An inguinal hernia is a hole in the abdominal muscle wall at the groin level. It is one of the most common types of hernias, especially among men. According to Dr. Stéphane Servajean, a specialist in obesity surgery, this condition requires surgical intervention for proper treatment.
Understanding Inguinal Hernia
The hole in the abdominal muscle wall allows the peritoneum, which surrounds the intestines, to protrude through the opening. Sometimes, a portion of the intestines can also pass through and become “strangled” within the hole, leading to severe complications if left untreated.
Surgical Treatment
According to Dr. Stéphane, the treatment for an inguinal hernia is surgical and aims to close the hole in the muscle wall. Here are the main methods:
1. Raphy
– This involves sewing the muscle wall to close the hole. However, this method is rarely used in adults due to a high recurrence rate, ranging from 20% to 40% over 10 years.
2. Prosthetic Reinforcement
– This technique involves reinforcing the muscle wall with a synthetic material prosthesis, resembling a thin veil. The recurrence rate with this method is much lower, about 2% over 10 years.
Surgical Techniques
To treat an inguinal hernia, two main surgical approaches are possible:
1. Open Surgery
– An incision of about 7 cm is made in the groin area to access and repair the hernia.
2. Laparoscopy (or Video Surgery)
– This minimally invasive technique requires three small incisions ranging from 5 mm to 12 mm. It allows for faster recovery and less postoperative pain. However, certain conditions must be met for laparoscopy to be feasible, and it is not always possible.
Inguinal hernia is a common condition, especially among men, that requires surgical intervention to avoid complications. The choice of surgical technique depends on many factors, including patient preferences and surgeon recommendations. Dr. Stéphane Servajean, with his expertise in obesity surgery, emphasizes the importance of a thorough evaluation to determine the best approach for each patient.
