The inguinal canal is a natural passage that in men allows the descent of the testicles from the abdominal wall into the scrotum. After birth, this canal should close itself off from the intestine.
An inguinal hernia arises mainly when the inguinal canal does not close completely after birth, allowing a portion of the intestine to descend into the groin area and causing a hernia.
There are two types of inguinal hernias: direct and indirect.
A direct inguinal hernia occurs when a part of the intestine penetrates a weakness in the abdominal muscles near the groin. This type of hernia is more common in adult men.
Indirect inguinal hernia usually occurs in children, but with higher incidence in adulthood due to muscular strain.

There are two treatments for hernias: open surgery and laparoscopic surgery.
During open surgery, a synthetic mesh is used to re-inforce the area and prevent recurrence.
During laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes three small incisions in the abdominal wall and inserts a laparoscope (an instrument with a small video camera). Aided by surgical instruments inserted through the incisions and looking through a monitor, the surgeon pulls the herniated intestine back inside the abdomen and closes the hole with a suture and synthetic mesh.

Prevention of complications (choking or strangulation).

Normally results are excellent, but some patients may experience complications, as in any surgical procedure, the most frequent being bleeding, urine retention and some risk from anaesthesia.

Patients will receive nutritional guidance for the first 7 days. The cuts are closed with stitches and covered with a dressing.
The patient should avoid a lot of time lying down or sitting and must walk several times a day. You can start driving as soon as you can move more easily and with little pain.
After any hernia surgery, the patient should avoid heavy lifting for 6 to 8 weeks.

Depending on the chosen treatment, the patient can start with a little more activity in the second week (laparoscopy) or the fourth week (open technique).