Surgical Procedures
Inguinal hernia
What is a hernia?
A hernia is a bulge of tissue created by a tear or weakness in the muscles of the abdominal wall that may allow the intestines to push through during movement, coughing, or lifting. Potentially, the intestines could and sometimes do become trapped in the hernia sac, causing an incarcerated hernia. The intestines may also become twisted in the hernia sac, causing a strangulated hernia. Both of these are painful, and can lead to more complicated operations and/or health problems.
A hernia in the groin area is called an inguinal hernia. This area is a natural place of weakness in the abdominal wall, especially for men, because of the blood vessels and structures that pass through the area.
How do I know if I have a hernia?
Usually a hernia causes pain with lifting, moving, or coughing; Dr. Beutel will make the appropriate diagnosis. A developed hernia has a bulge of tissue that protrudes upon coughing or stressing the abdominal muscles. The bulge will often disappear when the person lies back, or it can be pushed back in. With a very early weakness sometimes there is no bulge, but just pain. Also, there can be a bulge with very little localized pain. With a strangulated hernia there may be symptoms of fever, pain, and other signs that Dr. Beutel will discuss with you.
Usually the best diagnosis comes through taking a careful history and a thorough physical exam. Also, Dr. Beutel may order some tests, such as a C-T scan, to make sure that your organs and intestines are functioning properly.
I have a hernia. What happens next?
The best treatment for a hernia is an operation to repair the strained or torn muscle in the abdominal wall. This eliminates the possibility of a strangulated or incarcerated hernia, and usually the pain goes away.
Inguinal hernias can be repaired now through a bit smaller open incision. This allows mesh to be placed when necessary, in addition to the stitches. Although the laparoscopic approach is at times an option, the open incision has remained the standard by which laparoscopic repair is measured. Dr. Beutel carefully discusses the alternatives with his patients to find the best option for them.
What are the risks of the operation?
Risks include a 2-5% reoccurrence rate, post-operative infection (in some cases requiring removal of the mesh), post-operative persistent pain, bleeding, and swelling.
What do I need to do to prepare for the surgery?
You will be given separate instructions at the office checkout and from the hospital. Be sure to follow these carefully. If you smoke, it would be best if you could stop or reduce the amount drastically. It will help your lungs during the surgery, and coughing less will diminish the stress on the sutures and/or mesh afterwards.
Related documents: 
Inguinal hernia post-operative instructions
