Hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed to fix a hernia, which occurs when an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot or tear in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias commonly occur in the abdominal wall but can also develop in other areas such as the groin, upper thigh, or belly button.

The most common type of hernia repair surgery is called herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty. This procedure can be performed using either open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. During open hernia repair, the surgeon makes an incision near the hernia site, pushes the protruding tissue back into place, and then reinforces the weakened area with stitches or synthetic mesh. In laparoscopic hernia repair, small incisions are made through which a thin, lighted tube with a camera (laparoscope) and specialized instruments are inserted to repair the hernia. The surgeon uses the camera to guide the repair while viewing a video monitor.

Hernia repair surgery aims to alleviate symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and the risk of complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation, which can occur if the hernia is left untreated. Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors but is typically faster with laparoscopic techniques due to smaller incisions and less tissue trauma.

Types of Hernias

• Inguinal Hernia: Occurs in the groin area; the most common type.
• Femoral Hernia: Appears just below the inguinal ligament, more common in women.
• Umbilical Hernia: Occurs near the navel.
• Hiatal Hernia: Occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
• Incisional Hernia: Develops at the site of a previous surgical incision.

Procedure Steps

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically used.
• Incisions: Small incisions are made, usually around the navel.
• Insertion of Trocar: A trocar (a tube through which surgical instruments are passed) is inserted through one of the incisions.
• Insufflation: The abdominal cavity is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create space.
• Laparoscope and Instruments: The laparoscope and other surgical instruments are inserted.
• Reduction of Hernia: The protruding tissue is pushed back into the correct position.

Advantages of Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

• Less Postoperative Pain: Smaller incisions result in less pain after surgery.
• Faster Recovery: Patients often recover more quickly and return to normal activities sooner.
• Reduced Scarring: The small incisions leave smaller, less noticeable scars.
• Lower Risk of Infection: Minimally invasive procedures tend to have a lower risk of infection.
• Less Blood Loss: The technique usually involves less intraoperative bleeding.