Hernia

Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. The resulting bulge can be painful, especially when you cough, bend over, or lift a heavy object. However, many hernias do not cause pain. 

An inguinal hernia isn't always an urgent finding. It doesn't improve on its own, however, and can lead to life-threatening complications.  

Treatment

Treatment options include watchful waiting. Watchful waiting occurs when hernias do not cause pain and are small. Wearing a supportive belt can help relieve discomfort. The doctor may also attempt to reduce the hernia by applying manual pressure. 

Surgery is typically required for hernias that are enlarging and causing pain. There are two types of hernia surgery, open and laparoscopic. An open hernia repair is done under sedation or general anesthesia, along with local anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the groin and push back the protruding tissue into the abdomen. The weakened area is then sewn, often reinforcing it with a plastic mesh (hernioplasty). The incision is then closed with stitches, the skin is closed with skin glue or staples. A laparoscopic approach is done using general anesthesia. The surgeon will make several small punctures in the abdomen, then the surgeon will use laparoscopic or robotic instruments to repair the hernia. Gas is used to inflate your abdomen to make the internal organs easier to see. A small tube equipped with a tiny camera (laparoscope) is inserted into one incision. Guided by the camera, the surgeon inserts tiny instruments through other small incisions to repair the hernia using plastic mesh.