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Inguinal Hernia
Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Creator: Prof. Dr. Bahadır Külah
Published: 2024-09-19T00:27:31+03:00

Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia occurs when the internal organs in the abdomen protrude toward the groin area due to a weakness in the abdominal wall. The hernia may cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discomfort. At A Life Health Group, we offer safe and effective solutions for inguinal hernia surgery with our team of specialists and state-of-the-art equipment.

You can find everything you are curious about regarding inguinal hernia surgery in detail and in an easy-to-understand manner. By learning about the stages of the process, treatment options, success rates, risks, recovery period, and the advantages offered by A Life Health Group, you can take a hopeful and healthy step toward a better life.

Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Inguinal hernia surgery is a surgical procedure performed to repair a hernia that occurs when internal abdominal organs (usually the intestines) protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This condition is especially common in men and can lead to pain, discomfort, and even serious complications over time. Inguinal hernia surgery can be performed using either open or laparoscopic (closed) techniques to reposition the hernia and strengthen the abdominal wall. The surgery is performed to relieve pain, improve quality of life, and prevent possible complications.

Types of Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Today, inguinal hernia surgeries are performed using various techniques, and the most suitable method is chosen based on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s preference.

Inguinal hernia surgeries are generally divided into two main categories: open and closed (laparoscopic).

Open Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Lichtenstein Surgery:
- It is the most commonly performed open surgical technique.
- A hernia sac is located through an incision made in the groin area, and the herniated organs are repositioned into the abdomen.
- The weakness in the abdominal wall is reinforced with a synthetic mesh.
- It is usually performed under local or spinal anesthesia.
- The recovery period typically lasts a few weeks.
Other Open Surgical Techniques:
- Different techniques such as Desarda, Shouldice, and Bassini are also available.
- In these methods, the hernia sac is repaired, and the abdominal wall is reinforced.

Closed (Laparoscopic) Inguinal Hernia Surgery

TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal) Surgery:
- Small incisions are made to enter the abdominal cavity and reach the space between the peritoneum and the abdominal wall.
- The hernia sac is repaired, and the abdominal wall is strengthened with mesh.
- It is performed under general anesthesia.
- The recovery period is usually shorter.
TEPP (Total Extraperitoneal) Surgery:
- It is performed without entering the abdominal cavity, working between the layers of the abdominal wall.
- The hernia sac and abdominal wall are repaired similarly.
- It is performed under general anesthesia.
- It offers the advantages of less pain and faster recovery.

Why Is Inguinal Hernia Surgery Performed?

Inguinal hernia surgery is a surgical procedure performed when internal abdominal organs protrude through a weakened or torn area in the abdominal wall of the groin. This condition can cause pain, discomfort, and potentially serious complications that negatively affect the patient’s quality of life. Therefore, inguinal hernia surgery is generally performed for the following reasons:

It can cause pain and discomfort in the groin area, especially during activities such as lifting heavy objects, coughing, or straining. Surgery relieves this pain and discomfort, allowing the patient to perform daily activities more comfortably.
If left untreated, inguinal hernias can enlarge over time and lead to more serious complications.
Incarceration: When the herniated organs become trapped in the abdominal wall, blood flow may be restricted, causing tissue damage.
Strangulation: When the blood flow to the trapped hernia is completely cut off, gangrene (tissue death) may develop. This condition requires emergency surgical intervention. Surgery is essential to prevent such serious complications.
Inguinal hernias can limit a patient’s physical activity and reduce quality of life. Surgery helps patients lead a more active and comfortable life.
Inguinal hernia surgery repairs the weakness in the abdominal wall and reduces the risk of hernia recurrence. Especially surgeries performed using synthetic mesh strengthen the abdominal wall and lower the likelihood of the hernia returning.

Who Should Undergo Inguinal Hernia Surgery?

Inguinal hernia surgery is generally recommended for patients with the following conditions:

Symptomatic Hernias: Inguinal hernias that cause symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or swelling.
Enlarging Hernias: Hernias that grow over time and cause increasing discomfort.
Hernias at Risk of Complications: Hernias with a risk of serious complications such as incarceration or strangulation.
Hernias That Reduce Quality of Life: Hernias that negatively affect the patient’s daily activities and overall quality of life.
Children: Inguinal hernias are also common in children and are usually recommended for surgery once diagnosed.

The decision for surgery depends on factors such as the patient’s age, overall health status, the size, and type of the hernia. The surgeon evaluates the patient’s condition and determines the most appropriate treatment plan.

