Hernias are very common and occur throughout lifespan, from newborns to octogenarians. An estimated 27 percent of males and 3 percent of females in the United States are expected to have a groin or inguinal hernia at some time in their life. Some hernias are congenital and are best fixed in infancy. Others may develop over time, and are repaired when they become problematic.
There are many options for treating hernias. Some patients may not be candidates for surgery because of advanced age or extensive co-morbidities. Treatment in these cases includes limitation of exertion and the use of a truss or support.
For others, an inguinal hernia can interrupt work or activities, or it can become incarcerated or unreducible, in which case surgery is the best option.
Ideally the selection of hernia care and surgical technique is individualized for each patient depending on the type and extent of their hernia, their current health, their level of activity and personal preferences.
There have been many recent advances in hernia surgery repair, both with new and improved meshes, and with surgical techniques. While many hernias can be repaired without mesh, some require a mesh to patch the defect and help strengthen the repair and prevent recurrence. In the past, patients had problems with meshes that were heavy and inflexible. Recent advances in the materials have produced lightweight strong and flexible meshes that the body incorporates into its own tissue, resulting in superior repairs with fewer complications.
Experts in surgical hernia repairs are developing new minimally invasive robotic techniques and continue to use well-established laparoscopic and open approaches for hernia repair.
Inguinal hernia surgery can be performed laparoscopically or robotically and is almost always performed as an outpatient procedure. Most patients are able to return to work and light activities within a few days. Patients who participate in vigorous sports or jobs that require heavy lifting may require a longer recovery period. By six weeks, 80 percent of the strength of healing is complete and almost all patients are back to full activities.
In many cases you can live with a hernia. However, if you have one that is enlarging or causing you discomfort or concern check with your doctor to see what treatment options are right for you so that you can continue your active lifestyle.
Michael J. Mastrangelo, MD FACS is a Board Certified General Surgeon in Bend, Oregon and a member of the Americas Hernia Society (AHS) and International Hernia Collaboration (IHC) and contributor to the AHS-QC Quality Collaborative.
www.bendsurgicalassociates.com
