Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Weak spots can develop in the layer of muscle in the abdominal wall, resulting in the contents of the abdomen pushing through. This produces a lump called a hernia. 

An inguinal hernia happens at the inguinal canal. This is a narrow passage in which blood vessels supplying the testicle pass through the abdominal wall.

A hernia can be dangerous because the intestines or other structures within the abdomen can get trapped and have their blood supply cut off (strangulated hernia)

A hernia can sometimes be controlled with a padded support belt which is known as a truss, however a hernia will not disappear without an operation.

A variety of anaesthetic techniques are possible, with the operation takingabout three-quarters of an hour.

Your surgeon will make a cut in your groin and remove the ‘hernial sac’. They will strengthen the muscle layer with stitches and will usually insert a synthetic mesh to cover the weak spot.

You should be able to go home the same day or the day after and we advise that you should increase how much you walk around over the first few days after your operation.

You should be able to return to work after two to four weeks depending on the extent of surgery and your type of work.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, you should ask a member of the healthcare team or your GP for advice. Occasionally the hernia comes back.

Open inguinal hernia repair costs are covered by most medical insurance policies, but please check with your insurer first. If you are paying for your own treatment the cost of the operation will be explained and confirmed in writing when you book the operation. Ask the hospital for a quote beforehand, and ensure that this includes the surgeon’s fee, the anaesthetist’s fee and the hospital charge for your procedure.