Hernia Repair

Hernia Repair / Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Q&A

What is a hernia and what causes it?

A hernia occurs when a bowel or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This can be caused by increased pressure in the abdomen from heavy lifting, straining, or an inherent weakness in the tissue.

What are the symptoms?

While some hernias cause no symptoms, others may present as a visible bulge under the skin, often accompanied by pain or discomfort, especially when lifting, bending, or engaging in physical activity. Swelling or tenderness at the site is also common. Sometimes a hernia may present as a bowel obstruction.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

If you notice a bulge or experience discomfort, it’s important to consult your doctor for a proper evaluation. Hernias require surgical repair to prevent complications. Whenever appropriate, Dr. Marcus recommends robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci® system, a cutting-edge platform that allows for greater precision, less tissue trauma, minimal scarring, and faster recovery. In some cases, other approaches may be discussed.

What are the most common types of hernias?

  • Inguinal Hernia: Occurs in the groin area where tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles.
  • Abdominal Wall Hernia: May result from a congenital defect or poor healing after surgery, allowing abdominal contents to protrude.
  • Hiatal Hernia: Happens when the upper stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Common causes include obesity, pregnancy, or persistent straining.
  • Epigastric Hernia: Forms between the breastbone and belly button; usually small and sometimes multiple in number.

Why choose robotic surgery for hernia repair?

Using the da Vinci Surgical System, Dr. Marcus can perform hernia repairs through small, precise incisions. This minimally invasive approach results in less pain, quicker recovery, and minimal scarring. As a leader in robotic surgery, Dr. Marcus offers patients expert care with the most advanced technology available. Dr. Marcus has been performing robotic surgery for over 15 years, with over 2,500 procedures to date.