien mesh(2 pieces of parietex progrip in groin & 1 piece of symbotex composite in umbilical) implanted in Feb 2015. It all began from me lifting things for my mother in Oct 2014 when I became over exerted feeling like things had sunk downward a bit in my stomache which followed with almost 10 days of constipation. After a ct scan at the ER showed only 1 very small umbilical defect containing fat, the ER doc came in saying "the radiologist only sees one hernia in there but I felt an inguinal hernia too, its there trust me" so I was sent to a surgeon. The first I went to said, "you don't have any hernias, come back if something pops out". So I went for a second opinion with that surgeon saying, "you have four hernias and I can fix them for you but I need to use mesh". So being frightened of one of these hernias popping out into my scrotum costing me a testicle, I had the surgery which he did laparoscopically tapp. after the surgery I said to him, "so you used 3 pieces of mesh, those hernias were bad huh? I mean it was necessary then huh?" to which he replied "well it would of been necessary in the next 3-5 yrs probably, it was a preventative procedure" I was shocked. Since the surgery I have had all sorts of complications from allergic/autoimmune(bloating, swelling, inflammation, tremors/shaking, etc.) to groin/testicular pain(between 2-8 out of 10 at times) as well as vascular issues with my genitals turning purple at times of pain & activity. This prompted me to get other opinions with numerous surgeons since the surgery saying, "I don't see why he did the surgery in the first place, you had no real hernias". Finding out it was completely unnecessary has added definite psychological trauma, missery & depression to my situation especially since I was a completely healthy & fit(6'1", 190 lb) 29 yr old guy before this surgery. So finally I am here to ask what the optimal timeframe is to attempt to remove this parietex progrip & is it even possible without me losing a testicle? Because of the Polylactic acid microgrips that take 18 months to dissolve, is it better to attempt removal sooner to prevent more tissue in-growth or later once the microgrips have dissolved? I also believe I may have a solution or idea to dissolving them quicker or de-laminating it easier so to speak from all the vital structures in the pre-peritoneal space(triangle of doom: epigastric/iliac vessels, triangle of pain: sperm cord/ilioinguinal & other nerves) and wish to have a surgeon confirm or deny its feasibility...
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Finding no-mesh inguinal hernia surgeons on west coast? - by: Robo
I am looking for hernia surgeons on the west coast who do no-mesh inguinal repairs on a regular basis, enough so they that have confidence in the procedure with good outcomes.
Does anyone have any leads for this? Any and all west coast locations are fine. I am Washington based but will travel as necessary. Thank you in advance.
Does anyone have any leads for this? Any and all west coast locations are fine. I am Washington based but will travel as necessary. Thank you in advance.
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Surgery VS Watchful Waiting - by: Tilbis
Hello,
I’ve been debating for many months whether or not to have surgery for small, hidden, inguinal hernia. The pain is intermittent (i.e. a few days of significant discomfort followed a week or two of almost no pain). The pain is a pinching, pulling aching from the pubic bone to the hip. Sports and activity do not generally provoke pain so my life is not really limited per se - I’m just chronically uncomfortable. On bad days, I feel lousy. I lose my mojo and feel convinced that surgery is the right thing. But then it passes and I think (particularly after reading statistics and stories…) that I would be foolish to risk my relatively OK quality of life.
With hopes you can help me (and others) weigh my symptoms versus risk of post-operative pain, I have a few more questions:
- According to the Manual of Groin Pain, “preoperative groin pain predicts an increased likelihood of postoperative chronic groin pain”. Can anyone clarify why this is so? Is it because groin pain is more often caused by something other than the hernia (as was told to me by one surgeon). As groin pain is a common symptom of hernia - and one of the main reasons for risking surgery - it’s something of a conundrum!
- Is intermittent pain typical of hernia? If so, would you say this is because pain is felt when the piece of tissue is lodged in the canal causing pressure - and relieved when it is not?
- Is it true that small hernias are at greater risk of strangulation than big ones?
- Is it possible that a hernia will become less painful when the hole gets bigger thus relieving some pressure?
- Would nerve blocks be a viable alternative to surgery in some cases (this has been suggested by my GP).
- And finally, some doctors are of the opinion that ALL groin hernias in women should be fixed. Do the doctors on this forum have thoughts on this? Dr. Towfigh refers to the Veteran’s study in the New England Journal of Medicine in which many waited with no complications. Am I correct in assuming the subjects were all men? Can small hernias in women be safely watched - and possibly never fixed? (BTW, I am a healthy 56 year old female).
Many thanks!
I’ve been debating for many months whether or not to have surgery for small, hidden, inguinal hernia. The pain is intermittent (i.e. a few days of significant discomfort followed a week or two of almost no pain). The pain is a pinching, pulling aching from the pubic bone to the hip. Sports and activity do not generally provoke pain so my life is not really limited per se - I’m just chronically uncomfortable. On bad days, I feel lousy. I lose my mojo and feel convinced that surgery is the right thing. But then it passes and I think (particularly after reading statistics and stories…) that I would be foolish to risk my relatively OK quality of life.
With hopes you can help me (and others) weigh my symptoms versus risk of post-operative pain, I have a few more questions:
- According to the Manual of Groin Pain, “preoperative groin pain predicts an increased likelihood of postoperative chronic groin pain”. Can anyone clarify why this is so? Is it because groin pain is more often caused by something other than the hernia (as was told to me by one surgeon). As groin pain is a common symptom of hernia - and one of the main reasons for risking surgery - it’s something of a conundrum!
- Is intermittent pain typical of hernia? If so, would you say this is because pain is felt when the piece of tissue is lodged in the canal causing pressure - and relieved when it is not?
- Is it true that small hernias are at greater risk of strangulation than big ones?
- Is it possible that a hernia will become less painful when the hole gets bigger thus relieving some pressure?
- Would nerve blocks be a viable alternative to surgery in some cases (this has been suggested by my GP).
- And finally, some doctors are of the opinion that ALL groin hernias in women should be fixed. Do the doctors on this forum have thoughts on this? Dr. Towfigh refers to the Veteran’s study in the New England Journal of Medicine in which many waited with no complications. Am I correct in assuming the subjects were all men? Can small hernias in women be safely watched - and possibly never fixed? (BTW, I am a healthy 56 year old female).
Many thanks!
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