Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery is a minimally invasive technique used to repair hernias in the groin area. Small incisions are made to insert a laparoscope and surgical instruments, allowing the surgeon to place a mesh and reinforce the abdominal wall. This approach results in less pain, quicker recovery, and minimal scarring compared to open surgery.

Cost of laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery is generally higher than traditional methods but offers significant benefits. Many hospitals provide comprehensive packages that cover diagnostic tests, anesthesia, surgery, hospital stay, and follow-up care. Patients benefit from faster return to daily life and lower recurrence rates.

The procedure can be performed using two main approaches: Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) and Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP). Both methods provide strong and durable repair while minimizing complications. The choice of technique depends on the patient’s hernia type, medical history, and surgeon’s expertise.

Recovery after laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery is usually rapid, with most patients resuming light activities within a few days. Full recovery and return to strenuous activities typically occur within 2–4 weeks. Post-operative care includes pain management, avoiding heavy lifting, and regular medical follow-up to ensure safe healing.

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General Surgery Specialist
Who is Dr. Ahmet Bekin?

Dr. Ahmet Bekin, one of the doctors performing hernia surgeries in Istanbul, is specialized in general surgery. Throughout his medical career, he has gained extensive experience in hernia, reflux, and obesity surgery, as well as advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgical applications. He serves his patients with modern approaches such as minimally invasive surgery, laser surgical treatments, single incision surgery (Single Incision Surgery), endocrine and oncological surgery. He is fluent in Turkish, English, and Arabic.

2000 – 2006 Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine
2006 – 2011 Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine (Çapa), Department of General Surgery – Specialization

Certificates

Definition	A minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair performed through small incisions using a camera (laparoscope) and surgical instruments. Typically reinforced with a synthetic mesh.
Indications	Recurrent hernias, bilateral inguinal hernias, patients seeking faster recovery after open repair, those desiring less pain and quicker return to activity.
Advantages	Smaller incisions, less pain, rapid recovery, lower infection risk, ability to repair bilateral hernias in the same session.
Disadvantages	Requires general anesthesia, may be more costly than open surgery, not suitable for some patients (e.g., extensive intra-abdominal adhesions).
Procedure	1. General anesthesia. 2. Small incisions at the umbilicus or lower abdomen. 3. Insufflation with gas. 4. Placement of laparoscope and instruments. 5. Hernia repair with mesh placement. 6. Removal of instruments and closure.
Recovery	Most patients discharged same or next day. Return to normal activities within 1 week. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks.
Possible Complications	Infection, bleeding, recurrence, chronic groin pain, bladder or bowel injury, gas and bloating.
Not Suitable For	Patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia, those with prior major abdominal surgery and severe adhesions, morbidly obese individuals (in some cases).

İçerik

What Is Inguinal Hernia?

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair was developed and popularized in the 1990s as a minimally invasive alternative. Using small incisions and specialized instruments, a synthetic mesh is placed to reinforce the hernia site, supporting natural tissue healing. FDA-approved devices and materials make this approach less traumatic than open surgery. Patients typically recover faster, experience less pain, and have smaller scars, making return to daily life quicker. In experienced hands, it is a safe and effective option.

When Is Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Used?

Laparoscopic repair offers an effective option for certain patients, particularly when:

Bilateral inguinal hernias
Recurrent hernias
Femoral hernias
Severe symptomatic hernias
Patients expecting rapid recovery
Cosmetic concerns and preference for minimally invasive
Candidates for general anesthesia

Laparoscopic surgery not only provides cosmetic and recovery benefits but can also reduce complication risks. Its different anatomical perspective is especially valuable in femoral and recurrent hernias. Prior major abdominal surgeries require careful evaluation before choosing laparoscopy.

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Who Is Not a Candidate for Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair may be contraindicated in some patients. Contraindications are divided into absolute and relative categories.

Absolute contraindications:

Unsuitable for general anesthesia
Strangulated hernias
Intra-abdominal fluid collection

Relative contraindications:

Prior major abdominal surgery
Obesity
Large inguinoscrotal hernias
Anticoagulant therapy
Age over 70
History of radical prostatectomy

Patient health, comorbidities, and hernia characteristics must be carefully assessed to minimize risks and tailor the approach.

How Is Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Performed?

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is performed via TAPP or TEP techniques, requiring meticulous preparation and execution.

Preoperative preparation:

General anesthesia
Supine positioning
Optional Trendelenburg position

Port placement:

: Port used in single-port surgery

TAPP: three ports placed transabdominally
TEP: no peritoneal entry; uses preperitoneal space

Workspace creation:

TAPP: insufflation with CO₂
TEP: balloon dissection of preperitoneal space

Hernia sac management:

Identify sac carefully
Reduce contents into the abdomen
Ligate sac in indirect hernias

Mesh placement:
Mesh preparation for laparoscopic repair

Use ~10×15 cm mesh
Cover weak areas of the groin
Fix with sutures, glue, or tacks

Closure:

TAPP: close peritoneum
TEP: no peritoneal closure needed
Desufflate and remove ports

When performed by experienced surgeons, this method yields lower complication and recurrence rates. Mesh technique varies by surgeon preference. Postoperative care and patient education are critical to recovery.

What Are the Side Effects of Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?

Laparoscopic repair is generally safe and effective, but potential intraoperative and postoperative complications include:

Intraoperative:

Vascular injury
Bowel injury
Bladder injury

Early postoperative:

Seroma or hematoma
Urinary retention
Wound infection

Late postoperative:

Chronic groin pain
Hernia recurrence
Mesh migration or erosion
Testicular complications
Nerve injury

Surgeon experience and meticulous technique reduce risks. Patient counseling on possible complications is essential.

How Successful Is Laparoscopic Hernia Repair?

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is recognized as effective and reliable. TAPP and TEP techniques offer low recurrence and high satisfaction. Studies show success rates generally above 95%:

TAPP and TEP techniques
Low recurrence rates
High patient satisfaction
Rapid recovery
Minimal complication risk

Surgeon experience and equipment quality are key. Laparoscopy excels in bilateral and recurrent hernias. Reduced pain and shorter hospital stays drive its popularity. Low reoperation rates further validate its reliability. Ongoing training and technological advances will expand its use.