Overview
An inguinal hernia is the most common type of hernia, accounting for approximately 75% of all abdominal wall hernias. It occurs when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the inguinal canal, a passage located in the groin region. Inguinal hernias are far more prevalent in men than women, owing to the natural weakness left at the internal inguinal ring following the descent of the testis during foetal development. They may be direct (pushing through the posterior wall of the inguinal canal) or indirect (passing through the internal inguinal ring). Most inguinal hernias require elective surgical repair to prevent the serious complication of strangulation.
The Procedure
At ILS Hospitals, inguinal hernia repair is offered via both open and laparoscopic approaches. The Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair is the gold standard open technique, involving placement of a flat synthetic mesh over the defect through a groin incision to reinforce the inguinal canal without tension. The laparoscopic approach, including TAPP (transabdominal preperitoneal) and TEP (totally extraperitoneal) techniques places the mesh from within the abdominal cavity via 3 small keyhole incisions, offering the advantages of less post-operative pain, faster recovery, and the ability to repair bilateral hernias simultaneously through the same incisions.
Recovery
Open inguinal hernia repair typically allows return to light activity within 1 to 2 weeks and full activity within 4 to 6 weeks. Laparoscopic repair offers faster recovery, with most patients returning to normal activity within 1 to 2 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and straining during the initial recovery period. Scrotal swelling and bruising are common following open repair and resolve gradually. At ILS Hospitals, our hernia surgery programme offers patients access to experienced surgeons and both surgical approaches, ensuring the most appropriate technique is selected for each individual, delivering safe, effective, and durable results.
