Laparoscopic hernia surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that treats hernias, which occur when a piece of intestine or other organ, usually in the abdomen, pushes through surrounding muscle.
What is laparoscopic hernia repair surgery?
Hernia repair surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures. It is typically carried out by a general surgeon. Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery involves a smaller incision than open hernia surgery, and is recommended for some patients.
Types of hernia repair surgery
There are two methods of hernia surgery, open and laparoscopic. While the incision in the laparoscopic method is smaller, in most cases the open method is our surgeons’ preferred technique due to its greater accuracy with fewer complications.
Open hernia repair surgery
Open hernia surgery involves a larger incision (around 10cm) in the abdomen that gives the surgeon full access to the hernia, as well as greater visibility for better accuracy.
Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery
Laparoscopic hernia surgery involves the surgeon making a smaller incision, through which small instruments, including a laparoscope (tiny camera), are inserted to allow the surgeon to view the hernia and perform the procedure. Before inserting the instruments, the abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide to separate the abdominal organs so the surgeon can more clearly see the organs and surrounding area.
What does laparoscopic hernia repair surgery treat?
Hernias occur when organs or tissue slip through an abnormal opening in the body. They most commonly occur when a piece of intestine slips through a weakness in the abdominal wall, but can also develop around the naval, in the groin, or another part of the body that has had a surgical incision. Hernias can cause pain and discomfort, especially in the groin area.
Some hernias in particular may be suitable for laparoscopic hernia repair, including large ventral hernias, bilateral inguinal hernias, and recurrent hernias. For athletes or people who want to get back to playing a sport sooner, laparoscopic hernia surgery can lead to a faster recovery due to the smaller incision.
Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery results
Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery eliminates hernia pain and discomfort in most patients and helps prevent future hernias in the same area. This type of minimally invasive hernia surgery can also allow for a shorter recovery period.
Preparing for laparoscopic hernia repair surgery
Patients may need to follow specific advice around what to eat and drink before open hernia surgery.
What to expect with laparoscopic hernia repair surgery
Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery typically requires local anesthesia. This means the patient is awake for the duration of the procedure.
The surgeon first makes a small incision in or just below the belly button. The abdomen is then inflated with carbon dioxide to separate the abdominal organs so the surgeon can more clearly see the organs and surrounding area. A mesh patch is affixed behind the abdominal muscle wall. The surgeon inserts a laparoscope (tiny camera) through the incision to view the hernia.
Recovery after laparoscopic hernia repair surgery
After surgery, the patient is taken to a recovery room to be monitored in case there are any complications. Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery is typically an outpatient procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay. It is recommended that the patient has someone on-hand to drive them home.
Get laparoscopic hernia repair surgery with Centric Health
Many men and women from across Canada and all over the world choose Centric Health Surgical Centres for hernia surgery. Our surgeons have years of experience and excellence in performance and outcome with this procedure. They are committed to helping relieve any pain and discomfort, and reducing the risk of another hernia occurring. We strive to provide exceptional pre- and post-operative care. Combined with our patient-centred philosophy, we aim to provide all our patients with a compassionate, caring, and rewarding experience.
Next steps: Book your laparoscopic hernia surgery consultation
If you are ready to discuss your hernia surgery needs with our surgeons, contact us to learn more and request a consultation today. To discover your health options your patient care coordinator will discuss:
- Your medical history
- Incision techniques
- Potential risks and complications