Inguinal/Groin Hernia

What is an Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia occurs in the lower part of the abdomen where a hole or defect occurs in the muscles of the pelvis.  The result of an inguinal hernia is pain and/or swelling experienced in the groin region.  Typically, over time the bulging in the groin area can grow and the swelling under the skin can extend into the scrotum in males and alongside the labia in females. The pain and fullness of inguinal hernias often continues for a few weeks or months and does not improve with rest or physical therapy.

What are the Symptoms of an Inguinal Hernia?

Typically, inguinal hernias present with:

• A bulge or obvious swelling beneath the skin of the groin area. This may disappear when the person lies down and is often tender.

• Difficulty moving and performing certain activities.

• Discomfort or pain when using groin muscles.

• Heavy feeling in the abdomen or groin with straining.

When to Get Help for a Hernia?

If you think you may have an inguinal hernia call our offices and schedule an appointment. If the bulge is persistent, do not wait, call today. Additionally, if you are experiencing pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting, you may have a “strangulated” hernia and it is important to seek medical attention urgently. If left untreated a strangulated hernia can cause life-threatening complications.

What Treatment is Recommended?

Surgery is traditionally recommended for all inguinal hernias. This helps to avoid complications, including when the intestines become lodged and stuck within the hernia. This can cut off the blood supply to the intestine and if that condition is not urgently addressed the intestine could die. 

Our practice employs laparoscopic techniques whenever possible to repair inguinal hernias. During a laparoscopic procedure, several small incisions are made in the skin, and thin tube-like devices called trochars are placed through the muscles of the abdominal wall so that long narrow instruments and a camera can be passed into the person’s body.  The hernia can then be clearly visualized and adequately repaired from the inside.  The small incisions and minimal disruption of the abdominal wall muscles speeds recovery and makes future development of additional hernias less likely.