Dr Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Registered with Gujarat Medical Council, Reg. No. G-38738
Hernia Surgeon · Apollo Hospital, Bhat, Gandhinagar · Gota OPD, Ahmedabad
In short
- A little. The team moves and pads you with extra care to protect thin bones, and plans your recovery to lower the chance of falls.
- A bent upper back from weak spine bones pushes the belly forward and raises pressure inside it. This can make hernias more likely.
- Most bone medicines are simply carried on. The weekly bone tablet needs you to sit upright afterwards, so the first dose may be moved.
Osteoporosis means the bones have become thin and break more easily. It is common, especially in women after the menopause and in older men.
Osteoporosis does not stop a hernia repair. It changes how you are moved, and how your recovery is planned.
How the two are linked
Weak spine bones can slowly squash down. The upper back then bends forward. This pushes the belly out and raises the pressure inside it.
Over time, this pressure can help a hernia form in the groin or at the belly button. A bent back is also linked with hiatal hernia, where the stomach slides up into the chest.
Long-term steroid tablets weaken bones and slow healing. Tell the team if you take them.
Before the operation
Bring your bone scan report and a list of your medicines. Tell the team about any past broken bones, especially in the spine or hip.
If you have a bent back, lying flat may be hard. The team props you up with pillows. Breathing can also be shallower, so deep breathing exercises help.
On the day
Theatre staff move you slowly and support your back and hips. Bony points are padded.
Open or keyhole repair can both be used. The choice depends on the type of hernia and your general health, not on the bones alone.
Your bone medicines
Calcium and vitamin D tablets can usually carry on. A six-monthly bone injection does not normally need any change.
The weekly bone tablet must be taken with water while you stay upright for a while. If your dose falls on the day of surgery, the team may move it by a day or two.
Never stop a bone medicine for good without asking your doctor.
Planning a hernia repair with osteoporosis
| Point to plan | Why it matters | What usually helps |
|---|---|---|
| Thin bones | A fall or rough lift can break a bone | Careful lifting and padding |
| Bent upper back | Lying flat is hard, breathing is shallower | Pillows and a raised head |
| Weekly bone tablet | You must sit upright after it | First dose may be moved by a day or two |
| Calcium and painkillers | Both can cause constipation | Fluids, fibre and a softener |
| Falls at home | Drowsy at night after surgery | Night light, clear floor, walking aid |
Have osteoporosis and a hernia? Bring your bone scan report and the names of your bone medicines.
Preventing falls at home
A fall is the main risk in the weeks after surgery. Painkillers can make you drowsy, and night toilet trips are common.
- Keep a light on at night.
- Clear loose rugs and wires from the floor.
- Use your walking aid if you have one.
- Stand up slowly from the bed or chair.
Calcium and painkillers can both cause constipation. Drink well and eat fibre to avoid straining. Call the team for fever, a red wound or a new lump.
Frequently asked questions
Can osteoporosis cause a hernia?
Not directly. But a bent upper back from weak spine bones raises belly pressure, which can help one form.
Should I stop my bone tablets before hernia surgery?
Usually not. The weekly tablet may be moved by a day or two if it falls on the day of surgery.
Is keyhole repair safe if I have weak bones?
Yes. The choice of open or keyhole repair depends on the hernia and your health, not on bones alone.
How do I avoid a fall after hernia surgery?
Keep a light on at night, clear the floor, use a walking aid and stand up slowly.
Related pages
The main page on this site is hernia surgery in Ahmedabad. These cover the neighbouring questions.
Where to find us
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Shah's Gastro, Cancer & Robotic Surgery Centre
Apollo Hospital, Bhat, Gandhinagar
Gota OPD, Ahmedabad
Bring your reports. Second opinions are welcome.