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

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/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast