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.
Surgery
Traditional surgery is performed by making a small incision at the site of the hernia. The muscles are repaired to close the weakened area and a mesh patch may be applied to provide additional support to the abdomenal wall.
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair involves making an incision below the belly-button. A special ballooned instrument is then inserted in the space between the abdominal muscles and the lining of the abdomen. 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.
