Hernias may be uncomfortable to talk about, but they’re incredibly common. Left untreated, a hernia may cause serious health complications down the road. At Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence, we specialize in complex hernia surgery and offer the latest hernia treatment options.
A hernia happens when part of an organ extends too far into an area, such as in the stomach or groin. Its symptoms can include pain, a lump in your belly or heartburn.
If you have hernia pain, we can help. Clinicians at Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence will provide a precise diagnosis and the most advanced treatments available, including minimally-invasive robotic-assisted surgery. We have the region’s most convenient and comprehensive hernia treatment program with surgeons who have substantial experience treating both common and complex hernias.
Advanced diagnostic imaging
At our hernia treatment program, you’ll have access to advanced diagnostic and imaging services – including high-resolution computed tomography (CT) – that help us accurately diagnose this condition.
Surgical expertise
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN)’s general surgeons have more experience treating hernias than clinicians at other hospitals in the area. Our team’s surgical skills cover a broad range, including laparoscopic surgery for hernia repair, hernia mesh, inguinal hernia surgery and many other repairs.
The areas we treat are:
- Groin (inguinal) hernia
- Esophagus-stomach junction (hiatal) hernia
- Upper thigh (femoral) hernia
- Navel (umbilical) hernia
- Abdominal (ventral) hernia
- Incisional hernia (hernia from a prior surgery)
Access and convenience
Get expert care, quickly, wherever it’s most convenient for you. Our experienced general surgeons practice at multiple locations across our network. We can often accommodate next-day appointments.
Patient satisfaction
We offer the latest advances in anesthesia options for improved pain control. Additionally, our research-backed, enhanced recovery practices mean you may experience a shorter hospital stay and less pain after hernia removal surgery.
Hernia Surgery FAQs
Most hernias involve one of your abdominal organs – such as the bowel or stomach – pushing through a wall in your abdominal cavity. Hernias can gradually occur after years of wear and tear on your muscles. They also might happen after certain surgeries and injuries or from a birth disorder.
While some hernias are small and do not cause pain or discomfort, hernias do not go away on their own. Over time, they tend to get bigger as the muscle in the abdominal wall gets weaker. Whether or not to get hernia surgery depends on size, discomfort and type. You can be screened to see if you're a candidate at our free hernia screenings events or by requesting an appointment with one of our experts.
Recovery time for hernia surgery varies depending on your type of hernia and complexity of the surgery. You may be able to engage in light exercise, such as walking, the day after your procedure. It’s possible to return to a nonphysical job within a few days. At LVHN, we offer robotic-assisted surgery, which uses smaller incisions, causing less pain and meaning you’ll be able to return to your activities sooner.
Schedule an Appointment
Let LVHN relieve your hernia pain; meet with a hernia specialist.
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