Age and General Health Condition:
- Surgery may carry higher risks for elderly patients or those with chronic illnesses.
Size and Type of Hernia:
- Large and complex hernias generally require surgical intervention.
Patient Preferences:
- The patient’s symptoms and lifestyle also play a role in the decision for surgery.

How Is Inguinal Hernia Surgery Performed?

Inguinal hernia surgery involves returning the herniated tissue to the abdominal cavity and repairing the weakness in the abdominal wall. This surgery can be performed using either open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.

Open Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia (numbing from the waist down) or general anesthesia (the patient is completely asleep).
Incision: A 5–10 cm incision is made in the groin area where the hernia is located.
Repair of the Hernia Sac: The surgeon locates the hernia sac and carefully pushes the herniated tissues (usually intestines) back into the abdominal cavity.
Reinforcement of the Abdominal Wall: To prevent recurrence of the hernia, the weakness in the abdominal wall is repaired. This can be done with sutures or by using a mesh. The mesh is a net-like material that strengthens and supports the hernia area.
Closure of the Incision: The incision is closed with either absorbable or non-absorbable sutures.

Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Anesthesia: Performed under general anesthesia.
Small Incisions: Three to four small incisions are made in the abdomen.
Laparoscope: A thin tube with a camera at the end (laparoscope) is inserted into the abdominal cavity through one of the incisions.
Surgical Instruments: Surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions.
Repair of the Hernia Sac: The surgeon views the hernia sac through the laparoscope camera, locates it, and pushes the herniated tissues back into the abdominal cavity.
Reinforcement of the Abdominal Wall: A mesh is placed and secured to the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence of the hernia.
Closure of the Incisions: The small incisions are closed with sutures.

Before Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Before inguinal hernia surgery, your doctor will perform a series of tests. These tests are necessary to prepare you for the surgery and to assess possible risks.

Physical Examination: Your doctor will examine the hernia and evaluate your overall health condition.
Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans are performed to determine the size and location of the hernia.
Blood Tests: Blood tests are conducted to check values such as blood count, kidney, and liver functions.
Anesthesia Evaluation: The anesthesiologist will inform you about the type of anesthesia to be used during the surgery and assess whether you are ready for the procedure.

First Days and Weeks

Rest: Be sure to rest during the first few days after surgery. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
Pain Management: You may feel pain after the surgery. Take the painkillers prescribed by your doctor regularly.
Wound Care:
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care.
- If you notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, fever), contact your doctor immediately.
Nutrition: Eat light and easily digestible foods that do not strain your digestive system. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent constipation.
Movement: Take light walks to improve your blood circulation, but avoid excessive physical activity.
Coughing and Sneezing: When you need to cough or sneeze, support your abdomen with a pillow to avoid putting pressure on the surgical area.
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all follow-up visits scheduled by your doctor.

Long-Term Recovery

Heavy Lifting and Exercise:
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercises unless approved by your doctor.
- Gradually return to your exercise routine.
Nutrition and Lifestyle:
- Maintain a healthy diet and keep your weight within the ideal range.
- Eat fiber-rich foods and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.
Preventing Hernia Recurrence:
- Avoid lifting heavy objects and use proper lifting techniques.
- Treat conditions like chronic cough or constipation.
- If you smoke, quit.

Recovery Based on Surgery Type

Laparoscopic Surgery:
- Usually provides less pain and a faster recovery period.
- Smaller incisions result in less visible scarring.
Open Surgery:
- Recovery may take slightly longer than with laparoscopic surgery.
- Scarring may be more noticeable due to the larger incision.

Risks of Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, inguinal hernia surgery carries certain risks. These risks may vary depending on the type of surgery (open or laparoscopic), the patient’s overall health condition, and other factors.

Possible Side Effects of Inguinal Hernia Surgery:

Infection: An infection may develop at the surgical site.
Bleeding or Hematoma: Bleeding may occur during or after the surgery, leading to blood accumulation (hematoma).
Pain: Postoperative pain is normal, but some patients may experience chronic pain.
Wound Healing Problems: Wound dehiscence, delayed healing, or scarring may occur.
Nerve Damage: Nerves in the groin area may be damaged, causing numbness, pain, or loss of sensitivity.
Recurrence: There is a risk of the hernia recurring. This risk depends on the surgical method and the patient’s condition.
Tissue Damage: There is a risk of injury to internal organs or tissues during surgery.
Anesthesia Complications: Allergic reactions or respiratory problems related to anesthesia may occur.
Mesh-Related Complications: If a synthetic mesh is used during surgery, complications such as infection, pain, or displacement of the mesh may develop.

