A inguinal hernia occurs when the bowel protrudes through a weak point or tear in
the thin muscular wall that holds the abdominal organs in place. In men, a hernia
can develop at the point where the spermatic cord passes out of the abdomen into
the scrotum. A direct inguinal hernia creates a bulge in the groin area, and an
indirect hernia descends into the scrotum. Inguinal hernias occur less often in
women than men. Inguinal hernias can now be repaired laparoscopically through a small incision below
the belly button.
Surgery
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair involves making an incision below the belly button.
A special ballooned instrument is then inserted in the space between the abdominal
muscles and the lining of the abdomen. Two smaller incisions provide a passage for
other specialized surgical instruments. The contents of the hernia are reduced and
the defect is repaired by inserting a piece of mesh to patch the hernia defect.