Hernia Repair

Hernia repair (herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty) is surgery to fix a hernia, where an organ or tissue pushes through a weakness in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. About 1 million hernia repairs are performed annually in the US. Types include inguinal (groin), umbilical, incisional, and hiatal hernias.

Surgery is recommended when a hernia causes pain, grows larger, or risks becoming incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated (blood supply cut off). Strangulated hernias are surgical emergencies. Even asymptomatic hernias may be repaired to prevent future complications.

Fast for 8 hours before surgery. Stop blood thinners as directed. Inform your surgeon of all medications and allergies. Pre-operative testing may include blood work and imaging.

The surgeon pushes the protruding tissue back into place and reinforces the weakened area, usually with synthetic mesh. The procedure can be performed open (one incision), laparoscopically (several small incisions), or robotically. It takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on complexity.

Laparoscopic repair allows most patients to go home the same day and return to light activities in 1-2 weeks and full activities in 3-4 weeks. Open repair may take 4-6 weeks for full recovery. Avoid heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks.

Risks include hernia recurrence (1-5% with mesh), chronic pain at the site, mesh-related complications, infection, seroma (fluid buildup), and injury to nearby structures like the vas deferens or intestine.

Watchful waiting may be appropriate for small, asymptomatic inguinal hernias in men. Trusses (supportive garments) can temporarily manage symptoms but do not fix the hernia. Surgery remains the only definitive treatment.

Covered by most health insurance plans when medically necessary. Emergency hernia repairs are covered without prior authorization. Elective repairs may require pre-authorization.