What is hernia repair surgery?

Hernia repair is done to correct a hernia, which occurs when a tissue piece breaks through a weakened part of the muscular wall. A hernia usually occurs in the groin or abdominal region, causing discomfort in the area.

Types of Hernia Repair Surgeries

• Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery
  is a procedure done to repair a break in the muscular wall using a laparoscope, tiny surgical tools, and a mesh.
• Open hernia repair
  involves creating an incision in the groin to see and repair the hernia.

How is hernia repair surgery performed?

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Less invasive hernia repair surgery is performed while the patient is placed under general anaesthetic. First, Dr Viljoen inserts the scope (laparoscope) through a small incision over the lower abdomen near the belly button. A camera attached at the tip of the scope captures precise images of the inside of the body and transfers the pictures to a monitor in Dr Viljoen’s theatre room. He then inflates the abdominal region with air to view the area extensively. Next, Dr Viljoen cuts into the abdominal lining (the peritoneum) to reveal the weakened part of the abdominal wall. Afterwards, he places mesh on the inside to conceal the defects and strengthen and support the tissue in the abdominal wall. Finally, he closes the incisions in the abdomen using stitches or surgical tape.

Open Hernia Repair Surgery

Open hernia repair involves creating an incision in the groin to access and treat the hernia. Once Dr Viljoen identifies the hernia, a bulge containing the intestine, he repositions the displaced tissue in the abdominal cavity. Next, he uses an artificial mesh and stitches to reinforce the weakened abdominal wall. Patients can often return home a few hours after the procedure. Typically, exercise should be restricted for at least four to six weeks after surgery.