Dr Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Registered with Gujarat Medical Council, Reg. No. G-38738
Hernia Surgeon · Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
In short
- Yes, with careful planning. Sickle cell disease does not rule out a hernia repair. Your blood doctor helps plan it with your surgeon.
- Cold, dehydration and low oxygen can bring on a sickle crisis. So you are kept warm, given fluids and watched closely.
- Sickle cell trait usually changes little for a hernia repair. Still tell the team, so it is known before the anaesthesia.
Sickle cell disease is a blood condition passed down in families. It is more common in some communities in Gujarat and other parts of India.
In sickle cell disease, red blood cells can change shape and block small blood vessels. This page explains how a hernia repair is planned safely when you have it.
Disease or trait
Sickle cell disease means you have two sickle genes. Sickle cell trait means you carry one gene. People with the trait are usually well and need few changes for surgery.
Tell the team if you have either, or if you are not sure. A simple blood test can tell. If a family member has sickle cell disease, mention that too.
Your blood doctor is part of the plan
For sickle cell disease, your surgeon works with your blood doctor. Blood tests check your haemoglobin and how many cells are affected. Some people are given a blood transfusion before surgery.
Most hernias are not urgent, so a planned repair is done when you are well and not in a crisis. Bring your blood reports and your blood doctor's notes.
Sickle cell disease around a hernia repair
Sickle cell disease around a hernia repair
| What is planned | Why it matters | Who is involved |
|---|---|---|
| Blood tests | Show haemoglobin and sickle levels | Blood doctor |
| Transfusion, if needed | Lowers the risk of a crisis | Blood doctor |
| Warmth and fluids | Cold and dehydration trigger crises | Theatre and ward team |
| Oxygen and breathing | Low oxygen can cause sickling | Anaesthetist |
| Pain plan | Pain needs good control | Surgeon and anaesthetist |
Have sickle cell disease or trait and a hernia? Bring your blood reports and your blood doctor's notes to the first visit.
Preventing a crisis around surgery
A sickle crisis can be brought on by cold, low fluids, low oxygen and pain. The team works to prevent all of these.
You are kept warm in theatre and on the ward. Fluids are given into a vein while you fast. Your oxygen level is watched, and breathing exercises help after surgery.
After the operation
Good pain control helps you breathe deeply, walk early and avoid a crisis. Drink well once you are allowed.
Call at once if you have chest pain, breathlessness or a fever, or if your pain is much worse than expected.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have hernia surgery with sickle cell disease?
Yes, with careful planning. Your blood doctor and surgeon plan the timing and care together.
I have sickle cell trait. Does it matter?
Usually it changes little. Still tell the team, so they know before the anaesthesia.
Why do I need to stay warm and drink well?
Cold, low fluids and low oxygen can bring on a sickle crisis. The team works to prevent all three.
Will I need a blood transfusion?
Some people do, before surgery. Your blood doctor decides this from your blood tests and past history.
What should I watch for after surgery?
Call at once for chest pain, breathlessness, fever or pain much worse than expected.
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)
Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
Bring your reports. Second opinions are welcome.