Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair
Dr. Sutker is a Plano, Texas, native who graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and earned his medical doctorate at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. He went on to also complete his general surgical internship and residency at UC-San Francisco. He received additional fellowship training... more
Hernias are extremely common, especially in the abdominal area, and could also be present and undetected at birth. They occur when tissue pushes through a muscle’s weak spot.
For qualifying patients, minimally invasive hernia repair is a great alternative to more invasive, open hernia repair. The patient heals faster, with less pain and less scarring. Typically, the patient will go home the same day of their operation, though they won’t be able to drive themselves. Risk of post-surgical complication is also drastically reduced with minimally invasive, laparoscopic surgery.
During the surgery, a laparoscope is used. This is a tiny camera that allows the surgeon to see inside the body via a television monitor. The surgeon uses this view to examine the hernia and put it back in place with small tools. In most cases, surgical mesh will be implanted to improve healing and to lessen the chance of recurrence. Once the operation is complete, all surgical materials are removed and the small incisions are closed.
Once the patient is finished, they will need to stay until the medication’s effects wear off. Depending on the severity of the hernia, some patients can expect to stay overnight for close monitoring.
Short- and long-term recovery also depends on the unique case. The patient may need to avoid stairs, sudden movement, driving, working, or lifting heavy objects for extended periods of time.
Since hernias have a high rate of recurrence, patients should be wary of any symptoms, following up with their healthcare team as necessary.
