Hi, have you decided to undergo an inguinal hernia surgery? Then, you would have had this question at least once. “Which surgery is the best option for inguinal hernia, open or laparoscopic?”
It is normal for you to wonder which option you should consider and which is the best for you. So, to make things clear to you, we are going to discuss what the two procedures entail and how you can choose the right one for you. Read till the end to know more.
Which type of surgery is best for inguinal hernia?
There are two types of hernia surgeries that can be performed to treat inguinal hernias: open hernia surgery and laparoscopic hernia surgery.
The type of surgery you undergo will be based on your condition, the fee you are comfortable with, and the recovery time you prefer. Your doctor will examine all these conditions and determine the best procedure for you.
Before deciding which is best for you, understand what each procedure involves.
An open hernia surgery is a traditional surgical procedure where an incision is made in the groin near the hernia site. The hernia is repaired, and the skin is stitched back together.
Laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves making small incisions around the hernia site and operating it by inserting a camera and small instruments.
How do surgeons decide which type of surgery to perform?
Both open and laparoscopic hernia surgeries are standard methods a patient can undergo to treat their inguinal hernia. One is not better than the other. It is your condition that determines the best option for you.
Below are some factors that doctors consider before choosing the right surgery method for your inguinal hernia.
- Your age
- The type of inguinal hernia (direct, indirect, or femoral)
- The size of your hernia (small or large)
- Location of your hernia
- If you had a previous failed hernia surgery
- Your overall health condition
- Your muscle tone (if you have weak or strong muscles)
Your doctor will consider all these before choosing a surgery method. So, if you visit a doctor for hernia repair, don’t go with your mind already set on a surgery method. The method you want may not be suitable for your condition.
Allow your doctor to assess your condition and let them suggest the right method for you. You can share your concerns with them and discuss the best option.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of open hernia surgery?
| Advantages of Open Hernia Surgery | Disadvantages of Open Hernia Surgery |
|---|---|
|
Quick procedure performed within an hour |
Risk of chronic groin pain after surgery |
|
Less expensive than laparoscopic surgery |
Longer recovery time |
|
Can be performed under spinal or local anesthesia (good option for high-risk patients) |
|
What are the advantages and disadvantages of laparoscopic surgery?
| Advantages of laparoscopic surgery | Disadvantages laparoscopic surgery |
|---|---|
|
Minimally invasive surgery, so recovery time is shorter |
More expensive than open hernia surgery |
|
Lesser pain after surgery |
Performed under general anesthesia (may not be suitable for all patients) |
|
Lesser risk of touching or disturbing the nerve in the groin |
|
How to choose the right hernia surgeon?
When you wish to undergo a hernia surgery, the surgeon you choose to consult is as important as the type of surgery you wish to undergo. You need to choose an expert hernia surgeon with ample experience handling similar cases with a high success rate.
Below are some factors you need to consider before choosing your hernia surgeon.
- Check whether the surgeon is qualified.
- Check their experience. Look into the surgeon’s experience and expertise in handling hernia surgeries.
- Check past patient reviews and testimonials.
- Check the hospital’s location and see if it is easily accessible in case of emergency.
- Check the surgery cost and other payment options offered by the doctor.
Are all surgeons able to do both open and laparoscopic procedures?
No, all surgeons do not perform both open and laparoscopic procedures. Most surgeons perform open procedures, but only some perform laparoscopic surgeries.
Before choosing your surgeon, check whether they perform both surgeries, which one they have performed the most, and which has the highest success rate.
Conclusion
In terms of success rate, both surgeries have been shown to provide equal success rates till date. So, whether you choose to undergo open surgery or laparoscopic surgery, ensure the method you choose is the best one for your body condition and won’t lead to any complications.
FAQs
Robotic surgery is an advanced technology surgical procedure that has been gaining popularity in recent times. It is a minimally invasive procedure where your hernia surgeon will sit at the console and operate the robotic hands to perform the surgery.
Both surgical procedures are good surgical methods. Whether you should do an open or laparoscopic procedure depends on your body and hernia condition. Your doctor will assess your condition and determine the best surgery method for you.
Below are some factors that doctors consider before choosing the right surgery method for your inguinal hernia.
- Your age
- The type of inguinal hernia (direct, indirect, or femoral)
- The size of your hernia (small or large)
- Location of your hernia
- If you had a previous failed hernia surgery
- Your overall health condition
- Your muscle tone (if you have weak or strong muscles)
