Hernia Surgery Q & A

Hernias are quite common, but without surgical treatment, they may lead to pain or other health problems. Joseph F. Popovich, MD, FACS, in Jersey City, New Jersey, is an exceptional surgeon who can remove your hernia laparoscopically or through a traditional open procedure. If you have a hernia that needs to be surgically repaired, call Joseph F. Popovich, MD, FACS, in North Jersey for a consultation. You can also book an appointment online.

What is a hernia?

A hernia develops when the inside layer of your muscle tissue weakens, allowing the inner abdominal tissue to push through, creating a type of sac, which may allow the abdominal tissue or a loop of your intestines to push through.

Hernias are common and affect both men and women. They don’t go away on their own, and they may worsen with time. Surgical repair is recommended if you have a hernia.

What are the types of hernias?

There are several types of hernias, and most are groin hernias.

Inguinal

An inguinal hernia is a type of groin hernia that occurs when your intestines push through a weakness in your lower abdominal area, affecting what’s called the inguinal canal. An inguinal hernia causes a bulge in the pubic area.

Femoral

A femoral hernia is also a type of groin hernia, but it occurs less often than inguinal hernias. A femoral hernia may cause a bulge in the fold of your groin or upper thigh.

Hiatal

A hiatal hernia is when the stomach pops up through the opening in your diaphragm. This type doesn’t typically cause a lump, but it may cause heartburn or a bad sour taste in your mouth.

Other types of hernias include umbilical, incisional, and epigastric.

How are hernias repaired?

Dr. Popovich can repair your hernia laparoscopically or through a traditional open surgery.

Laparoscopic hernia repair

During a laparoscopic hernia repair, Dr. Popovich performs the procedure using a laparoscope, which is a surgical camera he inserts in your abdomen through a small incision. He then makes two additional incisions for his surgical tools, which he uses to repair your hernia with a surgical mesh.

Because he uses smaller incisions, recovery after a laparoscopic procedure is usually significantly shorter than an open procedure. But not everyone is a candidate for a laparoscopic hernia repair.

Open hernia repair

During an open hernia repair, Dr. Popovich makes one large incision near the area of your hernia, cutting through skin, fat, and muscle. He then repairs the hernia using a surgical mesh and stitches the incision closed.

Dr. Popovich will determine the best method for repairing your hernia after an examination and review of your medical history.

For expert surgical repair of your hernia, call Dr. Popovich’s office, or schedule an appointment using the online booking button.