In short
Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term arthritis that mainly affects the spine. Over the years, the spine and neck can become stiff.
A hernia needs the same repair in you as in anyone else. What changes is the anaesthetic and the way you are placed on the table.
Back and hip pain are common with this condition. A hernia causes a different pain, in the groin or belly, often with a lump.
The lump usually grows when you cough or stand, and shrinks when you lie down.
If the lump is hard, painful and cannot be pushed back, go to the emergency department.
When the neck is stiff, the head cannot tilt back easily. This can make it harder to place the breathing tube used in a general anaesthetic.
A stiff spine can also make a spinal injection difficult. The anaesthetist may use special equipment, or choose another method.
Tell the team how far you can turn your neck and bend your back. Bring any recent spine or neck X-rays.
What ankylosing spondylitis changes in hernia surgery
| Point to plan | Why it matters | What usually happens |
|---|---|---|
| Stiff neck | The breathing tube is harder to place | Anaesthetist plans a safe airway method |
| Stiff spine | A spinal injection may be difficult | General anaesthetic is often chosen |
| Limited chest movement | Deep breathing is reduced | Breathing exercises, early sitting up |
| Biologic injections | Infection and healing risk | Dose timing agreed with rheumatologist |
| Anti-inflammatory tablets | Can irritate the stomach and kidneys | Reviewed and often paused short term |
Have ankylosing spondylitis and a hernia? Bring your rheumatologist's letter and the names of your injections and tablets.
Both can be done. For keyhole surgery, the gas inside the belly pushes on the diaphragm. If your chest already moves little, your anaesthetist will check your breathing first.
Lying flat for some time may be uncomfortable. The team pads the back and neck, and moves you slowly.
Biologic injections calm the condition, but they lower the body's defences. Your rheumatologist may advise timing the next dose around the repair.
Do not stop or delay any dose on your own. A flare can be worse than the delay is worth.
Anti-inflammatory painkillers can upset the stomach and the kidneys. The team may pause them for a short time and use other pain relief.
Do your breathing exercises and sit out of bed early. Walk as soon as you are able.
Gentle spine exercises can restart when the wound allows. Check with your surgeon and physiotherapist first.
Call the team for fever, redness or discharge at the wound.
Sometimes, but it can be hard with a stiff spine. Many people have a general anaesthetic instead.
Do not decide alone. Your rheumatologist and surgeon agree on timing for the dose around the operation.
Surgery does not cause the condition to worsen. Staying active as the wound allows helps you keep movement.
Usually yes, after the anaesthetist checks your breathing. Open repair is also an option.
The main page on this site is hernia surgery in Ahmedabad. These cover the neighbouring questions.
Swasth Parivar: every week, practical advice on recovery, diet and warning signs. No advertising. Stop any time.
Your number is used for these updates and for the clinic to reach you. It is never sold or passed on. To stop, reply STOP on WhatsApp.