At Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center, our board-certified general surgeons provide effective hernia treatment to patients throughout Chicago and the surrounding communities. Whether you need laparoscopic hernia repair, robotic hernia surgery, or guidance on next steps, we will develop a personalized plan to help relieve your pain and get you back to the activities you love.
- What Is a Hernia?
- Hernia Symptoms
- Hernia Diagnosis
- Types of Hernias
- Hernia Surgery
- Hernia Surgery Recovery
- Hernia Recurrence
- Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Hernia Treatment
- Risks of Untreated Hernias
- When Hernias Are an Emergency
- Why Choose Us for Hernia Surgery
- Choosing a Hernia Specialist
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia is defined as a weakness or defect in the strong layer of the abdominal wall, which allows the abdominal organs to protrude. Once out of their normal position, these organs can become pinched or twisted. The most common hernia symptoms are pain, nausea, vomiting, and a mass or lump that may come and go. Hernias are commonly caused by previous surgical incisions, but can also occur without a previous surgery.
What Are the Symptoms of a Hernia?
Hernias can create a variety of unpleasant symptoms, which will vary based on the patient’s health and the type of hernia they have developed. Common signs that tend to accompany hernias include the following:
- A lump or bulge in the abdomen or groin
- Pain or discomfort near the bulge
- Difficulty with urination
- Constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
The most common cause of dull, persistent groin pain is strains in the muscle and tendons that cross the hip joint. However, it can also be related to abnormalities within the abdominal wall, such as inguinal hernias of the abdominal rectus muscles and oblique muscles. A physical exam must be performed to determine the exact cause of the groin pain.
How Is a Hernia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a hernia typically begins with a physical examination. In many cases, a doctor can identify a hernia simply by feeling for a bulge in the abdomen or groin, particularly when the patient stands, coughs, or strains. If the diagnosis is unclear or more detail is needed, imaging studies such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be ordered to get a better look at the affected area. Once a hernia is confirmed, your surgeon will review the findings with you and discuss the most appropriate course of treatment based on the type, size, and severity of the hernia.
What Are the Different Types of Hernias?
- Abdominal Wall Hernias
- Hiatal Hernias
- Incisional Hernias
- Groin Hernias
- Sports Hernias (Athletic Pubalgia)
Abdominal Wall (Ventral) Hernias
Hernias in the abdominal wall, also known as ventral hernias, can include epigastric and umbilical hernias. An epigastric hernia develops in the middle of the upper abdomen. An umbilical hernia forms around the navel, and is more common in pregnant women or obese patients.
Hiatal Hernias
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach pushes through an opening in your diaphragm into your chest cavity. This condition can cause symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, and difficulty swallowing. Hiatal hernias are often managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or, in moderate to severe cases, surgical intervention. Specifically, the minimally invasive endoscopic technique can help get patients off antacid medications. The long-term effects of these medications can be problematic for some patients.
Incisional Hernias
Patients who have undergone abdominal surgery in the past can develop an incisional hernia. This can occur immediately after surgery or years later due to the weakened area.
Groin (Inguinal & Femoral) Hernias
Inguinal and femoral hernias occur in the groin. An inguinal hernia is more common in men and develops in the inner crease of the groin. A femoral hernia is located below the groin in the thigh—more specifically, where the femoral artery and vein enter the leg.
Sports Hernias (Athletic Pubalgia)
If an inguinal hernia or other abdominal abnormality is not present, then the condition can often be diagnosed as “athletic pubalgia,” or sports hernia. This occurs when muscles, tendons, or ligaments tear in the lower abdomen or groin. Unfortunately, a sports hernia does not usually heal on its own, so surgery is often the most effective treatment.
What Does Hernia Surgery Involve?
To treat a hernia, surgical repair is required. There are no special exercises that can strengthen the tissues or any medications to take. Repair of the hernia is achieved by closing the defect. A special synthetic material called a “mesh” is commonly utilized in repairing the defect in order to add extra strength. Surgical repair can be performed by using conventional techniques, advanced laparoscopic surgery, or robotic hernia surgery. With the latest minimally invasive techniques, we can repair even a large hernia through tiny incisions. This allows for shorter hospital stays, less post-operative pain and a quicker return to normal activity.
