Our Summary

Inguinal hernias, or hernias in the groin area, are a common issue that general surgeons deal with. There are many ongoing debates regarding how to best treat these hernias, such as when to perform surgery, whether to use a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) or open approach, the use of robotic surgery, how to handle hernias on both sides of the groin, how to manage groin pain related to sports, and the role of using body tissue in hernia surgery. The best approach may vary from patient to patient, based on their specific circumstances and preferences. It’s very important that doctors clearly discuss the potential risks and benefits with patients before surgery, especially as there’s a growing awareness of the risk of long-term chronic pain after hernia repair.

FAQs

  1. When is the right time to operate an inguinal hernia?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of laparoscopic versus open approach in hernia repair?
  3. What is the role of robotic surgery in hernia repair?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hernia repair is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a period of time to allow proper healing. It is important to listen to your body and report any unusual symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hernia repair include those who are symptomatic, have larger hernias, have hernias that are at risk for incarceration or strangulation, have recurrent hernias, have hernias that are causing complications such as obstructive symptoms or chronic pain, or have hernias that are affecting their quality of life. Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions may also be recommended for hernia repair to prevent potential complications. Ultimately, the decision to undergo hernia repair should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the patient’s individual factors and preferences.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and a visible bulge in the affected area
  • Consultation with a surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative testing and preparation, including imaging studies and blood work
  • Informed consent process to discuss risks and benefits of surgery

After hernia repair:

  • Recovery period, which may involve pain medication, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon
  • Gradual return to normal activities, including work and exercise
  • Monitoring for potential complications, such as infection or recurrence of the hernia
  • Long-term follow-up to assess for chronic pain or other issues related to the surgery

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of hernia do I have and what are my treatment options?
  2. What are the risks and benefits of surgery for my hernia?
  3. Is a laparoscopic or open approach better for my specific hernia?
  4. What are the potential complications of hernia repair surgery?
  5. How long is the recovery process and when can I return to normal activities?
  6. Will I need mesh for my hernia repair and what are the risks associated with mesh?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or non-surgical options for my hernia?
  8. How often do hernias recur after surgery and what can be done to prevent recurrence?
  9. How experienced are you in performing hernia repair surgeries?
  10. Can you provide me with information on post-operative pain management and potential long-term complications, such as chronic pain?

Reference

Authors: Patel VH, Wright AS. Journal: Surg Clin North Am. 2021 Dec;101(6):1067-1079. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2021.06.005. PMID: 34774269