An inguinal hernia is located around the soft tissue of the groin and is the most common hernia. Typically the membrane lining the abdominal cavity or part of the intestine will squeeze through a weak point in the abdominal groin muscles. Most inguinal hernias are caused by an opening in the muscle wall that did not properly close before birth, leaving a weak spot in the stomach muscles. Therefore, once pressure is applied to this area it will cause a hernia.

Constant lifting, coughing, or straining will increase the probability of developing a hernia. Men are more likely to develop hernias; additionally, overweight individuals are at higher risk. Some inguinal hernias do not cause any symptoms at all and will often only be discovered at a routine medical exam.

Visible Inguinal hernia signs and symptoms include:

• Bulge on either side of the pubic bone
• Burning, gurgling, or aching sensation surrounding bulge
• Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting
• Heavy or dragging sensation in the groin
• Weakness or uncomfortable pressure in the groin

Dangers of an inguinal hernia include:

• Pressure to surrounding tissues – Without surgery, most inguinal hernias will enlarge over time. In men, large hernias may extend into the scrotum, inducing pain and swelling.
• Incarcerated hernia – This occurs when a loop of intestine is trapped at the weak point in the abdominal wall, leading to obstructed bowel, severe pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and the inability to pass gas.

DO NOT wait for these symptoms to occur as immediate emergency medical attention is required. Hernias should be treated earlier rather than later.

Hernia Treatment

Surgery is generally the only hernia treatment option, and it does not have to be considered the worst option. Dr. Alexander’s hernia procedures are not only successful but convenient as well, as patients will be allowed to return home the same day! Hernias are repaired with either traditional open cut or minimally invasive techniques. Minimally invasive surgery offers a faster recovery time and patients will be able to return to work and normal activities with decreased pain sooner than those who undergo open surgery.

Advanced Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery is the most advanced minimally invasive option for patients facing abdominal or gastrointestinal surgery. The da Vinci System features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and special wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human wrist. As a result, da Vinci robotic surgery enables your doctor to operate with enhanced vision and precision.

Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Minimally invasive laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair implements advanced robotic surgical equipment. Small incisions are made just below the navel and the abdomen, and then inflated in order for Dr. Magdi Alexander to see the abdominal organs. A thin, lighted scope known as the laparoscope is inserted through the small incisions and used to repair hernias by applying mesh over the defect to fortify the weakened muscle wall. Dr. Magdi Alexander must approve all patients for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair, as this surgical method may not be appropriate for all cases.

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