Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
Inguinal hernia repair is among the most frequently performed surgeries. Inguinal hernias are located at the inguinal canal at the groin. Their occurrence is usually a result of a congenital or acquired weakness of the floor of the inguinal canal. The main symptom is the presence of a “lump” at either groin which can be continuous or intermittent particularly with cough or constipation. Inguinal hernia repair can be performed open or laparoscopically with comparable results.
Laparoscopic repair is performed with 3-4 small incisions and open repair with a single 4-6 cm incision at the affected groin. Inguinal hernia repair does not usually require hospitalization unless the patient has serious co-morbid conditions. Postoperative pain is of moderate or severe degree and may last 1-2 weeks. A period of 4-6 weeks is usually required for full recovery during which weight lifting > 5 kg should be avoided in order to reduce the risk of hernia recurrence. Complications include chronic pain or numbness and hernia recurrence. For more information please contact our office.