Advantages of Robotic Inguinal Hernia Repair
For many reasons, the robotic approach is a preferable way to fix inguinal hernias. Let’s take a look at what some of those reasons are:
Reduced postoperative pain: According to a study published in the Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques, patients who underwent robotic inguinal hernia repair reported significantly less postoperative pain compared to those who underwent open surgery.
Faster recovery time: Nearly all robotic groin hernia patients are discharged the same day as surgery. While this may be similar to open surgery, there is certainly a faster return to normal activities compared to those who underwent open surgery.
Improved surgical precision: Robotic inguinal hernia repair has a lower rate of intraoperative complications compared to open surgery, likely due to the higher precision and accuracy of the robotic technology. Also, due to the differences in how the hernia is reached from the robotic approach, the risk of nerve injury or chronic pain is significantly less.
Lower risk of infection: With smaller incisions that are placed higher on the abdomen, the risk of wound infection is decreased. The robotic approach also placed the skin incisions further from the location that the mesh is placed, which decreases chances of mesh infection.
Enhanced patient safety: Robotic inguinal hernia repair has a low rate of intraoperative and postoperative complications, indicating that the procedure is safe for patients.
Reduced risk of recurrence: Robotic inguinal hernia repair has a lower rate of hernia recurrence compared to open surgery. This is certainly the case in female patients in which femoral hernias (a subtype of groin hernias) are frequently missed from a traditional open approach.
In conclusion, multiple studies have shown that robotic inguinal hernia repair offers several advantages over traditional open surgeries, including reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery time, improved surgical precision, lower risk of infection, better cosmetic results, enhanced patient safety, and reduced risk of recurrence. It is worth discussing the robotic approach with your surgeon to determine if it is the best option for you. Click here to make an appointment with Dr. Harper or Dr. Kramer
