Specialists in laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery

Not all inguinal hernias require immediate surgery, nor should they all be repaired using the same technique. The decision is influenced by the symptoms, the type of hernia, whether it affects one or both sides, any previous operations, and the individual characteristics of each patient.

At the Abdominal Wall Unit of the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital in Madrid, the assessment begins by confirming the need for surgery. From there, the team determines which type of repair is most appropriate and whether a laparoscopic approach might offer advantages in that particular case.

Firstly: confirm that surgery is indicated

An inguinal hernia does not automatically require immediate surgery. The decision depends on the symptoms, how the hernia is progressing, its impact on day-to-day activities and the clinical characteristics of each patient.

The assessment begins with a targeted physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical and surgical history. Where a better understanding of the anatomy of the defect is required, or where there are special circumstances, the assessment may be supplemented with imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans.

The aim is to establish clearly whether surgery is advisable, when it should be performed, and which type of repair is most appropriate. This individualised approach forms part of the care model at Memorial’s Abdominal Wall Unit.

How we decide which technique to use

Once the surgical indication has been confirmed, the next step is to select the surgical approach. The team assesses whether the hernia is a first-time occurrence or a recurrence, whether it affects one side only or is bilateral, its size and anatomical characteristics, any previous operations, and the patient’s general condition.

These factors help us decide between an open repair and a minimally invasive approach. The choice also takes into account aspects relevant to everyday life, such as the discomfort caused by the hernia, the patient’s usual level of activity and the expected course of recovery.

It is not, therefore, a matter of applying a single technique systematically. The repair is tailored to the hernia and the individual.

How we perform laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

When a laparoscopic approach is indicated, the repair is carried out via small incisions through which a camera and surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon works from the back of the groin area, identifies the defect and carries out the repair by reinforcing the weakened area.

In most procedures, a mesh is used to provide stable reinforcement of the abdominal wall. The details of the repair are tailored to the anatomy of the hernia and the chosen approach.

The aim is to achieve a secure repair using a minimally invasive technique where this offers benefits for the patient.

A unit specialising in abdominal wall surgery

Inguinal hernia surgery forms part of a unit specifically dedicated to the treatment of hernias and abdominal wall defects.

It treats everything from routine inguinal hernias to recurrences and more complex defects. Its work encompasses both open surgery and various minimally invasive techniques, with the approach selected on a case-by-case basis.

The Unit forms part of the , which is organised into areas with specific specialisms to concentrate expertise and surgical planning.

Dr Jorge Martín Gil

He is head of the Abdominal Wall Unit and a specialist in General and Digestive Surgery. His practice specifically includes abdominal wall surgery and minimally invasive reconstruction of the abdominal wall, as part of a surgical programme characterised by individualised planning and the use of minimally invasive techniques where indicated.

The existence of a dedicated unit means that the decision is not limited to choosing between ‘open surgery’ or ‘laparoscopy’. The aim is to determine what repair the patient requires and which technique is best suited to carrying it out.

Second opinion on inguinal hernia surgery

If a surgical plan has already been proposed, a specialist second opinion can help you understand why a particular technique is recommended and whether there are other options available.

The Unit can review the diagnosis, medical history and available test results to assess whether a laparoscopic approach is appropriate or whether an open repair would be more suitable.

This assessment can be particularly useful in cases of a bilateral hernia, a hernia that has recurred following a previous operation, a history of abdominal or pelvic surgery, or when there is uncertainty regarding the choice between different types of repair.

The aim is to understand the available options and their implications before making a decision about surgery.