Hernia Surgeon Dr. Stephen Allison
Inguinal Hernia Repair
What is an Inguinal Hernia?
The inguinal canal is the tunnel in the lower part of the abdomen through which structures pass from inside the abdomen to the scrotum. A hernia is a weakness at the site of the inguinal canal where a bulge can develop. This can be painful and can even contain intraabdominal organs such as the bowel. Hernias can be on one or both sides of the lower abdomen. They can be repaired by either laparoscopic (key-hole) or by open surgery by a hernia surgeon. Dr Allison will discuss the roles of these different approaches in your particular circumstances.
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair Explained
This is key-hole surgery to repair the hernia by hernia surgeon Dr. Stephen Allison.
Three ports (tubes) are placed into the abdomen through small cuts on the skin. Through these ports a telescope and operating instruments are placed.
A space is created separating the abdominal cavity from the region of the hernia. Mesh is placed and fixed into place which makes the area of the weakness strong.
Open Inguinal Hernia Repair Explained
This is open surgery to repair the hernia.
A skin incision is made the region of the hernia and the weakness is identified and repaired. Mesh is placed and fixed into place which makes the area of the weakness strong. The wound is closed with absorb-able sutures that do not need to be removed.
Postoperative Recovery
You will need to avoid heavy activity for 6 weeks. This allows the repair to become solid.
Light duties are required after this operation. This means NO heavy lifting. Carrying a cup of tea or coffee is OK. Carrying out the washing to hang on the line, mowing the lawn, or doing the house work should be avoided for a period of 4 weeks to ensure adequate wound healing and strengthening. A guide is lifting the 3 kg milk container – avoid for 4 weeks. Heavier physical activities, such as returning to the gym or competitive sports, should not resume until 6 weeks after the operation.
