The UH Case Medical Center Comprehensive Hernia Center offers both traditional (open) and minimally invasive surgical options for all types of hernias, depending on the specific needs of each patient.

Minimally Invasive (Laparoscopic) Surgery

UH surgeons are specially trained in the most sophisticated minimally invasive surgery techniques, and perform a high volume of these procedures each year. Laparoscopic procedures are performed through a few small incisions via a scope that is inserted inside a patient’s abdomen or groin.

Minimally invasive surgery has become the procedure of choice for most hernia repairs, and offers the following benefits:

  • Less pain
  • Less recovery time
  • Less complications
  • Less recurrence of hernia

Patients generally undergo a short outpatient procedure, and are able to resume desk work and leisure activities within two to three days; manual labor within two weeks.

For those with more complex and often multiple recurrent hernias, the UH Comprehensive Hernia Center team has successfully applied a variety of innovative techniques in major abdominal wall reconstructions.

Traditional (Open) Surgery

Due to an increase in the average body mass index (BMI) for some patients, traditional “open” surgery may be the best option. UH surgeons are experienced in treating patients with exceptionally large hernias and who may be candidates for extensive reconstruction of the abdominal wall, a highly complex surgery. A simultaneous procedure in which the hernia is repaired and the excess skin is removed is an option for many of our patients.

The UH Comprehensive Hernia Center surgeons are skilled in a number of different methods for repairing first occurrence and recurrent hernias including new prosthetic meshes, fixation techniques and surgical approaches including autogenous tissue repair, and use of synthetic and biological meshes. These designs have been studied by our team of specialist surgeons, enabling each surgeon to tailor the repair to the hernia type and individual patient. Goals of surgery include optimal repair, reduction of pain, quick recovery and low recurrence.