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Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Hernioplasty is the name given to surgical repair of a hernia in the abdominal wall of the groin, and is one of the most common complaints suffered by human beings. It can cause severe pain and other complications. 

These hernias are divided into two different types, direct (congenital) and indirect (acquired), but they both appear in the groin area. A hernia occurs when an organ (generally the intestine) bulges out through a weak area or rupture of the abdominal wall, creating a bulge in the abdomen that can be very painful and cause other complications. During the repair, the protruding tissue is pushed inside and the defect in the muscle wall of the groin is repaired. 

The only definitive treatment of an inguinal hernia is surgery. This surgery can be conventional or laparoscopic and always involves the insertion of a strengthening mesh to reduce the risk of recurrence and enable the patient to get back to work as quickly as possible.

LAPAROSCOPIC or minimally invasive hernia repair is becoming increasingly popular among doctors and patients because it offers numerous advantages: less pain, quick recovery and shorter hospital stays. The decision to use the laparoscopic approach is up to the surgeon.

Benefits of the operation

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair means less post operative repair, a shorter stay in hospital and quicker recovery. 

Using the laparoscopy has other advantages: 

  • Direct access to the posterior inguinal structures.
  • A clear view of all the possible hernias and a full examination of both inguinocrural areas to rule out any unsuspected collateral hernias which, if found, can be repaired at the same time.
  • Reduces scarring.
  • In case of recurrent hernias, scar tissue will be avoided.
  • It is possible to repair difficult hernias (displaced, bilateral and prevascular hernias).

Medical-technical description

Laparoscopic hernia repair is a technique conducted using a laparoscope (a small telescope) inserted through three or four incisions in the lower abdomen and the insertion of strengthening mesh made of a material compatible with human tissue (polypropylene polyester, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), etc), give extra strength to the operation site.

About the operation

The intervention is conducted under general anaesthetic, and consists of inserting a laparoscope connected to a special camera through a tube or cannula, that allows the surgeon to see the hernia and surrounding tissue in both inguinocrural areas on a video screen. After this, other small incisions are made and other tubes are inserted to repair the damaged area. Surgical mesh is usually inserted and fixed in place with small surgical staples. 

The operation takes an average of 45 to 60 minutes. Patients generally stay in the clinic for between eight and 24 hours.

Before the operation

  • You will have a blood test, medical examination, chest X-ray and electrocardiogram.
  • Your groin area will be shaved.
  • You must not eat or drink for 6 before your operation.
  • You must stop taking drugs such as aspirin, anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory agents and vitamin E, one week before the surgery.
  • You must remove all metal objects during the operation (rings, bracelets, earrings, body piercings, etc).

Post-operative care

  • After the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be kept under observation for one or two hours until you are fully awake.
  • You will be able to walk the following day, and a few days later you will be able to lead a completely normal life.
  • Strenuous activities are not recommended.
  • Try not to catch a cold so you do not cough.
  • The stitches will be removed one week after the operation.
  • If you do sports, you should not make efforts until three weeks after the operation, but walking or gentle jogging are allowed. 

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