A hernia is a weakness in your muscle through which fatty tissue or part of your bowel tries to come out particularly when you strain your abdominal wall in any way like coughing or sneezing, straining on the toilet, lifting heavy objects etc. The ‘lump’ which you feel is called the hernia and you can usually push it back in with gentle pressure.
Groin Hernias, appearing at the top of inner thigh or base of the scrotum in men are by far the commonest. They are of two types:
- Inguinal
- Femoral
Inguinal hernias are most common although femoral hernias per se are commoner in women.
Groin hernias invariably need repairing, not only due to the symptoms they cause (‘dragging’ pain or dull aches) but also the potential risks of obstruction and or strangulation of the hernia. The part of the bowel in the hernia can get obstructed and even worse get strangulated (lose its blood supply) and this makes the situation an emergency requiring an urgent operation.
Not all hernias however need repairing but it is best to discuss this with your surgeon who after taking appropriate history including your medical history and after examining you will advise on the best course of action.
Treatment for groin hernias is either:
- Open surgery
- Laparoscopic or key-hole surgery
Both the procedures involve repair using a plastic mesh which gives the repair its strength. Both procedures have their own indications, advantages and disadvantages.
Mr Rai offers consultation and both open and key-hole surgery for hernias at BMI Alexandra Hospital, Spire Regency Hospital, Macclesfield, the Christie clinic and the 52 Alderley Road, Wilmslow.
Mr Rai will discuss the most suitable surgical option for your hernia, risks and complications involved, post-operative recovery and follow up.