Hernia repairs (inguinal hernias, incisional hernias, umbilical hernias)

A hernia forms when a weakened abdominal muscle tears open and the organs inside push through. Hernia repair, which is medically known as herniorrhaphy, typically involves the removal of a hernia and the implantation of a sterile surgical mesh to strengthen the weakened area of the abdominal wall. More than a half million hernia repairs are performed every year in the United States. Hernias that erupt in the groin are called inguinal hernias, while hernias that erupt in the navel are called umbilical hernias. Hernias that erupt at the incision site of a previous surgery are known as incisional hernias.

Types of Hernia Repair

Two surgical techniques used in hernia repair are open herniorrhaphy and laparoscopic herniorrhaphy. Open herniorrhaphy is performed if the hernia cannot be removed with laparoscopy. To perform open herniorrhaphy, the doctor makes a long incision over the hernia and removes the protruding sac. Subsequently, the torn muscle is sewn closed. Sterile surgical mesh may be implanted to strengthen the abdominal wall. Open herniorrphaphy typically takes one to two hours to perform.

During laparoscopic herniorrhaphy, the doctor will make three to four small incisions and then insert tube-like instruments through the incisions. The abdomen will be filled and expanded with gas to make it easier for the surgeon to view the abdominal cavity. The surgeon will use a tiny lighted scope and remote-controlled surgical instruments to make the repair inside the abdomen. Similarly to an open herniorrphaphy, the procedure lasts around one to two hours.

After Surgery

After the surgery is complete, you will be wheeled off to a post-operative unit, where a nurse will monitor your recovery. You will be prescribed medication to control pain, antibiotics to prevent bacterial infection, and anti-nausea medication to control vomiting. The bandages on the incision sites must be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. If there is a drain in place, you will be instructed on how to care for it upon your discharge.