Hernia Repair
Types of Hernias
- An incisional hernia occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision.
- An umbilical hernia occurs at the navel.
- An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin. This is the most common type.
Before Surgery
Your surgeon may be able to feel the hernia directly or you may require a radiology test to confirm. We usually perform a CT scan to see the extent and nature of a hernia that is hard to feel. Some patients have a hernia for years, or even decades without knowing it.
Hernia Surgery
There are two main techniques with hernia surgery. Your surgeon will discuss which is best for you.
- Open surgery: This may be necessary if you have had previous surgery or excessive scar tissue or if the hernia is very large (>10 cm).
- Laparoscopic surgery: This is the most common way to perform surgery. It limits the pain after surgery, frequently allows patients to go home the same day and helps reduce complications after surgery.