What is Inguinal Hernia Repair Surgery?

Inguinal hernia repair surgery is the procedure to push the bulging organ back inside and repair the perforated abdominal wall in the groin. Surgery is the only solution for an inguinal hernia as it doesn’t resolve on its own. Usually, watchful waiting is recommended for patients in the earlier stage. Elective surgery is usually offered to the patients considering the impact an inguinal hernia is having on the patient’s regular life and its severity. Emergency surgery is performed for patients who develop life-threatening complications, such as incarceration or strangulation.

Risks & Complications

Similar to other surgical procedures, the following complications can arise during inguinal hernia surgery:

• Reaction to anesthesia
• Injury to the internal organs
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection

In addition, even after inguinal hernia surgery is complete, for a month or so until the recovery is complete, there are chances of post-surgery complications, such as-

• Mesh Infection
• Severe pain in the wound or stitches
• Seroma or fluid accumulation
• Hematoma or blood accumulation
• Wound infection
• Urinary retention
• Recurrence

To make sure that these complications don’t arise, the doctor gives a detailed recovery plan with clear instructions on the dos and don’ts after inguinal hernia repair surgery.

What happens if an inguinal hernia is left untreated?

When left untreated for a long time, an inguinal hernia can lead to the following complications-

Excessive Pressure- The protruding tissues of the hernia will put excess pressure on the groin, which can be very painful. In males, an inguinal hernia can be more problematic as it puts pressure on the scrotum.

Incarceration– Another complication that can arise when the hernia is not treated for a long time is incarceration. The contents of the hernia may become trapped in the abdominal cavity, and it may cause bowel obstruction. Due to this, you won’t be able to pass stools, and the hernia will hurt immensely.

Strangulation– In case the blood supply to the herniated tissue is blocked, it will cause strangulation. As a result, the tissues will start to die off and put your life at risk. In case any of these complications arise, you will need emergency surgical treatment.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Surgery

The laparoscopic hernia repair technique is preferred by patients and doctors because it has the following benefits-

Incisions are smaller than open surgery and provide a better cosmetic result. The post-operative pain, swelling, and discomfort are reduced due to the minimally invasive nature of the surgery.

ecovery is faster, and there are almost negligible chances of post-surgery complications. Chances of bleeding and infection during and after the surgery are also minimal. The patient can return to their regular routine faster as the tiny incisions heal quickly. Almost negligible chances of recurrence of hernia and occurrence of an incisional hernia.