Hernia Repairs


Repairs for hernias have been recently divided into two basic types: tension and non-tension. Tension repairs are being performed much less frequently now. The tension repairs were the first successful surgical repairs available to the modern surgeon. These repairs take a great deal of skill and time to learn. As with any skill, the benefit of these repairs depends greatly on the knowledge, technique and experience of the operating surgeon. Once the surgeon has mastered these techniques, it is difficult for them to abandon those skills for the newer, less demanding techniques. Therefore, it is more common for older surgeons to still use the tension repairs. On occasion, depending on the circumstances, the tension type repair may be the only repair possible. In those situations, it is recommended that you seek out a surgeon who has experience with many types of repairs, including the tension type repairs.

Common Tension Repairs
Shouldice
Direct Suture

The new, less painful, and in general, more successful non-tension repairs usually employ a mesh reinforcement of some sort. The different techniques depend on:

Since the manufacturing of the instruments and mesh is big business, they are often promoted with slick marketing materials. Some surgeons have a procedure named after them or otherwise share in the profits of the use and success of the repair. Therefore, they may not be entirely objective when representing that repair.


There are significant differences in the various procedures relating to:

National Hernia Network surgeons will make any honest evaluation of your condition and recommend the most appropriate hernia repair. As a general rule, you can trust what your surgeon recommends, but be sure to listen carefully, take notes, and ask questions. The list below includes the most common types of non-tension repairs, but it does not include all available procedures so don’t be concerned if the one your surgeon suggests one that does not appear. The actual success and utility of hernia repairs is an ongoing study and a constant debate. Remember that the most important determinant of the success of your repair is the experience and skill of the surgeon operating. This is much more important that the actual name of the repair performed.

Common Non-Tension Repairs
Overlay
Prolene Hernia System
Preperitoneal and Intramuscular


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National Hernia Network, Inc
3599 University Blvd. South, Suite #909 Jacksonville, FL 32216
Tel: 800-618-2466 Fax: 888-443-7642

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