Hernia repairs are one of the most commonly performed general surgery procedures. At Advanced Surgical Associates, we perform hernia surgery using safe and effective laparoscopic surgical techniques. Hernia surgery requires specialized knowledge and experience to ensure each patient receives the very best outcomes while minimizing potential risks.
While hernia surgery has become routine, the choice to undergo surgery must be evaluated for its risks and benefits based on individual circumstances. Part of this decision will rest on the severity of the hernia and the surgical risk of the patient.
Types of Hernias
A surgical hernia repair can be performed either in a minimally invasive or open manner. Which procedure is used depends on the case at hand including the patient’s particular health circumstance. In most cases, the patient will have a choice between open and minimally invasive surgery. However, if a hernia becomes strangulated, it will require an emergency operation and the decision will largely rest on the surgeon. A hernia can take several forms in various locations and for differing reasons. The most common forms of hernia are:
- Inguinal hernias -- inguinal hernias occur when part of the intestine bulges through a weak spot in the abdominal wall at the inguinal canal.
- Femoral hernias -- a femoral hernia occurs when a portion of tissue pushes through the wall of the femoral canal
- Incisional hernias -- incisional hernias develop after abdominal surgery
- Umbilical hernias -- umbilical hernias happen when organ tissue bulges through an opening in muscles on the abdomen, near the belly button
There are other forms of hernias as well, some of which are more common than others. Seeing a qualified medical professional at the first signs of a hernia is the best course of action to diagnose and treat it quickly.
Treatment & Surgery
The only way to repair a hernia is through surgical means. There are a few surgical treatment options available to patients suffering from hernias including open and laparoscopic repair.
However, not all hernias cause pain, but patients may feel a lump in their groin. Typically, the protrusion can be pushed back into the abdomen using light pressure. This is a clear indication of a hernia.