About Hiatal Hernia
Key Highlights
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Minimally invasive laparoscopic approach is commonly used, leading to smaller scars and less pain.Effectively treats chronic acid reflux (GERD) and heartburn symptoms.Corrects the anatomical defect, preventing complications like strangulation of the stomach.Can significantly improve quality of life by alleviating chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and regurgitation.Often performed as a same-day or short-stay procedure with a high success rate.
Who is this surgery for?
- Large hiatal hernia (Type II, III, or IV) causing significant symptoms.
- Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) not controlled by maximum medical therapy (PPIs).
- Presence of complications like esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, or strictures.
- Incarcerated or strangulated hiatal hernia (a surgical emergency).
- Persistent symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), or anemia from bleeding.
- Paraesophageal hernia (where the stomach is alongside the esophagus), which carries a risk of volvulus or obstruction.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough pre-operative evaluation, including blood tests, ECG, and possibly an endoscopy or imaging.
- Discuss all current medications with your surgeon; you may need to stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) several days prior.
- Follow fasting instructions, typically no food or drink after midnight before the surgery.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you during the initial recovery period.
- Quit smoking and avoid alcohol to promote better healing and reduce risks.
- Inform the surgical team of any allergies or recent illnesses.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: Reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, or infection at the incision sites.
- Injury to surrounding organs like the esophagus, stomach, spleen, or vagus nerve.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or gas-bloat syndrome post-operatively.
- Recurrence of the hernia or persistent/recurrent GERD symptoms.
- Rare complications: Blood clots (DVT/PE), pneumonia, or leakage from the surgical repair site.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay is typically 1-2 days for laparoscopic surgery; open surgery may require longer.
- Initial diet will be liquid, progressing to soft foods (mashed potatoes, yogurt) over 2-4 weeks.
- Avoid heavy lifting (more than 10-15 lbs), strenuous activity, and driving for 2-3 weeks.
- Manage pain with prescribed medications and use a pillow for support when coughing or moving.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and adjust diet as needed.
- Full recovery to normal activities usually takes 3-6 weeks, but complete internal healing can take several months.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-3 days
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Expected recovery time: 3-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering hiatal hernia in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for hiatal hernia in India include Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform hiatal hernia. MediFyr helps you compare general surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for hiatal hernia compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Hiatal Hernia in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated general surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing hiatal hernia.
I was a total wreck before...
I was a total wreck before my appointment. First time seeing a doctor on my own and I was convinced it was something serious. Dr. Ram just listened, didn't rush me, and explained everything in a way that actually calmed me down. The hospital is huge and a bit overwhelming, but he made it feel okay. Left feeling like I could breathe again.
General surgeons for Hiatal Hernia
Explore experienced general surgeons who regularly perform hiatal hernia and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 39 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Millers Road
- 31 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Millers Road
- 14 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 12 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 9 Years Experience
- General surgeon
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 23 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 21 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Millers Road
- 14 Years Experience
- General surgeon
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- General surgeon
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- General surgeon
KMC Hospital Mangalore
- 16 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Millers Road
- 5 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Millers Road
- 5 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Millers Road
- 20 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 23 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road
- 21 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road
- 15 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road
- 27 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur
- 30 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria