Baltic American Clinic performs operations on the abdominal organs and the abdominal wall using open and minimally invasive surgical methods. The clinic treats inguinal, umbilical and other abdominal wall hernias and gallstone disease, and performs operations to remove lumps of the abdominal wall and soft tissues as well as surgical treatment of obesity.
Treatment is planned individually – from the consultation with an abdominal surgeon and pre-operative assessment to the operation and post-operative care.
The surgical method is chosen according to the diagnosis, the extent of the operation and medical indications.
Inguinal and abdominal wall hernia operations are performed, using special meshes where needed.
Pre-operative preparation, surgical treatment and the necessary post-operative care.
Before the operation we discuss the treatment method, possible risks, recovery and expected costs.
When may abdominal surgery be needed?
Surgical treatment is considered when a diagnosed condition causes symptoms, carries a risk of complications or other treatments are not enough.
A consultation with an abdominal surgeon is recommended if:
- You have been diagnosed with an inguinal, umbilical or other abdominal wall hernia. The doctor assesses its size, the symptoms and whether an operation is needed.
- You have been diagnosed with gallstones. Especially if episodes of pain or other symptoms of the condition keep recurring.
- A lump has been found in the abdominal wall or soft tissues. Its nature needs to be clarified and a decision made on whether it should be removed surgically.
- Surgical treatment of obesity is being considered. A thorough assessment of your health and the choice of a suitable method are needed.
- An operation has already been recommended. You would like to discuss how it will be done, the preparation, possible alternatives and the recovery period.
Not every diagnosed condition means that an operation is needed straight away. The decision is made after assessing the diagnosis, symptoms, possible complications and your individual health.
Important. Sudden severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, marked bloating or a painful hernia that no longer goes back in may be signs of a condition that requires urgent surgical care. In such cases do not wait for a planned consultation. In life-threatening situations call 112.
Which abdominal operations are performed at Baltic American Clinic?
Inguinal and abdominal wall hernia operations
A hernia forms when the peritoneum or tissues of the abdominal cavity push through a weakened area of the abdominal wall. It may show as a visible or palpable bulge, a pulling sensation, discomfort or pain.
During the operation the hernia is repaired and the integrity of the abdominal wall is restored. Depending on the type of hernia, the abdominal wall may be reinforced with a surgical mesh.
Baltic American Clinic performs:
- Abdominal wall hernia repair. An operation to correct a defect in the abdominal wall. The extent of the operation and the need for a mesh depend on the size and location of the hernia.
- Surgical treatment of an inguinal hernia with mesh. The inguinal hernia is repaired by open surgery and the abdominal wall is reinforced with a special mesh.
- Surgical treatment of bilateral inguinal hernias with meshes. Inguinal hernias on both sides are treated in a single operation.
- Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (TAPP) with mesh. The hernia is treated through small incisions in the abdominal wall using a video camera and special surgical instruments.
- Laparoscopic repair of bilateral inguinal hernias (TAPP) with meshes. Inguinal hernias on both sides are treated laparoscopically.
- Umbilical hernia repair. The integrity of the weakened abdominal wall in the navel area is restored surgically.
What is a surgical mesh used for?
A surgical mesh is a medical implant used to reinforce the abdominal wall. It helps reduce the risk of the hernia coming back. The doctor explains why a mesh is recommended in your case, what it is for and what alternative treatments are possible.
The surgical method is chosen taking into account the location and size of the hernia, previous operations, the patient’s health and other medical factors.
Gallbladder operations
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
This is an operation to remove the gallbladder, most often performed because of gallstones that cause symptoms.
During the operation the gallbladder is removed through small incisions in the abdominal wall using a video camera and surgical instruments.
Gallstones do not always require an operation. If the stones do not cause symptoms, the doctor assesses whether surgical treatment is needed. If the pain keeps coming back or complications develop, removal of the gallbladder may be recommended.
Why is the whole gallbladder removed and not just the stones?
In operations for gallstones the whole gallbladder is usually removed, because if only the stones are removed they can form again. After the operation bile continues to flow from the liver into the digestive tract, but the body may need time to adapt to the changed flow of bile.
Removal of the appendix (appendicitis operation)
Laparoscopic appendectomy (appendicitis operation)
This is an operation to remove the appendix, performed through small incisions in the abdominal wall.
