Expert Care for Inguinal (Groin) & Femoral (Thigh) Hernias

Diagnosis & Treatment of Groin and Thigh Hernias

Inguinal and femoral hernias are very common. Symptoms may include:

• Pain, burning or an aching sensation in the groin that gets worse when coughing, bending or lifting.
• A visible bulge in the groin area that goes away when lying down.
• Swollen or enlarged scrotum in men.

Not all inguinal/femoral hernias will require treatment. However, if the hernia grows and the pain becomes unmanageable, surgical repair may be recommended.

The goal of surgery is to reduce discomfort and strengthen the weakened area of the hernia. Most incisional hernias are repaired with surgical mesh reinforcement, using one of the following techniques:

• Laparoscopic surgery: The hernia is repaired through several very small incisions in the abdomen. This minimally invasive procedure typically results in less pain, a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery compared to open surgery.
• Robotic surgery: Using the da Vinci robotic surgery system, the hernia is repaired through a few small incisions, with greater precision and range of motion than traditional laparoscopic hernia repair. Advantages of robotic surgery may include less blood loss, lower risk of complications and reduced pain.
• Open surgery: In some cases, your surgeon may determine that open surgery is necessary, particularly if the hernia is very large or the risk of complications is high. Open surgery is just as safe as other techniques, but usually has a longer hospital stay and recovery period.

Recovery from Inguinal and Femoral Hernia Repair Surgery

Inguinal and femoral hernias can recur after surgery. It’s important to address any lifestyle factors that increase this risk, such as obesity and metabolic disorders before undergoing a hernia repair.

To reduce your risk of recurrence, maintain a healthy weight and avoid heavy lifting and any activities that strain the abdominal muscles in the weeks after surgery. Eat a high fiber diet to help keep stools soft and avoid the need to strain during bowel movements.