Hidden Epidemic: Hernias and the Robotic Fix | Dr. Alex Lois

2025-09-12

SummaryIn this episode, Anthony shares his personal journey from a post-appendectomy hernia scare to a full recovery—and invites the surgeon who repaired it to break it all down. Dr. Alex Lois explains what hernias are, why they happen, when to see a doctor, and the real risks of waiting. You’ll hear how pre-surgery optimization (weight loss, quitting smoking, managing diabetes) boosts outcomes, why minimally invasive robotic techniques can speed recovery, and what to do after surgery to prevent recurrence. It’s a practical, no-nonsense guide...

Summary
In this episode, Anthony shares his personal journey from a post-appendectomy hernia scare to a full recovery—and invites the surgeon who repaired it to break it all down. Dr. Alex Lois explains what hernias are, why they happen, when to see a doctor, and the real risks of waiting. You’ll hear how pre-surgery optimization (weight loss, quitting smoking, managing diabetes) boosts outcomes, why minimally invasive robotic techniques can speed recovery, and what to do after surgery to prevent recurrence. It’s a practical, no-nonsense guide for anyone dealing with abdominal wall hernias—plus a peek at how AI and robotics are shaping the future of surgery.

Content Advisory: This episode includes brief surgical imagery (robotic hernia repair) that some viewers may find graphic. Viewer discretion advised.

Special Guest
Dr. Alex Lois, MD, MS is a minimally invasive gastrointestinal and complex hernia surgeon at the University of Chicago Medicine. His work spans abdominal wall reconstruction, foregut surgery, and robotic techniques that help patients recover faster with smaller incisions. He also researches patient outcomes and surgical ethics.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Hernia Experience and Dr. Lois
00:04 - Anthony's Personal Hernia Story and Initial Concerns
01:00 - Dr. Lois Explains Hernias and Their Impact
02:28 - When to Seek Medical Attention for Hernias
04:13 - Risks of Delaying Hernia Treatment
06:01 - Complications and Reasons for Hernia Surgery
08:09 - Causes of Hernias
10:33 - Discussion of Medications and Hernia Risk
12:46 - Importance of Hernia Surgery Specialization
16:15 - Surgical Approach and Robotic Surgery
19:45 - Patient Preparation for Surgery
22:24 - Robotic Surgery and Post-Operative Care
24:36 - Future of AI in Surgery
28:30 - Preventing Future Hernias
30:32 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

DR. LOIS’S INFO
Website/Profile: University of Chicago Medicine – Find a Physician (search “Alex Lois”) www.uchicagomedicine.org/find-a-physician
UChicago Medicine: https://surgery.uchicago.edu/faculty/alex-lois
Faculty Bio: Department of Surgery – University of Chicago
surgery.uchicago.edu
X (Twitter): @AlexLoisMD
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alex-lois-md-ms-28576a286/

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