Hernias that develop as a result of work are often fixed through insurance held by your employer, in NSW known as icare, previously known as workcover. This allows you to have your hernia fixed quickly through the private hospital system rather than through the public system where longer waiting list times are foten experienced
Can I have my hernia fixed through workcover?
Dr Hamer is happy to fix your hernia through the workers compensation, but this requires approval from icare first. Any injury at work should be reported to your employer in the first instance.
What do I have to do to get my hernia fixed through workers compensation?
In general, if you sustain an injury at work you should notify your employer immediately. Often if you have developed a hernia at work you will be asked to see your GP, who will then arrange either a referral directly to Dr Hamer, or a scan and then a referral to Dr Hamer. Following your assessment with Dr Hamer if he recommends a hernia repair then icare will need to approve this prior to surgery. You can often have your surgery approved and done in 2-3 weeks from seeing Dr Hamer
How long do I have to be off work after having my hernia repaired?
Time off work varies depending on what sort of hernia you have, and the technique taken to repair it.
For example, if your groin hernia (inguinal or femoral) is repaired with the keyhole or laparoscopic method, you can often return to full duties at work 2 weeks later.
If you have a larger hernia, particularly one in the middle of the abdominal wall, or a hernia that has developed after previous surgery, a period of 6-12 weeks of no heavy lifting may be recommended. You can usually return to work before this, but on restricted/light duties.
Laparoscopic groin hernia repair
Key hole surgery to fix a groin or inguinal hernia is a simple and safe operation. It is done under a general anaesthetic and most patients can go home the afternoon of their operation, or the following morning. 3 small incisions are made, one by your belly button and two smaller ones below this. After the hernia and its contents are brought back into your belly, a piece of reinforcing mesh is slid into the space below the fascia, covering the hole, to prevent the hernia from bulging through again. This method is used to fix both inguinal and femoral hernias.
Follow Up
You will be seen 4-6 weeks after your operation.