Expert Inguinal (Groin) Hernia Surgery in Bathinda — Dr. Raman Garg

An inguinal hernia (groin hernia) is the most common type of hernia, accounting for 75% of all abdominal hernias. It occurs when tissue — usually part of the intestine — protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles in the groin area. Dr. Raman Garg at Bombay Gastro & Cancer Institute, Bathinda is the leading expert for inguinal hernia surgery in South Punjab, having performed thousands of laparoscopic hernia repairs with outstanding results.

Understanding Inguinal Hernia

The inguinal canal is a passage in the lower abdominal wall through which blood vessels and the vas deferens (in men) or round ligament (in women) pass. An inguinal hernia occurs when the abdominal contents (fat or intestine) push through a weak spot in this canal, creating a visible lump in the groin.

• Direct inguinal hernia: Protrudes directly through the posterior wall of the inguinal canal. More common in older men. Due to acquired weakness.
• Indirect inguinal hernia: Follows the inguinal canal downward, sometimes into the scrotum. Can occur at any age. Due to a patent processus vaginalis (congenital weak point).
• Bilateral inguinal hernia: Hernias on both sides — treated simultaneously with laparoscopic repair.

Who Gets Inguinal Hernia?

• More common in men (25× more than women) — due to larger inguinal canal
• Risk increases with age — natural weakening of abdominal wall
• Heavy physical labour, heavy lifting
• Chronic cough or straining (constipation, urinary obstruction)
• Obesity
• Family history of hernias
• Previous groin surgery or injury

Symptoms of Inguinal Hernia

• A bulge in the groin area or scrotum that may disappear when lying down
• Discomfort or pain in the groin — especially when bending, coughing, or lifting
• Dragging or heavy sensation in the groin
• Swelling in the scrotum in men
• Weakness or pressure in the groin area

Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair — TAPP and TEP

Dr. Raman Garg performs laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using two advanced techniques:

TAPP (Trans-Abdominal Pre-Peritoneal Repair)

• Three small cuts (5–10mm) in the abdomen
• The abdominal cavity is entered first; the hernia defect is approached from inside
• A mesh is placed over the hernia defect and secured with tacks or sutures
• Better visualisation, especially useful for bilateral hernias
• Same-day discharge in most cases

TEP (Totally Extra-Peritoneal Repair)

• Operates entirely in the pre-peritoneal space — does NOT enter the abdominal cavity
• Lower risk of intra-abdominal organ injury
• Preferred for unilateral inguinal hernias
• Mesh placed without tacks in many cases (sutureless/tack-less repair)
• Same-day discharge

Advantages of Laparoscopic Over Open Hernia Repair

• Much less pain: Three 5–10mm incisions vs. one 5–8cm incision in open surgery
• Faster recovery: Return to normal activities in 5–7 days (vs. 4–6 weeks for open)
• Lower recurrence rate: Better mesh placement with laparoscopic technique
• Bilateral repair in one operation: Both hernias repaired through the same 3 tiny incisions
• Better cosmesis: Nearly invisible scars
• Same-day discharge: Go home within 24 hours

The Mesh in Hernia Repair

A polypropylene mesh is placed over the hernia defect during repair. This mesh integrates into the surrounding tissue over weeks and provides a permanent reinforcement — dramatically reducing hernia recurrence. Dr. Raman Garg uses premium-quality, heavyweight polypropylene mesh for the strongest, most durable repair.

When Should You Get Hernia Surgery?

All symptomatic hernias should be repaired electively. Waiting for a hernia to become an emergency (strangulation) is dangerous — emergency surgery has significantly higher complication rates than planned elective surgery. Dr. Raman Garg recommends early intervention:

• If the hernia is causing pain or discomfort
• If the hernia is enlarging
• If the hernia is affecting daily activities
• Even if asymptomatic — given the risk of strangulation

Frequently Asked Questions — Inguinal Hernia Surgery Bathinda