How do you treat hernias?

There are multiple techniques for repairing hernias of the abdominal wall.  We provide a tailored approach to your hernia repair, as not all hernias or patients are the same.  Hernia repairs can be performed as an Open repair (larger incision) or as a Minimally-invasive repair (multiple smaller incisions) using laparoscopic or robotic-assisted equipment.  Each technique has pros and cons, and a thorough discussion with your surgeon will help determine the best approach for you and your hernia.  

Mesh reinforcement

Mesh is commonly used to repair the vast majority of hernias, as numerous studies have shown reduced rates of hernia recurrence with mesh reinforcement.  Many ventral hernia repairs use a combination of suture to close the hernia, along with mesh to reinforce the area and create a more durable repair.  Some small hernias might be repaired with suture only, without mesh.  Inguinal hernias behave differently, and typically these are bridged with hernia mesh, avoiding suturing of the hernia defects.  Tissue-only repair is not commonly performed in the United States. 

What is mesh?

Meshes are typically flat sheets of knit or woven plastic fibers that look similar to window screens.  They have several functions, including acting as a barrier to prevent bowel or tissue from pushing through the hernia defect, they stabilize the newly closed hernia, and they help promote the growth of strong tissue. There are a wide variety of sizes, thickness, and materials used to construct hernia mesh.  

As with any implantable prosthetic device (e.g. knee or hip implant, pacemaker, cardiac valve, vascular graft, etc), there are potential risks with the use of mesh.  For example, permanent implanted devices can become infected and might require another surgery to remove the infected implant.  They don’t necessarily cause the infection, but if they do become contaminated or infected, the body cannot clear infections from foreign bodies as well as your own tissue, and they can harbor bacteria. 

Read the American Hernia Society – Mesh Advisory statement
Read Columbia University Hernia Center’s statement on hernia mesh

Sample consent form

Like other medical interventions, surgery and anesthesia carry potential risk.  While the vast majority of patients do very well with elective hernia repair, it is important to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives of surgical repair with your surgeon.  By being healthy you reduce risks associated with surgical procedures.  Therefore, it is important that you maintain a healthy diet, regularly exercise, STOP smoking, and see your physician(s) to manage medical problems.  

Learn more about what a hernia is

Learn more about pre- and post-operative care for a hernia