What are the Different Types of Inguinal Hernia Treatment?

Inguinal hernia treatment almost always requires surgical intervention. In mild cases where there are no bothersome symptoms, a doctor may decide to delay treatment until the symptoms worsen. In some cases, a type of supportive garment known as a truss may be worn to hold the hernia in place. Two types of surgery, frequently known as open or laparoscopic surgery, may be performed to repair an inguinal hernia.

It may not always be necessary to undergo inguinal hernia treatment. If the hernia is small and able to be manually pushed back into the proper position, the doctor may decide to monitor the situation periodically for any changes. If uncomfortable symptoms develop or the hernia grows larger, inguinal hernia treatment options may need to be discussed. Any questions or concerns about the various types of treatment options should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

A hernia truss may be used in some cases as a treatment option. This is a type of supportive garment designed to hold the hernia in place and reduce the amount of discomfort to the patient. The truss is designed only as a temporary treatment method so that surgery may be delayed and is considered as a viable treatment option only if the hernia is small and does not cause a lot of uncomfortable symptoms.

Inguinal hernia treatment almost always requires surgery at some point. Open surgery, also referred to as a herniorrhaphy, requires a relatively large incision in the abdominal wall. The hernia is then surgically repaired, and the incision is closed. This form of treatment is typically performed when laparoscopic surgery is not possible because it carries greater risks of complications, such as post-surgical bleeding and infection. Recovery time with this type of surgery is also typically several weeks longer than with laparoscopic surgery.

Laparoscopic surgery is the most commonly used form of inguinal hernia treatment. This procedure is much less invasive than open surgery, and a complete recovery is possible within a couple of weeks. Instead of one large incision, two or three very small incisions are made into the abdomen. A small camera and other instruments are inserted into these incisions so the hernia repair can take place. The patient can generally go home the same day this procedure is performed instead of needing to stay in the hospital for several days.