Hernia Repair

Why Does a Hernia Need Repair?

Once a Hernia has developed it will not go away on its own. It will probably grow larger over the years and may cause more pain and discomfort. The hernia may also produce other complications, such as blockage of the bowel.

Hernia Surgery

The most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia, which affects the groin area. Professor Bailey repairs this hernia laparoscopically using the Totally Extra-Peritoneal route, which avoids entering and disturbing the contents of the abdomen. This method of operating laparoscopically leads to less post-operative pain, and an earlier return to normal activity and work. The Professor was one of the first surgeons in the United Kingdom to use this method and has performed over 3500 repairs this way, with a recurrence rate of only 0.6% (which is much lower than other published recurrence rates for this type of procedure). He now teaches and lectures on the procedure throughout the world.

The operation is performed through three very small incisions under a general anaesthetic, and involves the insertion of a mesh to completely reinforce the groin. It can be performed as a day patient, and permits a rapid return to normal activity. The technique is appropriate for new hernias, and is also the best way to treat recurrent and bilateral hernias.

What is the best way to repair an inguinal hernia?

Randomised controlled trials have shown that laparoscopic inguinal repair has significant benefits compared with open (a large cut under general or local anaesthetic) surgery, with less pain and a quicker recovery, and yet has as good or better long-term results.

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence, the NHS advisory body, has endorsed the laparoscopic repair of both primary and recurrent unilateral and bilateral hernias.