Open surgery
Traditional hernia repair through a direct incision. It is still the right choice for many patients and many hernia types.
Indications
- Inguinal, umbilical or epigastric hernias in selected patients
- Patients who cannot have general anaesthesia
- Local anaesthesia preference
- Previous abdominal surgery with extensive adhesions
- Surgeon preference based on hernia characteristics
Techniques
Open surgery may use a suture repair, a mesh repair (Lichtenstein, plug, or onlay) or a more complex reconstruction for incisional hernias. The technique is chosen after clinical examination and, when needed, imaging.
For large incisional hernias with loss of domain, open surgery may include component separation or abdominal wall reconstruction.
Anaesthesia
Open repair can be performed under local, regional or general anaesthesia. The choice is based on the hernia type, the patient's health and the expected complexity.
Recovery
Walking is encouraged early. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity are limited for a few weeks, depending on the repair type. Follow-up is scheduled to check the wound and the repair.
