Inguinal Hernia Repair

What Is Inguinal Hernia Repair?

Surgery to fix a weakness or tear in the abdominal wall in the groin area. The procedure involves returning the bulging tissue to the abdomen and strengthening the weakened muscle layer, typically using synthetic mesh reinforcement.

Two main surgical approaches:

• Open Repair (Lichtenstein): A single 2-3 inch groin incision where the surgeon places mesh over the defect and secures it with sutures or tacks.
• Minimally Invasive (Laparoscopic/Robotic): Multiple small abdominal incisions allow mesh placement from inside the abdominal wall, offering reduced pain and faster recovery but requiring general anesthesia.

Why It's Done

Hernias do not self-heal. The procedure prevents serious complications including:

• Incarceration: Tissue becomes stuck
• Strangulation: Blood supply is cut off

Patients typically elect repair when experiencing pain, enlargement, or activity limitations. Studies indicate about 70% eventually need surgery despite watchful waiting approaches.

Risks & Complications

• Recurrence: 1-3% with modern mesh repairs
• Fluid/blood collection: 1-8%
• Wound infection: Less than 1-2%
• Urinary retention: 1-5%
• Nerve irritation/numbness: 5-10% initially
• Chronic pain: 10-30% overall; 1-12% moderate-to-severe
• Mortality: Less than 0.1% in elective cases

Recovery Timeline

• Hospital stay: Same-day discharge typical
• Light activities: 1-2 days
• Return to work: 5-7 days
• Heavy lifting restrictions: 2-4 weeks
• Full activity: 4 weeks

Surgeon Specialists

General surgeons perform these repairs, with some specializing in minimally invasive or hernia-specific techniques. High-volume surgeons show superior outcomes in recurrence and pain management.