Groin Hernia
Groin hernia surgery tailored to you. The operation should fit the patient, rather than the patient being fitted to a particular operation.
Groin hernias are very common and can occur at any age.
Open or laparoscopic repair recommended for the individual patient.
Mesh is used in most adult groin hernia repairs to reinforce the repair.
Most patients return home the same day and increase activity progressively.
What is a groin hernia?
A groin hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakness in the lower abdominal wall, producing a lump or bulge in the groin.
The most common type is an inguinal hernia. Femoral hernias are less common but are particularly important to recognise because they have a greater risk of becoming trapped.
Groin hernias are very common and can occur at any age, although they are more frequent in men.
Symptoms can include:
- Lump or swelling in the groin
- Discomfort, aching or pressure
- Pain with lifting, coughing or exercise
- A dragging sensation in the groin
- A lump more prominent when standing or straining
A hernia that becomes suddenly painful, firm or cannot be pushed back in, particularly when associated with vomiting or abdominal pain, requires urgent medical assessment.
Does every groin hernia need surgery?
No. For some people with a small or minimally symptomatic inguinal hernia, particularly men, watchful waiting can be reasonable.
Surgery is generally considered when the hernia is causing pain or limiting activity, is increasing in size, is difficult to reduce, or when its characteristics make complications more concerning.
Femoral hernias are generally treated more proactively because of their greater risk of incarceration and strangulation.
The decision to operate should take into account the hernia itself as well as your general health, lifestyle and what you want to be able to do.
Open or laparoscopic repair?
There is no single operation that is best for every groin hernia. I perform both open and laparoscopic groin hernia repair and recommend the approach according to the individual patient and hernia.
Laparoscopic repair
Keyhole surgery through several small incisions using a camera and mesh placed behind the abdominal wall.
- Bilateral groin hernias
- Recurrent hernia after previous open repair
- Physically active patients
- When an earlier return to normal activity is important
Open repair
Performed through an incision directly over the groin.
- Larger or more complex hernias
- Certain previous operations
- When laparoscopic surgery is not appropriate
Mesh choice
Mesh is used in most adult groin hernia repairs to reinforce the weakened area and reduce the risk of recurrence.
For laparoscopic groin hernia repair, I most commonly use BARD 3DMax™ mesh, generally using a medium- or heavyweight version depending on the individual repair.
There are different types of mesh and different positions in which mesh can be placed. The appropriate choice depends on the type of repair, the anatomy of the hernia and individual patient factors.
If you have concerns about permanent mesh, these can be discussed during your consultation.
Getting back to normal life
The aim of hernia repair is not simply to close a defect. It is to allow you to return comfortably and confidently to normal life, work and the activities you enjoy.
Book a groin hernia assessment
A clinical examination is often sufficient to diagnose a groin hernia. Imaging can be arranged when the diagnosis is uncertain.