Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

If you have a hernia you might want to consider the option of a surgery like laparoscopic hernia repair. In this operation, miniature video cameras and double- layered mesh are used in order to fix small tears in the abdominal wall. Due to the use of tiny video cameras the surgery is much less invasive, recovery time is usually faster and less painful and scars are smaller than those left after a regular “open” surgery.

How can you tell if you have a hernia in the first place? If you feel pain when you cough, urinate, during bowel movements, after sitting or standing for long periods of time or when you lift heavy objects you might have a hernia. Typically, you may see a slight bulge under your skin where the hernia is. And if pain is intense or prolonged you should contact a doctor immediately. If you suspect you might suffer from a hernia you should consult a physician in order to avoid future complications.

A hernia will not disappear on its own. They usually appear in the groin area when the inner layers of the abdominal wall force there way through the outer layers of muscle. Often, a balloon-like effect takes place with the fat or intestines that force their way partially through the muscle. The result is a tear in the abdominal wall that worsens over time. Leaving a hernia untreated can cause serious problems in the future.

In open hernia operations, a recurrence of hernia is always a possibility. Studies have shown that possibly even 20 percent of patients who have undergone open hernia operations need a second surgery.

Be careful with what surgeons will tell you regarding recurring hernia problems. Many surgeons boast of having a virtually perfect operation record but studies have shown that most patients who need a second operation never return to the same surgeon. However, one of the benefits of laparoscopic hernia repair is it uses a new technique where a mesh is placed in the interior of the abdominal wall at the defect in the muscle. This has helped to improve surgical results significantly.

What are the real benefits to laparoscopic hernia repair? In open hernia surgery, mesh is placed on the outside of the abdominal wall. However, this has proven to be less effective since pressure from the inner abdomen may push the mesh out over time. Due to the fact that mesh is placed in the interior of the abdominal wall in laparoscopic hernia repair, this net has a greater possibility of remaining in place permanently.

The biggest downside to laparoscopic hernia repair is its cost; it can be twice as expensive as the open method of surgery. However, consider all of the benefits. Aside from it be more effective, it also produces less scarring, is less painful, allows for a faster recovery time and is much less invasive than open surgery.

If you have already had hernia repair in the past or suffer from a hernia that affects both sides of the abdominal wall, you will probably need laparoscopic hernia repair since the open method is much less effective for these problems. Whatever the decision, a surgeon should be consulted at length beforehand in order to help you come to the appropriate conclusion.