The risks of inguinal hernia surgery can vary depending on the individual patient’s condition. It is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor about the risks and benefits before the operation. Consult your doctor if you have any problems or concerns.

Inguinal Hernia Surgery at A Life

A Life Health Group aims for the highest success rate in inguinal hernia treatment with its team of expert general surgeons, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and modern operating rooms.

Advantages of A Life Health Group in Inguinal Hernia Treatment:

Expert Team: We work with a team of highly skilled and experienced general surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art medical devices and modern operating rooms in our surgeries. We apply advanced techniques such as laparoscopic surgery.
Patient-Centered Approach: We create personalized treatment plans by prioritizing our patients’ needs and expectations.
High Success Rate: We have high success rates in inguinal hernia surgeries and place great importance on patient satisfaction.
Comprehensive Service: We offer preoperative consultation, postoperative follow-up, and rehabilitation services.

For more information or to schedule an appointment regarding inguinal hernia or other general surgery procedures, you can visit our website or contact us through our communication channels.

Remember, if left untreated, inguinal hernia can lead to complications. With early diagnosis and treatment, you can reduce these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Reviews from Patients Who Underwent Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Reviews from patients who have undergone inguinal hernia surgery generally focus on the success of the operation and the recovery process. On online forums, patient review websites, and social media platforms, many people share their personal experiences.

Overall, the reviews of patients who have had inguinal hernia surgery are positive. Most patients report that their pain has decreased after the surgery, their quality of life has improved, and they have been able to return to their daily activities more comfortably. Those who underwent laparoscopic surgery, in particular, express satisfaction due to advantages such as less pain, faster recovery, and smaller surgical scars.

Here are some comments from patients who have had inguinal hernia surgery:

"I was very anxious before my inguinal hernia surgery, but the operation went very smoothly. I had very little pain afterward and was able to return to my normal life within a few days."
"I had laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery. My surgical scars are very small and almost invisible. My recovery process was also very quick."
"Before the surgery, I constantly felt pain and discomfort due to my hernia. After the operation, all of these complaints completely disappeared."
"I was afraid of the surgery, but my doctor and nurses treated me very well and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process."
"I experienced some pain after the surgery, but thanks to painkillers, I managed it easily. Now I feel much better and have no problems related to my hernia."

Of course, like any surgery, inguinal hernia surgery also carries certain risks, and some patients may experience complications. Therefore, it is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor before surgery to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits.

Postoperative Complaints After Inguinal Hernia Surgery

It is normal to experience certain complaints after inguinal hernia surgery. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, they may indicate more serious complications. Therefore, it is important to monitor your postoperative symptoms carefully and contact your doctor if you have any concerns.

Pain: It is normal to feel pain in the surgical area. This pain is usually mild to moderate and can be managed with painkillers. The intensity of the pain should gradually decrease over time.
Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising around the surgical site are also normal. These typically subside within a few days.
Numbness or tingling: You may experience numbness or tingling around or near the surgical area. This is usually temporary and occurs due to stretching or irritation of the nerves during surgery.
Constipation: Bowel movements may slow down after surgery, leading to constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids, eating fiber-rich foods, and doing light exercise can help prevent constipation.
Difficulty urinating: Some patients may experience difficulty urinating after surgery. This condition is usually temporary and improves within a few days.
Fatigue: Feeling tired after surgery is normal. Your body needs rest to recover.

Which Department Treats Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia occurs when a weakness or tear in the abdominal wall allows the intestines or other abdominal tissues to protrude through the groin area. The diagnosis and treatment of this condition fall under the field of general surgery.

General surgeons perform surgical treatments for diseases involving various parts of the body, including the digestive system, abdominal wall, endocrine system, breast, skin, and soft tissues. Inguinal hernia surgery is one of the most common operations performed by general surgeons.

If you experience symptoms of an inguinal hernia (such as swelling, pain, or discomfort in the groin area), it is important to consult a general surgeon without delay.

How Long Does Inguinal Hernia Surgery Take?

The duration of inguinal hernia surgery can vary depending on several factors, including:

Type of procedure performed: Whether open surgery or laparoscopic surgery is used affects the duration. Laparoscopic surgery is generally shorter.
Size and location of the hernia: The larger or more complex the hernia, the longer the procedure may take.
Patient’s condition: The patient’s age, general health, and other medical conditions can influence the surgery time.
Surgeon’s experience: An experienced surgeon can perform the surgery more efficiently and quickly.

In general, inguinal hernia surgeries last between 30 minutes and 1 hour, though in some cases, the procedure may take up to 2 hours.

