Innovations in hernia surgery: from mesh to robotic repairs

Memorial Satilla Health - July 01, 2025
4 min Read Time

Hernia surgery has come a long way in recent decades, with numerous innovations transforming the way hernias are treated. Once considered a major surgery with long recovery times, today’s hernia repairs are minimally invasive, highly effective, and focused on faster recovery and less discomfort for patients. One of the most significant advancements in the field has been the use of mesh for reinforcement and the integration of robotic-assisted surgery, which has made hernia repair surgeries even more precise and efficient.

At Memorial Satilla Health, we are proud to offer our patients the latest advancements in hernia surgery, ensuring optimal care and better outcomes.

What is a Hernia, and Why Does It Require Surgery?

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body, such as an organ or tissue, pushes through a weak spot or opening in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. The most common types of hernias include:

Inguinal Hernia (in the groin)
Umbilical Hernia (around the belly button)
Hiatal Hernia (upper stomach)
Incisional Hernia (through a previous surgical scar)

“While some hernias can be managed without surgery, many require intervention to prevent complications such as pain, bowel obstruction, or strangulation, where blood flow to the herniated tissue is compromised,” says Dr. Sigismund Lee, general surgeon. “The goal of hernia surgery is to repair the weakened area and prevent the hernia from recurring,” Lee adds.

The Evolution of Hernia Surgery: From Traditional to Minimally Invasive

Historically, hernia repairs were done through traditional open surgery, which required large incisions to access the affected area. This approach was effective but led to longer recovery times, more pain, and higher risks of infection. Over time, as surgical techniques advanced, minimally invasive surgery (MIS), using smaller incisions, began to gain popularity. This approach not only reduced recovery time and scarring but also helped minimize the risk of complications.

Two key innovations—mesh reinforcement and robotic-assisted surgery—have been crucial in advancing the field of hernia repair and improving patient outcomes.

1. The Role of Mesh in Hernia Surgery

One of the major breakthroughs in hernia surgery has been the use of surgical mesh to reinforce the weakened area of the abdominal wall. Mesh is a synthetic material, typically made of polypropylene, that is placed over or under the hernia defect to provide strength and support. This added reinforcement significantly reduces the risk of the hernia reoccurring after surgery, a problem that was much more common in the past.

There are two types of mesh used in hernia surgery:

Synthetic Mesh: The most commonly used type, providing durable support that integrates well with the body’s tissues.
Biological Mesh: Made from animal tissue, used in more complex cases or for patients with an increased risk of infection.

“Mesh has greatly reduced the recurrence rate of hernias, improving long-term outcomes for patients and making it a standard part of our hernia repair, notes Dr. Lee. “As surgeons, we now have the ability to customize the type and placement of mesh, further enhancing the effectiveness of the repair.”

2. Robotic-Assisted Hernia Repair: The Next Frontier in Precision

As technology has continued to advance, robotic-assisted surgery has become one of the most exciting innovations in the world of hernia repair. The use of robotic systems, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, allows surgeons to perform highly precise procedures using small incisions. This system provides a 3D view of the surgical site, enhanced by high-definition cameras, and enables the surgeon to control robotic arms with incredible precision.

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Hernia Repair:

Enhanced Precision and Control: The robotic system provides greater flexibility and range of motion than human hands alone. Surgeons can make finer, more accurate movements, which is especially valuable in complex hernia repairs.
Smaller Incisions: Robotic-assisted hernia repairs typically require only a few small incisions, leading to reduced pain, less scarring, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Quicker Recovery: Patients undergoing robotic-assisted hernia repair often experience a significantly shorter recovery time. With less tissue damage and fewer complications, many patients can return to daily activities more quickly.
Reduced Risk of Complications: The improved visualization and accuracy of robotic systems reduce the likelihood of errors during surgery, lowering the risk of complications like infection or injury to surrounding tissues.
Faster Return to Work and Normal Activities: Because recovery times are shorter with robotic-assisted surgery, patients can return to their normal routines faster, which is a huge benefit for those with active lifestyles or demanding jobs.

How HCA Healthcare is Pioneering Robotic Hernia Surgery

At Memorial Satilla, we are dedicated to providing our patients with access to the latest advancements in surgery. “We use the da Vinci Surgical System to perform a wide variety of hernia repairs, offering patients the benefits of minimally invasive, robot-assisted procedures,” says Dr. Lee. Our surgeons are skilled in using robotic technology to perform complex surgeries with unmatched precision, ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.

Memorial Satilla’s commitment to excellence means we continuously invest in the most advanced technology and provide ongoing training for our surgeons, allowing them to offer the highest level of care. Our goal is to make your experience as comfortable, efficient, and effective as possible, and robotic-assisted surgery is an essential part of that mission.

When Is Surgery Needed for a Hernia?

Not all hernias require surgery, but if your hernia is causing pain, increasing in size, or at risk of strangulation (cutting off blood supply), surgery is typically recommended. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

For many patients, minimally invasive options like robotic-assisted hernia repair offer a more comfortable and faster recovery, allowing you to return to your life with fewer disruptions.

At Memorial Satilla, we are proud to offer these state-of-the-art surgical options to our patients, ensuring that they receive the best possible care with the latest technology.

If you suspect you have a hernia or are dealing with hernia-related symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team of surgeons is here to help guide you through the best treatment options and provide personalized care tailored to your needs. https://memorialsatillahealth.com/physicians/.