Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Laparoscopic hernia repair is similar to other laparoscopic procedures. General anesthesia is given, and a small cut (incision) is made in or just below the navel. The belly is inflated with air so that the surgeon can see the organs in the belly. A thin, lighted scope called a laparoscope is inserted through the incision. The tools to repair the hernia are inserted through other small incisions in the lower belly. Mesh may be placed over the defect to reinforce the belly wall. Or the edges of healthy tissue may be sewn together. There are many things to think about when deciding if you should have inguinal hernia repair surgery. For example, is your hernia is incarcerated or strangulated? And do you have other conditions that need to be addressed before hernia repair surgery is needed? Most people who have laparoscopic hernia repair surgery are able to go home the same day. Recovery time is about 1 to 2 weeks. You most likely can return to light activity after 1 to 2 weeks. Strenuous exercise should wait until after 4 weeks of recovery. Studies have found that people have less pain after laparoscopic hernia repair than after open hernia surgery. Surgical repair is recommended for inguinal hernias that are causing pain or other symptoms. It's also recommended for hernias that are incarcerated or strangulated. Surgery is always recommended for inguinal hernias in children. Laparoscopic surgery repair may not be right for people who: Laparoscopic hernia repair usually is not done on children. But a laparoscope may be used during open hernia repairs in children to explore the opposite groin for a hernia. This can be done by inserting the scope into the side that is being operated on and looking at the opposite side. If a hernia is seen, the surgeon can repair both sides during the same operation. Laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia repair is safe. The chance of a hernia coming back is low when the repair is done by an experienced surgeon who uses mesh patches. Synthetic patches are now widely used for hernia repair in both open and laparoscopic surgery. The chance that a hernia needs more than one repair also depends on your age and overall health. Laparoscopic surgery has the following advantages over open hernia repair: Some people may need special preparation before surgery to decrease the risk of complications. These are people who: Risks of laparoscopic hernia repair include: Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
Surgery Overview
What To Expect
Why It Is Done
Learn more
How Well It Works
Risks
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardLaparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.