Hernia Repair: Know The Facts

Laparoscopic hernia repair is carried out just like any other laparoscopic procedure. General anesthesia is given first, after which a small incision is made just below or at the navel. The abdomen is then inflated with air to facilitate the surgeon to be able to see all the abdominal organs clearly.

A laparoscope, which is nothing but a thin, lighted scope is gently inserted through the incision. A few more small incisions are made in the lower abdomen to allow the insertion of instruments that are needed to repair the hernia. A mesh is then positioned over the defect in order to reinforce the belly wall.

Once you decide to go in for hernia repair, it is crucial that you understand your condition and options. At Desert West Surgery, our surgeons will discuss with you if you should undergo inguinal hernia repair surgery and whether your hernia is either strangulated or incarcerated. Also, be sure to check if there are any other underlying health conditions that have to be addressed before deciding to sign up for this surgery.

Laparoscopic hernia repair is different from open surgery in the following ways:

1. A traditional open surgery for hernia repair requires a single large cut, whereas a laparoscopic surgery to repair the hernia will require a few small incisions.
2. If you have bilateral hernias, they can be operated on at the same time without having to make another large incision. Laparoscopic repair allows the doctor or surgeon to examine the groin area and a mesh is placed on the areas that are susceptible to developing a hernia.
3. General anesthesia is administered during laparoscopic repair. On the other hand open hernia surgeries can be carried out under spinal, local, or even general anesthesia.

Surgical repair is generally prescribed for inguinal hernias that may be causing excruciating pain. It is also performed to treat hernias that are either incarcerated or strangulated.

Laparoscopic surgery repair may not be suitable for people who:

• Develop strong side effects to general anesthesia.
• Have bleeding disorders like idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura or hemophilia
• Are prescribed a blood thinner
• Have had many prior abdominal surgeries
• Suffer from severe lung diseases such as emphysema
• Are pregnant
• Are obese

This procedure is usually not performed on children. But, in some cases a laparoscope may be used during traditional open hernia repairs in younger children to scour the opposite groin for a possible hernia. If a hernia is found, the doctor will perform a repair on both sides during the same operation.