How is Laparoscopic Abdominal Hernia Repair performed?
Laparoscopic surgery uses a long camera or laparoscope, which is inserted through a small incision in the umbilicus (belly button) and allows the surgeon to see inside the body. Two additional small incisions are made near the laparoscope through which the surgeon inserts long surgical instruments. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide, a gas, to allow your surgeon a better view of the operative area. The surgeon uses these instruments to open the peritoneum, the inner lining of the abdomen, and to expose the weakened area. A mesh patch is affixed to reinforce the weakness. The small incisions are closed with sutures and covered with surgical tape resulting in barely visible scars. Why Laparoscopic? • ___Three or four tiny scars instead of one large abdominal scar. • ___Shorter hospital stay. • __ Reduced pain after the procedure. • ___Quicker recovery time and faster return to daily activities and work. What can I expect after surgery? Many people feel better in a few days howev