INGUINAL HERNIAS
Inguinal hernias are the most common groin hernias. This family of hernias are holes or weaknesses in the groin that cause pain, impair an individual’s ability to perform daily activities, can increase in size causing bulging or cosmetic distortion, and risk incarceration or strangulation. When these hernias cause symptoms, there is only one way to fix the defect: surgical repair. However, surgical repair is complicated with up to 1 in 10 repairs failing within 2 years. In addition, up to 30% of patients suffer from chronic groin pain following repair. Repair by generalist surgeon rather than a specialist substantially increases the risk of failure and complications. Dr. Liang is a recognized expert at groin hernia repair. His surgical results have been shown to improve outcomes.
Figure 1: Groin hernias are holes or defects in the muscle and fascia of the groin. The most common type is an inguinal hernia which can be direct or indirect. Other less common groin hernias include femoral hernia and obturator hernias.
Figure 2: With inguinal hernia repair, the defect or hole is repaired and buttressed with mesh.
Inguinal Hernia Question and Answer
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia is a weakness that allows tissue to protrude through the groin. Due to differences in pelvic anatomy between men and women, men are much more likely to develop this type of hernia.
Inguinal hernias can occur anytime from infancy to adulthood. One-third of all men experience this condition at some point in their lifetime, making inguinal hernias a very common problem.
What are the symptoms of an inguinal hernia?
Symptoms often include abdominal or groin pain that worsens with coughing, bending, or lifting heavy objects. In addition, many people notice a bulge in the area that may even protrude down toward the groin. Inguinal hernias can occur on just one side of the groin or can occur on both the right and left sides simultaneously.
How is an inguinal hernia treated?
The only effective treatment for an inguinal hernia causing signs or symptoms is surgery. Groin hernias can be repaired using an open technique or a minimally invasive approach (laparoscopic or robotic). Both techniques are effective. Open surgery has the benefit of being able to be performed under local/regional anesthesia and is very effective repair. In addition, this approach is preferred for extremely large groin hernias. Minimally invasive surgery has the benefit of slightly less pain and slightly shorter recovery on average.
The vast majority of inguinal hernias are repaired using mesh as mesh repair has been shown to be more durable with no difference in other outcomes.
Dr. Liang will discuss with you your options, the advantages and disadvantages, and your preferences.
What can I expect during recovery following groin hernia repair?
The vast majority of patients will be able to go home the day of surgery. Most patients will require 1 week to recover at home with light activity only. After that, most patients are able to return to regular activity. For more strenuous work, additional week or two may be needed to recuperate.
MORME SERVICES:
Mike Liang, MD, Houston, TX
Phone: 315-214-1530
Clinical Office: 22751 Professional Drive, Suite 120, Kingwood, TX 77339
GME Office: 22999 US Hwy 59 N, St. 105, Kingwood, TX, 77339
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