A hernia is the protrusion of an organ or fatty tissue from inside the abdomen through a weak point in the abdominal wall. It does not heal on its own, enlarges over time, and the only lasting solution is surgical repair. There are two main options, open mesh repair and the laparoscopic method; the keyhole approach offers a clear advantage in bilateral and recurrent hernias.
- Inguinal hernia
- Umbilical hernia
- Incisional hernia
- Abdominal wall hernias
- Recurrent hernias
- Hiatal hernia
- Femoral hernia
- Emergency surgery for incarcerated hernia
A hernia forms when abdominal contents push outward through a weakness in the abdominal wall. Inguinal hernias account for roughly three quarters of all hernias and are markedly more common in men than in women.
Types of Hernia
- Inguinal hernia: The most common type. A swelling that becomes prominent on standing and disappears on lying down is the typical finding.
- Umbilical hernia: Forms around the navel; associated with pregnancy, excess weight and raised intra-abdominal pressure.
- Incisional hernia: Develops at the scar of a previous operation. Repair is technically more demanding.
- Recurrent hernia: A previously repaired hernia that has returned. Scar tissue from the earlier operation calls for a different approach.
- Hiatal hernia: Part of the stomach slides through the opening in the diaphragm into the chest; often accompanied by reflux.
Why Is Surgery Necessary?
A hernia does not heal on its own and enlarges over time. A truss or support belt does not treat it; it provides only temporary support and can damage tissue with prolonged use.
Emergency: Incarceration of the hernia contents with loss of blood supply is life-threatening. Go to an emergency department without delay if the swelling becomes hard and cannot be pushed back, if you develop sudden severe pain, redness or a bluish discolouration of the overlying skin, nausea, vomiting or inability to pass wind.
Surgical Methods
Open mesh repair (Lichtenstein)
Through an incision over the hernia the sac is identified, returned into the abdomen, and the weak area is reinforced with a synthetic mesh. The use of mesh has markedly reduced recurrence rates. The fact that it can be performed under local or spinal anaesthesia is an advantage in patients with high cardiac or respiratory risk.
Laparoscopic repair (TEP and TAPP)
Through three small openings the hernia is repaired from within and the mesh is placed on the inner surface of the abdominal wall. The main advantages are:
- Less pain after surgery and a faster return to work
- In bilateral hernias, repair in a single session without extra incisions
- In recurrent hernias, the ability to work without passing through scar tissue from the previous operation
Which method is appropriate is determined by the type and size of the hernia, whether it is one- or two-sided, previous surgery, and the patient's age, occupation and co-existing conditions.
After Surgery
Hernia operations are most often day cases or involve a single overnight stay. Standing up is encouraged on the first day; return to desk-based work takes 2-3 weeks and return to heavy lifting and demanding sport 4-6 weeks. These periods are generally shorter with the laparoscopic method.
The main factors that increase recurrence risk are smoking, excess weight, chronic cough, constipation and lifting heavy weights too early.
Two Techniques for Inguinal, Umbilical and Recurrent Hernias
Hernia surgery is listed as a distinct service on both the hospital profile and the doctor platforms: "Hernia surgery; inguinal and incisional hernias, recurrent hernias (by laparoscopic and standard methods)".
- Over his career, more than 1,000 laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs
- Graft and mesh repair of inguinal, umbilical, abdominal wall and incisional hernias
- Laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery (TEP and TAPP approaches)
- Laparoscopic Solid Organ Surgery Course, Gazi University, Ankara (2011)
Consultations and operations are carried out at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci has practised in Mersin since 2010. Patients travelling from Mersin and neighbouring provinces can book via WhatsApp.
Book on WhatsAppCan a hernia resolve without surgery?
No. The opening in the abdominal wall does not close on its own and the hernia enlarges over time. A truss or support belt provides only temporary support and is not a treatment.
Does the mesh cause problems in the body?
The synthetic meshes used in hernia repair have been in use for decades and are well tolerated. Over time your own tissue grows into the mesh and strengthens the area.
I have hernias on both sides. Do I need two operations?
No. With the laparoscopic method both sides can be repaired in the same session without additional incisions. Bilateral hernia is one of the situations where the keyhole approach offers the clearest advantage.
Consultation and Appointments in Mersin
For symptoms within Hernia Surgery you can book an appointment at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Mezitli / Mersin, Turkey, weekdays 09:00-17:00.
WhatsApp: +90 542 236 05 33Disclaimer. This page is provided for general information only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or a treatment recommendation, and it is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis and treatment by a physician. The content is not tailored to any individual and is not intended as advertising. Which method is suitable for you can only be determined after examination and the necessary investigations. Consult your own doctor about any decision concerning your health.