Some so-called reducible inguinal hernias only require simple handling and then monitoring. For other, more advanced inguinal hernias, the only option is surgery.

Several surgical techniques exist. There are “open” surgeries, meaning that the surgeon opens the abdomen or laparoscopy, a minimally invasive technique that requires only three incisions. Laparoscopy has several advantages: the patient recovers better, suffers less, has only a small scar and stays in hospital for less time. This technique is especially indicated for bilateral or recurrent hernias. It requires general anesthesia and the recurrence rate of inguinal hernia is higher than in open abdominal surgery.

Whatever technique is chosen, this choice being made according to the patient, his age, his general condition and his other pathologies, the surgeon returns the viscera to their initial location in the abdominal cavity then can place a kind of net, called plaque (or hernioplasty), so that in the future they cannot follow the same path and thus cause an inguinal hernia again. The inguinal orifice is thus better sealed. The French National Authority for Health (HAS) has assessed the effectiveness of these plaques on the risk of recurrence and recommends their installation regardless of the surgical technique choise¹.

Complications following the operation are infrequent. Physical activity can usually be resumed one month after the operation.