Open vs. Laparoscopic Surgery: Which Is Better For Treating Inguinal Hernia?

Hernia is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. However, Indian men are prone to this disease because of less genetic muscle mass. According to the report published by “The Economic Times” in 2023, 15% of the total 5000 individuals with abdominal pain and groin swellings were reported to have been suffering from hernia.

Patients tend to overlook treatment of hernia for months and even for years, thinking that it will heal on its own. But that’s not the case. Unchecked hernias are far more serious and even prove to be life-threatening.

Surgery is the most effective treatment for painful hernia. It is one of the best ways to get rid of a hernia permanently and the discomfort it brings in. Till now, surgeons mostly considered open surgery for hernia repair. But patients are now curious about laparoscopic surgery as it has become widely popular over the past few years, stated the best laparoscopic surgeon in Kolkata. So, there is this confusion and debate about which approach is the most suitable.

Here we shall compare traditional and laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of inguinal hernia which is also quite prevalent among both men and women.

What Is Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia occurs when a tissue or part of the small intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This condition is extremely painful and the pressure even increases during coughing, sneezing, lifting weights and urinating.

If the bulge becomes extremely painful and is noticeable even when standing, surgery needs to be performed on the abdomen, either open surgery or laparoscopy by the best laparoscopic surgeon in Kolkata.

Now, let’s know which one method is appropriate for you.

Pros And Cons Of The Procedures

There are both advantages and disadvantages of open surgery as well as laparoscopic procedures.

Pros Of Open Surgery

• It is a quick method and can be done under general anaesthesia.
• Mostly suitable for repairing a large hernia

Cons

• Chances of post-surgery pain and wounds
• A longer recovery period
• Complications like bleeding and infection.

Pros Of Laparoscopic Surgery

• Patients can easily return to their normal activities within a few weeks
• Absolutely no pain or discomfort
• A large mesh is placed, thereby giving more strength to the repair

Cons

• Need general anaesthesia
• Suitable for large hernia only if the surgeon is skilled and experienced.

Which Procedure Should You Consider?

The type of surgical intervention which is appropriate will mostly depend on the severity of the inguinal hernia, i.e., the intensity of the pain and how serious is the bulge.

Based on the preferences of both the surgeons and patients, laparoscopic surgery is the preferred one out of the two. If the patient previously had any surgeries, doctors will recommend laparoscopy due to less scarring and pain. If cost and recovery period are a matter of concern, then also laparoscopy is the ideal choice as compared to the traditional method.

There are also certain things of inguinal hernia which are deciding factors of the type of surgery.

1. Laparoscopic surgery is preferred if the hernia is on both sides of the abdomen
2. If you are worried about hernia recurrence, laparoscopy is the best option
3. In case of a large hernia, open surgery is considered depending on the surgeon’s skills.

Wrapping Up

If you or someone you know is suffering from an inguinal hernia, it is important to consult a doctor to know if he performs both procedures and which one you require.

So, are you looking for permanent relief from the pain and discomfort of an inguinal hernia? You can get in touch with us. Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik is the best laparoscopic surgeon in Kolkata with the primary aim of delivering exceptional treatment and best-in-class patient care.