Hernia Surgery

Inguinal Hernias Epigastric & Umbilical Hernias Other Hernias Sportsman's Hernia (Gilmore's Groin)

Inguinal Hernias

The commonest type of hernia, often caused by straining (coughing, heavy lifting, exercise). They are characterised by a swelling in the groin, which can disappear when lying flat. These hernias can also present with pain, and there is an association with Gilmore's groin (sportsman's hernia, see below). Surgical repair is by an open or laparoscopic technique, both of which techniques I perform, allowing me to tailor the surgery to each individual patient. I recommend the use of mesh for these types of hernia. Laparoscopic repairs are particularly recommended for recurrent or bilateral hernias.

Further information on hernias:

britishherniasociety.org/groin-hernia-and-you
britishherniasociety.org/british-hernia-society-mesh-safety-leaflet
spirehealthcare.com/ our-treatments/body-map-and-a-z/a-z-treatments/hernia-surgery

Epigastric & Umbilical Hernias

These are also common, and present as a lump in the upper part of the abdomen. They can be unsightly, and cause discomfort. Surgical repair is usually straight forward, and depending on the size may involve a mesh to reinforce the tissues.

Other Hernias

Include femoral, incisional, and Spigelian hernias. Treatment can be performed with laparoscopic or open surgery; I am happy to discuss the different options for treatment, and the pros and cons of each procedure.

Sportsman's Hernia (Gilmore's Groin or Inguinal Disruption)

This condition can be very disruptive, particularly if you do a lot of sport and exercise. Sportsman's hernia refers to pain within the groin, often coming on after exercise, and can be caused by a number of different pathophysiological conditions; sometimes it is associated with an inguinal hernia, but in other patients there may be no actual hernia. It is caused by the large forces transmitted through the groin, as a number of muscle groups (abdominals, hip flexors, and adductors) meet within this area. Treatment initially involves assessment, investigation with an ultrasound and sometimes MRI, and physiotherapy. Surgery can be effective if more conservative approaches fail, and can be performed laparoscopically or with an open technique.