A general surgery procedure that repairs a hernia formed when tissues protrude through a weak area in the groin region of the abdominal wall, performed via open or laparoscopic technique.
Indication
- A palpable or visible bulge in the groin (inguinal hernia)
- Groin pain that increases with standing, coughing, or straining and decreases when lying down
- Recurring discomfort, dragging sensation, or symptoms affecting daily activities
- Suspicion of incarceration or strangulation (ischemia) — emergency indication
- Recurrence of a previously repaired hernia
- Asymptomatic hernias that show progressive enlargement or limit the patient
Preparation
- No food or drink for 8 hours before the procedure
- Blood thinners are adjusted with physician approval
- Routine blood tests, ECG; groin ultrasonography in selected cases
- Conditions that increase intra-abdominal pressure such as chronic cough, prostate problems, or constipation are evaluated
- Smoking cessation before surgery is recommended for smokers when feasible
How it's performed
- General, regional (spinal/epidural), or in selected cases, local anesthesia is administered
- In the open approach, a 5-7 cm incision is made in the groin; the hernia sac is mobilized
- The hernia contents are returned to the abdominal cavity; the sac is ligated when needed
- The weakened abdominal wall is generally reinforced with a synthetic mesh (tension-free repair)
- In the laparoscopic approach (TAPP/TEP), mesh is placed through small incisions using a camera and instruments
- Skin layers are closed; bleeding is controlled
Post-procedure
- Discharge is usually on the same or following day in most cases
- Mild swelling, bruising, and pain may occur for the first few days; prescribed analgesics are used
- Heavy lifting, intense exercise, and activities increasing intra-abdominal pressure are avoided for 2-4 weeks
- Outpatient follow-up at 7-10 days for wound care and suture review
- Preventing constipation and chronic cough reduces the risk of recurrence
Risks
- Wound infection, hematoma, or seroma (fluid collection)
- Temporary or permanent numbness or pain in the groin and front of the thigh (nerve sensitivity)
- Swelling around the testicle in men; rarely, involvement of vessels supplying the testicle
- Recurrence of the hernia
- Anesthesia reactions, deep vein thrombosis (rare)
FAQ
Can a hernia heal on its own?
An inguinal hernia in adults does not resolve on its own and tends to grow over time. Surgical repair is the principal treatment.
Is mesh placement mandatory?
In adults, mesh-based (tension-free) repair is generally preferred because it lowers the risk of recurrence. The chosen method depends on the patient's age, the size, and the type of hernia.
When can I return to work?
Return to office work is generally possible within 1 week; for those with heavy physical jobs, a gradual return is recommended over 3-6 weeks.
When can sexual activity resume?
Depending on healing and pain level, a gradual return is generally suggested within 1-2 weeks while avoiding strenuous positions; consult your physician if problems arise.
Related Information
Related Medical Services
Other services in the same specialty or with similar indications you may want to explore.
Umbilical Hernia Repair
Surgical Outpatient Services
Umbilical hernia repair — surgical correction of a hernia at the navel.
Incisional Hernia Repair
Surgical Outpatient Services
Incisional hernia repair — repair of an abdominal wall hernia developing at the site of a previous surgical incision.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Surgical Outpatient Services
Laparoscopic surgery — minimally invasive general surgery procedures performed through small incisions using a closed approach.
Appendectomy
Surgical Outpatient Services
Appendectomy (appendicitis surgery) — surgical removal of the inflamed appendix.
Cholecystectomy
Surgical Outpatient Services
Cholecystectomy — laparoscopic or open surgical removal of the gallbladder.
Splenectomy
Surgical Outpatient Services
Splenectomy (spleen surgery) — removal of the spleen for hematologic and traumatic conditions.
Abdominoplasty
Surgical Outpatient Services
Abdominoplasty — surgical correction of abdominal wall muscle-fascia laxity and excess skin/scar tissue.
Liposuction
Surgical Outpatient Services
Liposuction — surgical removal of localized fat deposits with the help of a cannula.