Robotic Inguinal Hernia Repair

What Causes Inguinal Hernias and How to Treat Them

Hernias are common and can affect people of all ages. A hernia emerges when part of an internal organ bulges against (or through) a hole or weak area in the belly wall. The type of hernia you have depends on where it is and how it occurs.

An inguinal hernia is a bulge, usually in the groin or abdomen, that’s more common in men. A combination of muscle weakness and straining (like heavy lifting) can cause hernias. Some people are born with hernias or with weak abdominal muscles. Patients can have a family history of hernias.

Certain activities and medical problems may increase pressure in the belly and potentially cause a hernia, including:

  • Cigarette smoking
  • Constipation
  • Chronic coughing
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Obesity 
  • Poor nutrition  

Benefits of robotic inguinal hernia repair

With open surgery, doctors make a longer incision in the abdomen. The incision must be large enough for the surgeon to fit his/her hands and surgical instruments inside the abdomen. Open surgery allows doctors to see and touch your organs and tissue while operating.

Minimally invasive surgery is performed by specialists who make several very small incisions using long, thin instruments and tiny cameras. An internal camera takes clear, real-time images inside the body. Images are sent to a video monitor in the operating room which guides surgeons as they maneuver high-tech robotic arms from a computer console.

Help prevent hernias with positive lifestyle changes

You can’t prevent the congenital kind of hernia that’s inherited. Yet, some at-risk patients can proactively reduce strain on the abdominal muscles and connective tissues by adopting practical, good-for-you habits.

  • Maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor about the best exercise and diet plan to sustain a lean body weight.
  • Eat more high-fiber foods. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains contain nutritious fiber to help prevent constipation and straining.
  • Lift carefully. If you must lift something heavy, always bend from your knees — not the waist or lower back.
  • Stop smoking. Besides its role in many serious diseases, smoking often causes a chronic cough that can lead to and aggravate an inguinal hernia.

Can you have a hernia without knowing it?

Yes. While many people don’t feel pain, you may see a bulge (or herniation). At that point, it’s probably time to make an appointment with a surgeon or specialist. Signs your hernia may be blocked or something more serious:

  • Fever
  • Nausea and vomiting  
  • Sudden pain that intensifies
  • A hernia bulge that turns red, purple or dark
  • Inability to go to the bathroom

Symptoms of inguinal hernias 

You may feel pain while standing or straining when using the bathroom or lifting heavy objects during daily activities. Other physical side effects can include:

  • A burning or aching sensation at the abdominal bulge
  • Weakness or pressure in the groin
  • Visible bump on either side of the pubic bone which becomes more obvious when standing 
  • Pain or discomfort in the groin muscles, especially when straining or lifting
  • A heavy, dragging sensation throughout the groin
  • Swelling around the testicles 

Find a doctor

Call 941-527-4270 to schedule an appointment with one of our general surgeons or search for a specialist online. 

Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if minimally invasive or robotic surgery is right for you.