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HERNIA SURGERY

5 Common Hernia Types and
When Surgery Is Necessary

Dr. J. Saravanan February 2026 7 min read

India sees over 2 million hernia repairs annually, yet many patients delay treatment not realising the serious complications that can develop. Understanding your hernia type is the first step toward the right treatment.

What Is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in surrounding muscle. You will typically see a visible bulge that becomes more prominent when standing, coughing or straining, and may partially disappear when lying down.

5 Common Types of Hernias

1. Inguinal Hernia (Groin Hernia)

The most common type, accounting for 70% of all hernias. More common in men. Intestinal tissue pushes through the inguinal canal in the groin. Treated with laparoscopic TEP (Totally Extraperitoneal) or TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal) repair using mesh.

2. Umbilical Hernia (Navel Hernia)

Tissue pushes through the abdominal wall near the navel. Common in adults with obesity or multiple pregnancies. Treated with IPOM+ (Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh Plus) — a laparoscopic technique placing mesh inside the abdominal wall for durable, low-recurrence repair.

3. Incisional Hernia

Develops through the scar of a previous abdominal surgery. Can be large and complex. Repaired using eTEP (Enhanced-View Totally Extraperitoneal) — an advanced approach repairing the hernia without entering the abdominal cavity.

4. Hiatus Hernia

Part of the stomach slides through the diaphragm into the chest. Often causes acid reflux, heartburn or difficulty swallowing. Mild cases managed with medication; severe cases require surgical fundoplication.

5. Complex and Recurrent Hernias

Hernias that returned after previous repair, or those with large defects and loss of abdominal wall integrity. Requires advanced techniques like ETEP + TAR (Transversus Abdominis Release) — allowing repair of even the largest, most complex hernias with minimal tension and excellent long-term outcomes.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

⚠ Seek Emergency Surgery Immediately If:

The hernia bulge becomes hard, red, or cannot be pushed back in. This indicates strangulation — blood supply to herniated tissue is cut off. Life-threatening and requires surgery within hours.

Elective surgery is recommended when the hernia causes pain affecting daily activities, is growing in size, or has repeated stuck episodes.

✓ Why Laparoscopic Repair Is Preferred

3-4 tiny incisions vs one large cut • Less post-operative pain • Return to work in 5-7 days • Lower infection risk • Better cosmetic result • Equal or lower recurrence rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a hernia heal without surgery?
No. A hernia cannot heal on its own. The muscle wall defect will not close naturally. Surgery is the only permanent cure.
What is recovery time after laparoscopic hernia surgery?
Desk workers return in 5-7 days. Physical labour needs 4-6 weeks. Full recovery within 3-4 weeks laparoscopic vs 6-8 weeks open surgery.
Will my hernia come back after surgery?
Recurrence rates with modern mesh-based laparoscopic repair are less than 2% for inguinal hernias. eTEP and ETEP+TAR also have excellent long-term results.
Is a hernia dangerous if left untreated?
Yes. The main risk is strangulation where herniated tissue loses blood supply. This is a medical emergency. Treating a hernia before it becomes an emergency is always the safer choice.

Consult Dr. J. Saravanan

Expert care at Shasti Gastro Care, Kilpauk, Chennai. By prior appointment only.