Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
Laparoscopic hernia is a minimally invasive surgery to repair the tears in the abdominal wall using a telescope and a patch called mesh. A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, the intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, the intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall.
Hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. Depending on its cause, a hernia can develop quickly or over a long period of time.
Some common causes of muscle weakness or strain that can lead to a hernia include:
- a congenital condition that occurs during development in the womb and is present from birth
- aging
- damage from an injury or surgery
- chronic coughing or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
- strenuous exercise or lifting heavy weights
- pregnancy, especially having multiple pregnancies
- constipation, which causes you to strain when having a bowel movement
- being overweight or obese
- fluid in the abdomen, or ascites
There are also certain things that can increase your risk of developing a hernia. They include:
- a personal or family history of hernias
- being older
- pregnancy
- being overweight or obese
- chronic constipation
- chronic cough (likely due to the repetitive increase in abdominal pressure)
- cystic fibrosis
- smoking (leading to weakening of connective tissue)
- being born prematurely or with a low birth weight
The most common symptom of a hernia is a bulge or lump in the affected area. For example, in the case of an inguinal hernia, you may notice a lump on either side of your pubic bone where your groin and thigh meet.
You may find that the lump disappears when you’re lying down. You’re more likely to feel your hernia through touch when you’re standing up, bending down, or coughing. Discomfort or pain in the area around the lump may also be present.
Some types of hernia, such as hiatal hernias, can have more specific symptoms. These can include things like heartburn, trouble swallowing, and chest pain.
Hernia Repair
If your hernia is growing larger or causing pain, your surgeon may decide it’s best to operate. They may repair your hernia by sewing the hole in the abdominal wall closed during surgery. This is commonly done by patching the hole with surgical mesh.
Hernias can be repaired with either open or laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery uses a tiny camera and miniaturized surgical equipment to repair the hernia using only a few small incisions. It’s also less damaging to the surrounding tissue.
