hernioplastia

Hernoplastia, also known as hernioplasty, is a surgical repair of a hernia. The goal is to return protruding tissue to its proper position and reinforce the weakened area of the abdominal wall, usually using a prosthetic mesh to reduce recurrence. The procedure can be performed openly or laparoscopically and is applicable to inguinal, femoral, umbilical, and ventral/incisional hernias.

Indications include symptomatic hernias, hernias at risk of incarceration or strangulation, and elective repair to prevent complications. Decision factors include hernia size and location, patient comorbidities, and surgeon expertise.

Techniques vary by hernia type and approach. Open repairs often place a mesh to cover the defect with an onlay or plug-and-patch method; common inguinal techniques include Lichtenstein, plug-and-patch, and Shouldice (tissue) repair. Laparoscopic approaches include totally extraperitoneal repair (TEP) and transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP). Mesh is typically used in modern repairs, though non-mesh tissue repairs exist in select cases.

Outcomes and recovery: Recurrence rates are generally low with mesh-based repairs. Most patients experience relief of symptoms but may have short-term pain and a recovery period of days to weeks. Return to normal activities depends on the repair type and individual factors. Complications include seroma, hematoma, wound infection, chronic groin pain, mesh-related issues, and very rarely recurrence.

History and terminology: The term hernioplasty emphasizes reconstruction with mesh; non-mesh repairs are sometimes called herniorrhaphy. The procedure has evolved since the mid-20th century with mesh-based approaches improving strength and reducing recurrence.