In laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen, each about a centimeter long. A tube with a tiny video camera on its end is inserted through one incision, and miniature surgical instruments are inserted through another. The camera image is relayed to a video screen that the surgeon watches while manipulating the surgical instruments by special controls. Laparoscopic surgeries have become commonplace because they offer patients the benefits of shorter operating times and discharge home the same day. Patients typically have much less pain and less scarring compared to patients undergoing traditional open surgeries, and they can return to their normal activities sooner. Laparoscopic surgery for an inguinal hernia carries the risk of complications, but according to the World Laparoscopic Hospital, a training center for surgeons, the rate of complication for laparoscopic surgeries is only 1 to 5 percent.
Anesthesia Reactions
Like any surgery, laparoscopic hernia repair requires anesthesia, and anesthesia carries risks. That is why patients always have to be cleared by an anesthesiologist before the surgeon may operate. The most common complications of anesthesia are cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory problems such as pneumonia.
Infection
Infection is a risk with any surgery, which is why standard care for most surgeries includes administering an intravenous antibiotic during the operation. Laparoscopic surgery causes minimal tissue damage, but any opening in the skin exposes the body to microorganisms. Signs of infection include a fever over 101 degrees F, chills, increased redness of incisions, the presence of pus in an incision, swelling in the abdomen or groin, or excessive pain.
Recurrence
Although not common after laparoscopic hernia repair, it is possible for the hernia to come back. According to the Mayo Clinic, less than 3 percent of hernias recur after laparoscopic surgery.
Injury
As with any surgery, there is a slight risk of damaging organs, blood vessels, or nerves. Because of the location of an inguinal hernia, this includes the risk of damage to the bladder or the vessels leading to the testicles.
Difficulty Urinating
After surgery a temporary inability to urinate is not unusual. Some patients need to have a catheter placed in the bladder for up to a week until the ability returns.
