What type of surgical site does inguinal hernia surgery belong to?
Nov 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
Anatomically, the inguinal region is located in the lower abdomen, lateral to the pubic tubercle, and connects inferiorly to the upper part of the thigh; surgery is primarily performed in this area. In adults, surgery mainly targets the hernial sac within the inguinal canal, which is situated above the inguinal ligament and near the inferior epigastric artery. The procedure typically involves repairing the weakened abdominal wall or performing high ligation of the hernial sac.
Under normal circumstances, inguinal hernia surgery involves the groin area—the region where the lower abdomen meets the upper thigh—with the specific surgical site centered around the inguinal canal. If the hernia becomes incarcerated or is complicated by other conditions, the surgical scope may be slightly expanded. In case of concerns, it is recommended to seek medical consultation in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Anatomically, the inguinal region is located in the lower abdomen, lateral to the pubic tubercle, and connects downward to the root of the thigh. Surgery is primarily performed in this area. In adults, surgery typically targets the hernial sac within the inguinal canal, focusing on the area above the inguinal ligament and near the inferior epigastric artery. The procedure involves repairing weakened areas of the abdominal wall or performing high ligation of the hernial sac. In children, due to the closer anatomical relationship between the hernial sac and structures such as the spermatic cord, the surgical site is closer to the upper part of the scrotum, requiring precise dissection to avoid damaging surrounding tissues.
In terms of surgical approach, traditional open surgery involves a direct incision in the groin area, approximately 3–5 cm in length, with the operative field limited to the inguinal canal and its surrounding tissues. Laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery, although involving smaller incisions that may be placed around the umbilicus or other parts of the lower abdomen, still centers its core operations on the inguinal canal. The hernial sac is managed and the abdominal wall repaired using instruments inserted into the abdominal cavity. Thus, it remains fundamentally a groin-region procedure, with only more concealed incision sites.
Prior to surgery, patients should cooperate with their doctor in completing physical examinations and imaging studies to accurately determine the location and size of the hernia. After surgery, activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure—such as vigorous coughing or straining during bowel movements—should be avoided to prevent wound dehiscence. If significant swelling or worsening pain occurs in the groin area postoperatively, prompt medical follow-up is necessary.
