Currently, there are three common types of hernia repair surgeries

1. Traditional Hernia Repair Surgery: Involves a 4 to 5 centimeter incision at the inguinal area, separating the hernia sac, and subsequently stitching and fixing a hernia mesh.

2. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Surgery: Dr. Wu performs a single-incision laparoscopic hernia repair, making a 1.5 centimeter incision below the umbilicus, through which all laparoscopic instruments are inserted and utilized. The entire procedure takes place outside the peritoneum and does not affect the internal organs within the abdomen.

3. Da Vinci Robotic Assisted Hernia Repair Surgery: An advanced form of laparoscopic hernia surgery utilizing three small incisions to allow the robotic arms to operate within the body. With 3D laparoscopic imaging and precise manipulation by robotic arms, this approach offers enhanced visibility and meticulous tissue dissection, enabling complex hernia repairs. Similar to the laparoscopic approach, the procedure occurs outside the peritoneum and does not affect the abdominal organs.

Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery

1. Avoiding Missed Diagnoses

It enables the simultaneous examination and management of associated femoral or obturator hernias. Clinically, distinguishing between these hernias and inguinal hernias can be challenging. Laparoscopic surgery allows for more precise confirmation of hernia locations and their treatment.

2. Simultaneous Bilateral Treatment

Using a single small incision, both left and right-sided hernias can be treated in one surgery. Conversely, traditional surgery for bilateral hernias results in postoperative pain on both sides. Some patients initially notice a hernia on one side but may later discover a bilateral issue during surgery. Laparoscopic approaches allow for simultaneous management, preventing subsequent hernia occurrences.

3. Repairing Recurrent Hernias

After a previous traditional hernia repair surgery, if a hernia recurs, further surgical intervention may be necessary. Re-operating through the same incision should overcome tissue adhesions and unhealthy tissue condition, making hernia repair challenging. Laparoscopic surgery offers a different approach to repair inguinal hernias, increasing the chances of successful repair.

4. Substantial Reduction in Pain

Traditional surgery incisions are about 4 to 5 centimeters, whereas Dr. Wu’s single-incision laparoscopic surgery results in just a 1.5-centimeter incision, significantly reducing postoperative pain. Most patients can resume normal activities the same night as the surgery. Additionally, postoperative chronic pain is also substantially reduced.

5. Handling Complex Hernias with Da Vinci Robotic System

Da Vinci robotic hernia repair surgery, an advanced form of laparoscopic surgery, also accelerates postoperative recovery and reduces chronic pain. With 3D laparoscopic imaging and precise robotic arm manipulation, visibility is enhanced, allowing for more meticulous tissue dissection. In cases of multiple recurrences of inguinal hernias where tissue adhesion complicates surgery, robotic system can help.

Conclusion: The advancements in medical technology, whether in “single-incision laparoscopic hernia repair” or “Da Vinci robotic assisted hernia repair,” significantly reduce patient pain while effectively addressing inguinal hernias.