In This Section

UH Live

Laparoscopic Repair

Michael J. Rosen, MD, FACS,

division chief of general surgery performs a minimally invasive functional abdominal wall reconstruction.

Michael J. Rosen, MD, FACS,

division chief of general surgery performs a minimally invasive functional abdominal wall reconstruction.

Hernia Repair Techniques

Suturing

Only very small defects can be closed by simply suturing the abdominal wall musculature together. Most hernias will require a piece of mesh for a long lasting repair.


Mesh

Mesh is a piece of prosthetic material that is used to repair hernias. This mesh acts like a fence to reduce tension on the wound and prevent recurrence. The mesh is inserted through the incision in the abdomen or the groin and sutured into position. Like patching a tire, it is ideal to place the mesh behind the defect so that the natural forces of the abdomen hold the mesh in place. This can be accomplished using open and laparoscopic techniques.


Open Repair

In this operation, an incision is made on the abdominal wall, the hernia sac is reduced and the mesh is placed just below the fascia.


Laparoscopic Repair

This technique has been described as a minimally invasive approach. It involves making three or four tiny incisions. The mesh is placed behind the defect, one layer deeper in the abdominal cavity. Each technique of hernia repair has its own unique benefi ts and indications and it is important to have several options when deciding which type of repair is ideal for your hernia.