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery
With laparoscopic surgery, several small incisions are used to remove some of the damaged tissue. Instead of a primary repair with stitches, mesh is used to strengthen and reinforce the area, creating a tension-free repair. Laparoscopic surgical techniques make it possible to perform surgery through much smaller openings than those used in conventional surgery. As a result, we do not need to make cuts through the muscle or suture under tension. Because there is no tension on the repair, this helps individuals return to their activities faster and reduces the risk of recurrence of the hernia.
Robotic Hernia Surgery
Robotic hernia surgery is the latest advancement in minimally invasive hernia repair. Using state-of-the-art robotic technology, our surgeons operate through tiny incisions with greater precision and control than traditional techniques allow. The result is less trauma to surrounding tissue, reduced post-operative pain, and a faster return to normal activity. For patients with large, complex, or recurrent hernias, robotic surgery can be an especially effective option.
What Can I Expect in My Recovery from Hernia Surgery?
While some individuals may take a bit longer to recover immediately after surgery, many laparoscopic hernia repair patients can leave the hospital within hours after the procedure. The surgeon evaluates the status of each patient and determines when he or she can be released on a case-by-case basis.
After laparoscopic surgery, a majority of patients experience significantly less pain and are able to get back into normal activity—including sports—much more quickly. Typical recovery time for laparoscopic hernia repair is less than one week, versus up to 4 weeks for conventional open hernia repair.
Will My Hernia Come Back After Treatment?
While hernia treatments, including surgery, are typically effective, it is possible for hernias to return in the future. Factors that can affect whether a hernia may come back include the type of hernia, the surgical method used, and lifestyle factors such as obesity, heavy lifting, diabetes, and smoking. To minimize the risk of recurrence, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions and make any recommended lifestyle changes.
Do All Hernias Require Surgery?
Not all hernias require surgery, as treatment depends on the type, size, and symptoms of the hernia. Some hernias, particularly small or asymptomatic ones, can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding heavy lifting and maintaining a healthy weight. However, hernias that cause pain, grow larger, or lead to complications typically require surgical intervention to prevent serious health issues. Your healthcare provider can determine the best course of action based on your specific condition and overall health.
What Happens if a Hernia Goes Untreated?
If a hernia is not treated — whether with lifestyle changes or surgery — it can lead to several serious complications, regardless of the type. Over time, the hernia can enlarge, causing increased pain and discomfort. Abdominal wall hernias, incisional hernias, and groin hernias can lead to bowel obstruction, which may result in severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Hiatal hernias can cause chronic acid reflux, leading to esophagitis and potential esophageal damage. Sports hernias can result in chronic pain and may limit physical activity. In the most severe cases, untreated hernias can lead to what is known as strangulation, where the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off, causing tissue death and necessitating emergency surgery. Additionally, untreated hernias can impair daily activities and significantly reduce the quality of life.
Is My Hernia an Emergency?
Most hernias are not immediately life-threatening, but certain symptoms require urgent medical attention. Seek emergency care right away if you experience sudden, severe abdominal or groin pain, a hernia bulge that becomes hard or cannot be pushed back in, or nausea, vomiting, and fever alongside hernia symptoms. These can be signs of a strangulated hernia, a condition in which the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, causing tissue death. Strangulation is a surgical emergency. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are urgent, seek medical evaluation right away.
Why Choose Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center?
Our board-certified general surgeons bring extensive experience in hernia repair to patients throughout Chicagoland. We offer the full spectrum of hernia treatment—from watchful waiting and lifestyle management to advanced laparoscopic hernia repair and robotic hernia surgery—and take the time to understand your symptoms, health history, and lifestyle goals before recommending a treatment plan. Our approach to pre- and post-operative care is thorough and personalized, and our surgeons have a strong track record of successful patient outcomes across all types and complexities of hernia repair.
How to Choose a Hernia Specialist
Choosing a qualified and experienced hernia specialist is important for successful treatment and recovery. Look for a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in hernia repair and a good track record of patient outcomes. Additionally, consider the specialist’s approach to pre-operative and post-operative care, as well as their willingness to address your concerns and provide personalized treatment plans.
Contact Us About Hernia Repair
Are you experiencing symptoms that indicate you may have a hernia? Contact our team at Suburban Surgical Care Specialists/Kane Center to schedule an appointment. One of our experienced surgeons will evaluate your concerns to determine if a hernia has developed.