The most common reason for this operation is inflammation of the appendix (appendicitis). The treatment approach depends on the course of the disease and the patient’s condition.
If acute appendicitis is suspected, urgent medical assessment is needed. Waiting for a planned consultation is not appropriate in such cases.
Operations on lumps of the abdominal wall and soft tissues
Removal of abdominal wall tumours
Lumps in the tissues of the abdominal wall are removed surgically. Before the operation the doctor assesses the location, size and nature of the lump and whether additional tests are needed.
Removal of lipomas
Lipomas are usually benign lumps of fatty tissue. Surgical removal may be considered if the lump grows, causes discomfort, interferes with daily activities or its nature needs to be clarified.
Removal of cysts and other soft tissue lumps
Surgical treatment may be recommended for some lumps of the skin, subcutaneous tissue or connective tissue. The extent of the operation depends on the nature and location of the lump.
If needed, the removed tissue is sent for histological examination to confirm the diagnosis.
Surgical treatment of obesity (stomach reduction operations)
Baltic American Clinic performs stomach reduction and other operations for the surgical treatment of obesity.
Gastric bypass
During the operation a smaller part of the stomach is created and the route that food takes through the digestive tract is changed.
Sleeve gastrectomy
Part of the stomach is removed, reducing its volume.
Gastric plication
The volume of the stomach is reduced by folding and suturing its wall.
Gastric band
An adjustable band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to help limit the amount of food eaten at one time.
Bariatric surgery is considered only after an individual assessment of your health. Long-term nutritional and health care is important afterwards.
How is the surgical method chosen?
Abdominal operations can be performed as open or laparoscopic surgery. Not every condition and not every patient is suitable for both methods.
Open surgery
The surgeon makes an incision through which the area to be operated on is reached. This method may be recommended depending on the nature of the condition, the complexity of the operation or previous procedures.
Laparoscopic surgery
The operation is performed through several small incisions using a video camera and special instruments. In certain cases the laparoscopic method can reduce post-operative pain and allow a faster return to normal activities.
However, laparoscopy is not always the most suitable choice. Sometimes, for medical reasons, it may be necessary to switch to open surgery during the operation.
Before the operation the doctor explains why the proposed method has been chosen and its possible benefits and risks.
What tests are needed before abdominal surgery?
An individual pre-operative assessment is carried out before a planned operation. Its scope depends on the type of operation, the patient’s age, other conditions and the planned anaesthesia.
The following may be needed:
- Blood tests. A full blood count, clotting tests and other tests ordered according to indications.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG). Assessment of heart function when required by the pre-operative risk assessment.
- Abdominal ultrasound. A test that helps assess the condition of the abdominal organs and any changes found.
- Soft tissue ultrasound. May be needed to clarify hernias or superficial lumps.
- Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ordered when a more detailed assessment of anatomical changes is needed.
- Other tests and specialist consultations. Ordered depending on the diagnosis and your general health.
Not every patient needs all the tests. The doctor tells you which tests to have done and how long their results remain valid.
How do the preparation and the operation take place?
Consultation with an abdominal surgeon
The doctor assesses the diagnosis, symptoms, available test results and the need for an operation. Treatment options, the planned extent of the operation and possible risks are discussed.
Pre-operative assessment
The ordered tests are carried out, and your general health and readiness for the operation are assessed. A consultation with an anaesthetist is arranged if needed.
Preparation for the operation
You receive individual instructions about eating, drinking, medicines and arriving at the clinic. On the day of the operation the necessary medical information is checked.
Operation
The planned surgical treatment is carried out. The length of the operation and the type of anaesthesia depend on the complexity and extent of the procedure.
Post-operative care
After the operation your condition is monitored, pain is controlled and, if needed, dressings are changed and other medical procedures are carried out. Depending on the type of operation, you may go home the same day or stay in the inpatient ward.
How to prepare for abdominal surgery
Exact preparation instructions are given by the operating surgeon and the anaesthetist.
Before the operation it is important to consider:
- Medicines. Tell the doctor about all the medicines you take, especially those that affect blood clotting and those used to treat diabetes. Do not stop taking them on your own.
- Chronic illnesses and allergies. Tell us about health problems, allergies and previous reactions to anaesthesia.
- Test results. Make sure the doctor has all the necessary test results.
- Eating before the operation. Follow the individual instructions on food and fluids before anaesthesia.
