Groin Pain After Minimally Invasive Hernia Surgery

Q: Groin Pain After Minimally Invasive Hernia Surgery

Hello： Minimally invasive surgery may affect the abdomen, so there may be some abdominal symptoms, and the incision may be slightly swollen and feel firm. <br>If there is no redness, swelling, heat, or pain at the incision site, no fever, and normal bowel and urinary function, yo

Pubic groin issues

Hello doctor, I just had minimally invasive surgery for a hernia a week ago.
Before the surgery, I experienced soreness in my right calf and pain in the pubic area with pressure.
After the surgery, I still feel a bit of pain when pressing on the right side near the pubic area and some internal sensations that I can't quite describe.
I also feel a hard sensation near the incision in my abdomen.
Is this normal, or could there be an issue with my urinary tract or bladder? I also feel a hard sensation near the belly button incision.
Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond.

Xin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/18

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Minimally invasive surgery may affect the abdomen, so there may be some abdominal symptoms, and the incision may be slightly swollen and feel firm.
If there is no redness, swelling, heat, or pain at the incision site, no fever, and normal bowel and urinary function, you can discuss it during your follow-up appointment.
However, if you experience any of the above symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2018/11/18

More Info

Understanding groin pain after minimally invasive hernia surgery is a common concern among patients. After such procedures, it is not unusual for patients to experience discomfort or pain in the groin area, especially if they had pre-existing conditions or symptoms before the surgery.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopic hernia repair, involves the introduction of instruments through small incisions, which can lead to tissue manipulation and irritation. This manipulation can cause temporary inflammation and discomfort in the surrounding areas, including the groin. The pain you are experiencing near the pubic area and the sensation of hardness around the incision sites can be attributed to several factors:
1. Postoperative Inflammation: After surgery, the body initiates a healing response, which includes inflammation. This can lead to swelling and a feeling of tightness or hardness around the surgical site. This is a normal part of the healing process, and it usually subsides as the body heals.

2. Nerve Irritation: During surgery, nerves in the area may be stretched or irritated. This can lead to sensations of pain, tingling, or discomfort that may feel different from the pain experienced before the surgery. If you had pre-existing pain in the groin or leg, the surgery might have exacerbated this discomfort temporarily.

3. Muscle Strain: The surgical procedure can also affect the muscles in the abdominal and groin regions. If you have been less active during your recovery, muscle stiffness or strain can contribute to discomfort.
4. Hematoma or Seroma Formation: Occasionally, fluid can accumulate in the surgical area, leading to a seroma or hematoma. This can create a feeling of hardness and may cause discomfort. If the area becomes increasingly painful, swollen, or shows signs of infection (such as redness or warmth), it is essential to seek medical attention.

5. Mesh Complications: If a mesh was used during the hernia repair, there could be complications related to the mesh itself, such as migration or irritation of surrounding tissues. However, this is less common and typically presents with more severe symptoms.

In your case, since you are one week post-surgery, it is still within the normal range for some discomfort to persist. However, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms. If the pain worsens, if you experience fever, or if you notice any unusual changes in the surgical site, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Additionally, if you have concerns about urinary symptoms or if you suspect any issues with the bladder or urinary tract, it is advisable to discuss these with your doctor. They may recommend further evaluation to rule out any complications.

In summary, while some discomfort and sensations of hardness in the groin area after minimally invasive hernia surgery can be normal, it is essential to remain vigilant about your symptoms. Always feel free to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and reassurance regarding your recovery process. They can provide the best guidance based on your specific situation and medical history.

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