Treatment of Inguinal Hernia

Treatment of inguinal hernia in Israel is conducted by leading surgeons at the “Herzliya Medical Center” private hospital which is the largest medical center specializing in all types of operations in Israel, with the most modern, highly effective and safe methods.

One of the outstanding successes of HMC is the lowest percentage of postoperative complications.

Inguinal hernia

An inguinal hernia is caused by the weakness of the ligamentous apparatus of the abdominal wall at the inguinal canal.

It is the failure of the abdominal wall leading to the protrusion of the contents of the abdomen (usually bowel loops) through the hernial ring that forms a subcutaneous pouch, which often causes pain. The anatomical features of the structure of the inguinal canal contribute to the fact that inguinal hernia occurs predominantly in men. The disease can be congenital or develop over a lifetime. Aggravating factors of inguinal hernia in the presence of an anatomical predisposition are lifting weights, weight gain, pain and swelling around the testicles. In women, an inguinal hernia can occur during pregnancy due to an increase in intra-abdominal pressure.

Symptoms and complications of inguinal hernia

Small inguinal hernias occur with minor symptoms. Patients complain of a seal and an asymmetrical protrusion in the groin area, provoked by coughing or physical activity. In the rest position, the contents of the hernia sac retreat in the right physiological position. Large inguinal hernias are characterized by the constant presence of abdominal contents in the hernial sac, a feeling of discomfort and pain. A dangerous complication of hernia is the infringement of bowel loops. An incarcerated hernia can cause intestinal obstruction, acute circulatory disorders section bowel necrosis, the perforation and development of severe peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal cavity). A strangulated inguinal hernia is an urgent surgical condition requiring emergency surgery for health reasons.

Diagnosis and indications for surgery for inguinal hernia in Israel

An inguinal hernia is diagnosed by a qualified surgeon, based on objective data and the medical history of the patient. In case of need, for the purpose of diagnosis, radiographic methods are used; a panoramic picture of the abdomen, contrast X-ray, CT, and ultrasound.

In the Surgical Department of “Herzliya Medical Center” operations for inguinal hernia are performed for the following indications:

• Pain caused by an inguinal hernia
• An increase in the amount of the hernia sac and in the risk of infringement
• Impossibility of spontaneous reposition of the hernia
• A complication of inguinal hernia (pinch)

Surgical treatment of inguinal hernia in Israel

“Herzliya Medical Center” holds all kinds of operations for inguinal hernia. Patients with an uncomplicated disease are operated by the laparoscopic method by means of superimposing the joints or with the use of a synthetic implant – a grid that prevents protrusion of the abdominal contents into the hernial sac. If necessary, a plastic inguinal canal is performed. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis or short-term hospitalization. There are cases of surgical treatment of a complicated or a strangulated inguinal hernia which is performed on an emergency basis and often requires the use of the open classic technique. Timely access to experts prevents the chance of complications and eliminates the need for an emergency intervention.

Postoperative period and recovery

Depending on the overall condition of the patient, one can be discharged on the day of the surgery or after a brief observation in the surgical department. On discharge, patients receive detailed guidance on the applicability of anesthetic drugs and the need for post-operative care. After 7-10 days stitches are removed. The lack of a wide surgical incision after laparoscopic surgery ensures minimal discomfort and promotes early rehabilitation. It is recommended to limit physical activity during the first month after surgery.

A multidisciplinary team at Herzliya Medical Center provides comprehensive care to patients in the recovery period. An unparalleled level of service, a comfortable and professional staff of the Israeli hospital promotes a speedy recovery.