Information for patients undergoing Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

A hernia is a weakness in the abdominal wall.  Traditionally this was repaired with a large incision and placement of a synthetic mesh between the abdominal wall and the skin to cover the weakness.  This repair can now be performed with three small cuts using the operating telescope (laparoscope) to place a mesh inside the abdominal wall.  This modern operation is less painful and allows quicker return to normal activities.

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Some of the risks of laparoscopic hernia repair are shared by all operations.  These problems occur rarely and include heart attack, stroke, clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolus), significant bleeding, infection and injury to the bowel.  There are risks that are specific to laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.  About 1% of hernias repaired with the laparoscopic technique will recur.  Rarely (about one in every thousand patients) there can be an injury to the bladder, spermatic cord or sensory nerve. Sometimes the hernia cannot be repaired with the laparoscope and an old-fashioned open repair is necessary.  Occasionally patients have difficulty passing urine after the operation. 

You will be able to go home after the operation once you are comfortable.  This is usually on the day of the operation.  Try not to drink too much fluid for the first 24 hours.  Do not drive for at least two days.  Do not partake in heavy lifting (nothing heavier than a bucket of water), strenuous exercise or return to work for 2 weeks.  I am happy to provide you with a medical certificate if required. 

It is not uncommon for patients to develop swelling and bruising in the groin or scrotum a few days after the operation.  This is normal and requires no treatment.  I would like to see you in the rooms about four weeks after your operation.  If you have any problems come to hospital, see your GP or give me a call in the rooms (Ph. 62821200).