Hernia surgery

Abdominal wall hernias are often noticeable as a protrusion of the abdominal or inguinal region. This is a gap in the abdominal wall through which the intestine, peritoneum or fat can protrude. In principle, hernias can occur on the entire abdominal wall, but occur more frequently at the navel, in the groin or in the area of a scar after surgery.

Hernias can be operated in an open surgical technique, i.e. with a larger incision or in minimally invasive technique with small incisions. The operation of umbilical hernias is usually performed using the open technique. The hernia gap is closed with a suture or, in the case of larger hernias, by implanting a mesh.

Inguinal hernias are mainly operated minimally invasive. The hernia sac is gently dissected out of the inguinal canal through a small incision at the navel and two small incisions in the lower abdomen, and the hernia gap is closed with a mesh (TEP technique). Open surgery is also possible, especially for recurrent hernia and prior minimally invasive surgery. In this case, the hernia gap can be closed either with or without mesh implantation (Lichtenstein-OP or Shouldice-OP).

Incisional hernias are operated on by opening the old scar, usually by inserting a mesh between the fascia and the straight abdominal muscle (Sublay technique).