Hernia

Surgery for a hernia

There are two main ways surgery for hernias can be carried out:

open surgery where one cut is made to allow the surgeon to push the lump back into the abdomen
keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery this is a less invasive, but more difficult, technique where several smaller cuts are made, allowing the surgeon to use various special instruments to repair the hernia

Most people are able to go home the same day or the day after surgery and make a full recovery within a few weeks.

If your doctorrecommends having surgery, it's important to be aware of the potential risks, as well as the possibility of the hernia recurring.

Make sureyou discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure with your surgeon in detail before having the operation.

More information

To find out moreabout some common types of hernia surgery, see:

howinguinal hernias are repaired

how femoral hernias are repaired

howumbilical hernias are repaired

howhiatus hernias are treated

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for hernia

Introduction

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See your GP if you think you have a hernia. They may refer you to hospital for surgical treatment, if necessary. You should go the accident and emergency (A&E) department of your nearest hospita

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Your GP will usually be able to identify a hernia by examining the affected area. In some cases, they may refer you to a nearby hospitalfor an ultrasound scan to confirm the diagnosis or assess the e

Surgery for a hernia

There are two main ways surgery for hernias can be carried out: open surgery where one cut is made to allow the surgeon to push the lump back into the abdomen keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery thi

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