Hernia Surgery: When Is Treatment Needed and What Are the Options?
- Feb 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 2
A hernia occurs when tissue or intestine pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall. Hernias do not heal on their own and may gradually enlarge over time.
Common Types of Hernia
Inguinal (groin)
Femoral
Umbilical
Incisional (previous surgical scars)
Ventral and complex abdominal wall hernias
When Is Hernia Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is considered when a hernia:
Causes pain or discomfort
Interferes with daily activities
Is increasing in size
Carries a risk of obstruction or strangulation
Some small, asymptomatic hernias may be monitored, but this decision should be individualised.
Surgical Options
Hernia repair may be performed using:
Open surgery
Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery
Mesh-based repair, where appropriate
The choice of technique depends on hernia type, size, patient factors, and previous surgery.
Recovery
Most patients return home the same day
Light activity is encouraged
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and hernia complexity
Safety and Outcomes
Hernia surgery is common and effective. Risks and recurrence rates vary and are discussed during consultation to support informed consent.
Risks of an Untreated Hernia
Although some hernias remain stable for long periods, an untreated hernia may progress and carries a risk of acute complications. These events can occur unpredictably and may require urgent medical attention.
Potential complications include incarceration, where the hernia contents become trapped and cannot be reduced, and bowel obstruction, which may present with abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, and inability to pass stool or wind.
A more serious complication is strangulation, where the blood supply to the herniated bowel is compromised. Strangulated hernias represent a surgical emergency and can lead to bowel ischaemia, perforation, and sepsis if not treated promptly.
Emergency hernia surgery carries higher risks than planned elective repair. In some cases, bowel injury or bowel resection may be required, which is associated with increased morbidity, longer hospital stay, and slower recovery. The risk of postoperative complications is also higher in the emergency setting compared with elective surgery.
For further information, please carefully read information leaflets provided and refer to video below.