A hernia is an abnormal protrusion of the whole or part of a viscus (bowel, fat, omentum) from its normal place, usually in the abdomen (in the peritoneal cavity). The commonest type of hernia is an inguinal or groin hernia, but hernias can occur elsewhere in the abdominal wall, producing various names – ventral, incisional, epigastric, femoral, umbilical and parastomal.
Choosing which surgical repair for each hernia depends on the site and size of the hernia, as well as various patient factors. Whether the hernia is primary (never been repaired) or recurrent (had prior repair) can also be an important consideration. Hernias can be surgically repaired “open” by incising directly over the hernia or region, or laparoscopically (“key-hole”), depending on the type of hernia. Repairs can be done either by using sutures or by inserting an absorbable or non-absorbable mesh.
Some hernias can be repaired on as “day only” procedures, but larger ventral and incisional hernia repairs may involve a short stay in hospital.
Please speak with your doctor over what type of hernia you have, what repair is likely to be best for you and your circumstances, and importantly, how long you will need to recover from your operation.