Forsyth Medical Center 
Hernia
Inguinal Hernia
| Inguinal hernias can now be repaired laparoscopicaly through a small incision below the navel. |
An inguinal hernia occurs when the bowel protrudes through a weak point or tear in the thin muscular wall that holds the abdominal organs in place. In men, a hernia can develop at the point where the spermatic cord passes out of the abdomen into the scrotum. A direct inguinal hernia creates a bulge in the groin area, and an indirect hernia descends into the scrotum. Inguinal hernias occur less often in women than men.
Causes of Inguinal Hernia
Some common causes of an inguinal hernia include the following:
- Failure for the inguinal canal to close (in newborns)
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Heavy lifting
- Straining to pass stool
Symptoms of inguinal hernia
Below are common symptoms associated with an inguinal hernia:
- Lump in the groin near the thigh
- Pain in the groin
- Partial or complete blockage of the intestine (in more severe cases)
Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair involves making an incision below the navel. Two smaller incisions allow a passage for other specialized surgical instruments. The contents of the hernia are reduced and the defect is repaired by inserting a piece of mesh to patch the hernia defect.
Open Hernia Repair
An open hernia repair is done through a small incision in the groin where the hernia and its contents are reduced and repaired. The defect is repaired by inserting a piece of mesh to patch the hernia defect.
