Colon Surgery
Inguinal Hernia Repair
What Is An Inguinal Hernia?
An inguinal hernia refers to when fatty and/or intestinal tissue is pushed into the groin area of the body via the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal harbors various structures that are part of the reproductive system. For males, the spermatic cords are located in the inguinal canal; for females, the inguinal canal houses the round ligament of the uterus. An inguinal hernia may cause a bulging in the skin and is not always painful for some. Our Palmdale hernia surgeon recommends treatment for those who do experience symptoms of pain and discomfort.
What Is The Treatment?
Sharp pains when engaged in physical activity and pain in the groin are symptomatic of inguinal hernias. Inguinal hernias most often occur in males and are more likely to happen to people who have:
A family history of inguinal hernias
Those who are overweight or obese.
If it is causing discomfort and interrupting one’s everyday life, a doctor might recommend an inguinal hernia repair surgery. There are two main procedures available:
A herniorrhaphic surgery, which requires the surgeon to cut the patient open in order to operate
A laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair surgery, a less invasive procedure
What Is Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair?
In a laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair surgery, small incisions are made in the lower abdomen. Then, it is filled with carbon dioxide to provide maximum visibility to the laparoscope (a specialized camera used in surgery). Next, the peritoneum (the membrane lining the internal organs) is removed to expose the inguinal cavity and the hernia. The surgeon will then carefully remove the hernia by either cutting off the herniated tissue or pushing it back into its original place. Any blood vessels and tissue that are in the way and may leak are cauterized. The surgeon will then tighten the opening to the inguinal cavity to prevent the risk of future herniation.
Why Laparoscopic Surgery?
Doctors will most likely recommend a laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair, as it is minimally invasive and less painful. A laparoscopy allows surgeons to make more precise cuts in the body and reduce the risk of internal hemorrhaging.