- Changes in your health. If symptoms of an infection appear or you feel significantly worse before the operation, inform the clinic.
- Going home. If you are expected to leave on the day of the operation, arrange a safe journey home and someone to accompany you if the type of anaesthesia requires it.
Anaesthesia and inpatient care
The type of anaesthesia depends on the type and extent of the operation and the patient’s health.
Local anaesthesia may be used for some minor procedures. More extensive abdominal operations, including laparoscopic ones, are usually performed under general anaesthesia.
After the operation the medical staff monitor how you feel, your vital signs, the intensity of pain and the condition of the operated area.
The need for and length of inpatient care are decided individually. More extensive operations may require longer monitoring.
Recovery after abdominal surgery
The recovery period depends on the surgical method, the extent of the operation and your individual health.
After minor operations it is often possible to return to normal activities sooner. After more complex abdominal operations, recovery may take several weeks or longer.
The doctor gives individual recommendations on:
- Care of the surgical wound and dressing changes.
- Pain control and taking the prescribed medicines.
- Eating and drinking.
- Restrictions on physical activity and lifting.
- Returning to work and normal daily activities.
- Follow-up visits and further care.
When should you seek medical help after the operation?
If you develop a fever, increasing abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, marked redness of the wound, pus or other unusual symptoms, you must see a doctor. In case of sudden shortness of breath, impaired consciousness or another life-threatening condition, call 112.
When may the operation be postponed?
A planned operation may be postponed if an active infection, a poorly controlled co-existing condition, unfavourable pre-operative test results or another circumstance that increases the risk of the operation or anaesthesia is found.
For some patients, further investigation or stabilisation of their health is recommended first.
The decision on the safety of the operation and the most suitable timing is made by the doctor, taking into account the individual situation.
Frequently asked questions
Are all abdominal operations performed laparoscopically?
No. Some operations are performed as open surgery, while laparoscopy may be used for others. The most suitable method is chosen according to the diagnosis, the complexity of the operation and the patient’s health.
Is a mesh always used in inguinal hernia surgery?
Baltic American Clinic performs inguinal hernia operations with a surgical mesh. Whether this method is suitable in a particular case is decided by the surgeon after assessing the type of hernia and the patient’s health.
Can an abdominal wall hernia be cured without surgery?
In adults, an abdominal wall hernia usually does not go away on its own. In some cases the condition can be monitored, but the hernia defect is repaired surgically. The doctor assesses whether an operation is needed and when it is advisable to perform it.
Do gallstones always need an operation?
No. If gallstones do not cause symptoms, an operation is not always necessary. If the pain keeps coming back or complications develop, the doctor may recommend removal of the gallbladder.
Can I eat normally after gallbladder removal?
Most patients can eventually return to their usual balanced diet. In the first period after the operation, temporary changes to the diet may be recommended depending on how you feel.
Is a consultation with an anaesthetist required before abdominal surgery?
An anaesthetic assessment is needed when an operation under anaesthesia is planned. Its form and scope depend on the planned type of anaesthesia and the patient’s health.
Will I need to stay in the clinic after abdominal surgery?
Not always. After some minor operations you can go home the same day. After more extensive operations, or when longer monitoring is needed, the patient stays in the inpatient ward.
How long should I avoid lifting heavy objects after hernia surgery?
The length of the restrictions depends on the type of hernia, the surgical method and how recovery progresses. Specific recommendations are given by the operating surgeon.
Can a hernia come back after surgery?
Yes. Although surgical treatment is intended to repair the hernia and reduce the risk of it coming back, this risk cannot be eliminated completely. It depends on the type of hernia, the surgical method and individual factors.
Can I get a second opinion before abdominal surgery?
Yes. During the consultation you can discuss a previously made diagnosis, the recommended operation, possible alternatives and the expected recovery. We recommend bringing any test results you have.
Price of abdominal surgery
The prices of abdominal operations are set according to the current Baltic American Clinic price list.
The final price depends on the surgical method, the complexity and extent of the operation and the patient’s individual health. For hernia operations, the price may also be affected by the size of the surgical mesh used.
Anaesthesia, inpatient care, post-operative nursing, additional tests and other services, if they are not included in the price of the operation, are charged separately according to the current price list.
The specific extent of the operation, the preparation plan and the expected costs are discussed during the consultation with the abdominal surgeon before the operation.