Choosing between robotic and open hernia repair

A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall. Inguinal (groin) hernias, incisional hernias (occurring at the site of a previous surgical scar), and larger, complex abdominal wall defects can all be repaired, but the best approach depends on the type, size and location of the hernia.

Inguinal hernia repair

Inguinal hernias are commonly repaired using keyhole surgery — either laparoscopic or robotic — placing a mesh behind the abdominal wall to reinforce the area of weakness. This approach typically causes less post-operative pain than open repair and allows a quicker return to normal activity, though open repair under local anaesthetic remains a reasonable option for some patients, particularly where general anaesthesia carries higher risk.

Incisional hernia repair

Incisional hernias develop at the site of a previous abdominal incision. Repair options range from keyhole mesh repair for smaller defects to open repair with more extensive reconstruction for larger or more complex hernias. The choice depends on the size of the defect, the condition of the surrounding tissue, and whether there has been a previous failed repair.

Complex abdominal wall reconstruction

Larger or recurrent abdominal wall defects, sometimes following multiple previous operations, may need more extensive reconstruction — techniques to release and realign the abdominal wall muscles, often combined with mesh reinforcement, to restore a functional and durable repair. This is typically planned in more detail, sometimes with pre-operative imaging to assess the size and complexity of the defect.

How the decision is made

The right approach depends on hernia size and location, the patient's general health and fitness for surgery, and any relevant surgical history. This is assessed individually at consultation, weighing the benefits of a minimally invasive approach against the specific demands of the repair required.