Types and models of inguinal hernia bandages

A bandage for inguinal hernia is considered an important component of successful treatment of the disease. A hernia in the groin is a surgical problem that occurs due to increased pressure in the abdominal cavity: during physical overload, during pregnancy, with regular constipation, obesity, with weakness of the muscles and ligaments of the groin area. The disease can develop at any age, including appearing at birth.

The purpose of the bandage for inguinal hernia is to enable the patient to lead a normal life, while preventing hernia strangulation and other complications. When worn, the bandage serves as a kind of mechanical barrier that helps to hold the organs inside the abdominal cavity, preventing them from protruding through the hernia opening.

Indications for the use of a groin bandage

Inguinal hernias are treated surgically, but there are situations when the intervention is postponed. In such cases, the doctor may prescribe wearing a special device - a bandage, which helps prevent further growth of the disease and the occurrence of complications.

Modern bandages are very comfortable and effective, they are worn before and after surgery. But it is necessary to remember that a bandage for an inguinal hernia does not eliminate the disease, but only allows you to endure the time before surgery, maintaining the patient's condition. A bandage is not a method of treatment, but a preventive measure.

The use of a bandage belt is indicated in the following situations:

• during pregnancy. The abdomen grows gradually throughout all three trimesters. The pressure inside the abdominal cavity increases, the impact on the muscular-ligamentous apparatus increases. A special support belt will help support the muscles and prevent complications;
• during sports and heavy physical work. The bandage is mandatory for those who are involved in strength sports - these are weightlifters, bodybuilders. For example, when lifting a barbell or doing abdominal exercises, the pressure in the abdominal cavity increases sharply, and the bandage can compensate for it somewhat;
• during the rehabilitation period after surgery. Wearing a bandage in the postoperative period will reduce the load on the suture area, help to restore the muscle corset faster, and prevent the recurrence of the disease;
• if surgical intervention is not possible. In this case, a bandage belt will relieve pain and reduce the risk of pinching.

The bandage is not recommended for use:

• in case of strangulation and irreducibility of the hernial sac;
• in case of malignant degeneration of hernia;
• in case of diseases or external damage to the skin in the areas where the bandage is attached.

Types and models of bandages

As is known, groin hernia is most often found in men. For this reason, a male bandage for inguinal hernia is considered more common. However, there is also a female version, a universal one, a children's one, and a bandage for newborns. Such belts look like compression pants, with Velcro or fasteners for fastening.

Bandage belts are divided into one-sided and two-sided, depending on the type of hernia. Accordingly, one-sided ones can be designed for the right or left side. There are also universal options, where the side of placement can be adjusted.

A properly selected belt fits tightly against the skin and does not cause discomfort; it is not visible under a layer of clothing.

In addition to the fasteners and the belt itself, the main part of the bandage is considered to be a special metal plate sewn into a fabric bag - the so-called "pelot". The size of the pelot is selected according to the diameter and shape of the hernial opening - it should be slightly larger along the outer borders, by about 10 mm.

A truss for inguinal hernia for women may not differ in any way from the male version, with the exception of those models that are intended for wearing during pregnancy.

How to choose the right bandage for inguinal hernia?

It would be better if your attending physician gives recommendations on choosing a bandage. There are many varieties that differ in the degree of pressure, the type of hernial protrusion, the type of fixation and the size.

If you plan to use the belt for a long time, you should not buy cheap models - remember that the price directly affects the quality of the product. Cheap bandages wear out quickly, may not withstand washing, and are also made mainly of synthetics, which is not very desirable for the skin.

Choose options made from natural fabrics - this will save you from allergies and skin irritations. Naturalness is especially relevant in the summer heat, when special attention is paid to the hygroscopicity and lightness of clothing.

Ideally, the base of the product will be cotton. It is necessary to try on the belt when buying, because it is so easy to make a mistake in the size and buy a thing that will be uncomfortable to wear later. Never buy a bandage "for growth". If the belt does not fit tightly to the body, then it will not be able to hold the hernia protrusion. Wearing such a bandage will be ineffective.

The fitting and putting on of the bandage device should be done in a horizontal position, on the back. This is the only way to reduce the pressure in the abdominal cavity as much as possible, so that the bandage can fully perform its function. Make sure that the fastenings and the pad do not dangle, but do not squeeze the body either.

The bandage is removed in the same position as it was put on - on the back. After removal, it is recommended to lightly massage the skin to stimulate blood circulation.

Patients often ask: how to make a bandage for an inguinal hernia? The fact is that experts do not recommend making such a device yourself. The bandage performs strictly the functions assigned to it, and the slightest discrepancy with its purpose will not only not help, but can also cause great harm to the condition of the hernial sac.

The average service life of a bandage belt (with daily use) is about 12 months, after which it needs to be replaced with a new one. The wearing period can be extended if you use the product carefully, wash it mainly by hand at +30-35°C (using mild detergents), and never wring it out. Before washing, pay attention to the instructions for a specific model - the fact is that some bandages cannot be washed at all. It is recommended to place such belts in a special washable cover, which will keep the product clean.

The most common types of bandages for inguinal hernia

1. Universal bandage devices "Jolly" or "Personal" are designed like panties with two retaining pads in the front. They are fastened on the side and also equipped with Velcro straps for fastening between the legs. The versatility of such bandages is that they can be adjusted to suit you by adding or removing pads and belts. They are convenient to use for both unilateral (right or left) and bilateral hernias. The products are made of a natural base and are hypoallergenic.
2. Denver groin bandages can be produced in various versions. The most popular of them are a kind of tape with sewn-in pads (on one or the other side), the edges of which are trimmed with special protection against irritation when worn. The kit also includes Velcro straps for additional fixation.
3. The T43 series bandage is made of breathable mesh fabric. It looks like regular underwear, which makes it invisible under clothing and comfortable to wear every day.

It is recommended to wear a bandage for inguinal hernia constantly, removing it only at night. However, if discomfort, skin irritation, or allergies occur, you should stop wearing the bandage and consult your attending physician.