Laparoscopic hernia repair is a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery. The surgery involves three to four small incisions to insert the laparoscope (a small tube with an attached camera at the tip) and tools that are necessary to manipulate your tissues. Your doctor will place mesh as a patch over the hernia to reinforce the weakened portion of your abdominal wall. Although your incision will not be as large as it would be if you had open surgery, you still need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding bathing.
Instructions
1. Take sponge baths for the first 48 hours after your surgery. Your incisions will be covered with dressings that should not be removed for 24 hours (at a minimum). After 48 hours, your wounds are considered sealed.
2. Shower as normal on the second day after your operation. Soaking in a bathtub, swimming pool or hot tub is not recommended for a week after your operation since soaking or exposing your incisions to water pressure can increase the likelihood of developing a wound infection.
3. Gently wash the skin around your wounds. Keeping the area clean helps minimize your risk of infection.
4. Evaluate your wounds while you are in the shower and gently wash around them. If you notice redness, increased pain or a throbbing sensation, contact your doctor as these may be signs of infection.
