Open Inguinal Hernia Repair

Peter J. Lydon, MD, FACS

The most common inguinal hernia repair being performed today is the open “tension free” mesh repair. This procedure is usually performed under local or regional anesthesia (however, you may be put to sleep) and requires an open skin incision down to the muscles (two to four inches) to gain access to the hernia. The repair is made by securing a synthetic mesh over the hernia defect. The technique is effective and safe, but because the incision cuts through muscle, a full recovery can take three to six weeks.