Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute
General Surgeons located in Berwyn, IL, Elmhurst, IL & La Grange, IL
What is a hernia?
A hernia occurs when fat or part of the intestines pushes through a hole in the abdominal wall muscles. This results in a visible abdominal bulge that may be swollen, painful and tender to the touch. Some people with hernias don’t even realize that they have one. Heavy lifting or lifting improperly can often be to blame for hernias. Those who are overweight or obese are also more at risk for a hernia.
Does a hernia need to be repaired?
A hernia will not get better on its own. In fact, it will usually just get bigger. Over time, blood flow to the intestines can be compromised or mechanical obstruction of the intestines can also occur. This is why it’s important that you seek treatment right away if you’re dealing with a hernia.
How does robotic hernia surgery work?
Robotic hernia surgery, or laparoscopic repair, is different from traditional surgery in that it is far less invasive. Instead of making a large incision in the abdomen, robotic and laparoscopic surgery makes it possible to repair the hernia through small incisions, while also offering our surgeons better dexterity and range of movement thanks to robotic technology. The result is more precise and more durable repair.
What is the recovery process after robotic or laparoscopic hernia surgery?
Since robotic and advanced laparoscopic technology makes it possible to perform this surgery through small incisions, the recovery time is far faster, and the post-surgical pain and discomfort are more minimal than with traditional hernia surgery. People who undergo laparoscopic or robotic hernia surgery need fewer prescription painkillers, report less pain, experience fewer complications and recover in about 1-2 weeks (rather than the typical 4-6 weeks with traditional hernia surgery).
Inguinal hernias
These occur in your inguinal region or the upper groin area. In males, sometimes they can extend down into the scrotum.
Ventral or incisional hernias
These hernias can develop anywhere on the abdominal wall where an incision from a prior surgery was made, most often in the midline or of the abdomen.