Laparoscopic, Minimally Invasive Inguinal Hernia Repair
A hernioplasty is a hernia surgery that involves using mesh to cover the entire inguinal area. The mesh is then secured into place with sutures, clips or staples. Hernioplasties can be done laparoscopically, using several small incisions and a tube with a tiny camera on the end (a laparoscope). The laparoscope allows the surgeon to visualize and manipulate small instruments during the surgery. Using laparoscopic surgery to repair an inguinal hernia offers several advantages. There is less discomfort and scarring after surgery, and shorter recovery time. This procedure is ideal for a repeat hernia surgery (if the hernia recurs) or for people with inguinal hernias on both sides of the body. Individuals who have a very large inguinal hernia, an intestine that is pushed all the way down into the scrotum, or a history of previous pelvic surgery (e.g., surgery on the prostate) are not good candidates for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.