For example:

Simple inguinal hernias: 30–45 minutes
Complex or large hernias: 1–2 hours
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery: 30–60 minutes

For more detailed information about the duration of the surgery, you can schedule an appointment with the expert general surgeons at A Life Health Group.

How Many Days Does It Take to Recover from Inguinal Hernia Surgery?

The recovery period after inguinal hernia surgery varies depending on several factors, including the type of surgery (open or laparoscopic), the size of the hernia, and the patient’s age and overall health condition.

In general, patients who undergo laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery recover faster than those who have open surgery.

Here are the average recovery times based on the type of surgery:

Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Surgery:

Hospital stay: You can usually be discharged the same day or the next day.
Return to work: You may return to light work within 1–2 weeks.
Heavy lifting and exercise: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 3–4 weeks.
Full recovery: Complete recovery may take several weeks.

Open Inguinal Hernia Surgery:

Hospital stay: Typically lasts 1–3 days.
Return to work: You may return to light work within 2–4 weeks.
Heavy lifting and exercise: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for 4–6 weeks.
Full recovery: Full recovery generally takes 4–6 weeks.

Bowel Movements After Inguinal Hernia Surgery

After inguinal hernia surgery, it is common to experience some temporary changes or discomfort during bowel movements. This happens because the surgery is performed near the intestines, and the recovery process can temporarily affect bowel activity.

Common Postoperative Bowel Changes

Constipation: Painkillers, anesthesia, and reduced mobility after surgery can cause constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids, eating fiber-rich foods, and doing light exercises can help restore regular bowel movements.
Diarrhea: Some patients may experience temporary diarrhea after surgery. It usually resolves on its own, but if it is severe or persistent, you should contact your doctor.
Gas and bloating: Feeling bloated or having trapped gas is normal after surgery and tends to improve over time.
Pain during defecation: Mild pain may occur due to tenderness in the surgical area. This can usually be managed with prescribed painkillers.
Fecal incontinence: Rarely, temporary loss of bowel control may occur. This usually improves with pelvic floor exercises.

Recommendations for Easier Bowel Movements After Surgery

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, fruit juice, and herbal teas to prevent constipation.
Eat fiber-rich foods: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your diet to promote healthy bowel movements.
Do light exercise: With your doctor’s approval, gentle walks can help stimulate intestinal activity and prevent constipation.
Do not delay bowel movements: Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge.
Avoid straining: Do not strain during defecation, as this can increase pressure on the surgical site and cause pain.
Follow your doctor’s advice: Take prescribed medications regularly and follow all postoperative care instructions carefully.

How Long Does Open Inguinal Hernia Surgery Take?

The duration of open inguinal hernia surgery varies depending on several factors but generally lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour. In some cases, the surgery may take up to 2 hours.

Factors Affecting the Duration of Surgery

Size and location of the hernia: The larger and more complex the hernia, the longer the surgery may take.
Patient’s condition: In elderly, obese, or medically complex patients, the operation may take longer.
Surgeon’s experience: An experienced surgeon can perform the procedure more efficiently and quickly.
Type of anesthesia: Surgeries under general anesthesia may take slightly longer than those performed under local anesthesia.

Steps of Open Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia (numbing the lower body) or general anesthesia (patient is asleep). It may take a few minutes for the anesthesia to take full effect.
Incision: A 5–10 cm incision is made in the groin area where the hernia is located.
Repair of the Hernia Sac: The surgeon identifies the hernia sac and gently pushes the contents (usually intestine) back into the abdominal cavity.
Reinforcement of the Abdominal Wall: To prevent recurrence, the weakened abdominal wall is repaired either with sutures or a mesh, which provides additional strength and support to the area.
Closure of the Incision: The incision is closed with dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches.

For more detailed information about the surgery duration, you can book an appointment with the expert general surgeons of A Life Health Group.

Inguinal Hernia Surgery Cost

For detailed information about inguinal hernia surgery prices at A Life Health Group, you can visit our website or contact us through our communication numbers. We would be pleased to offer you a personalized price quote.

How Much Does Inguinal Hernia Surgery Cost?

The cost of inguinal hernia surgery may vary depending on the type of surgery (open or laparoscopic), the patient’s overall health condition, the size of the hernia, and the conditions of our hospital. For the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information, it is recommended to contact the relevant departments of A Life Health Group.

Prepared by A Life Medical Editorial Board.

Last Updated: 6 Kasım 2025 14:05

Publish Date: 19 Eylül 2024 00:27