Hernia surgery in Vienna – inguinal, umbilical and incisional hernia

What is a hernia?

The abdominal cavity is partly bounded by the abdominal wall, which consists of connective tissue and muscle. A hernia is a weakness or gap in the abdominal wall through which abdominal contents can push outwards. This is often visible as a bulge under the skin.

Hernias occur most frequently in the groin (inguinal hernia) and at the navel (umbilical hernia). If a hernia develops in the area of a surgical scar, it is called an incisional hernia.

Why should a hernia be treated?

Hernias can cause a feeling of pressure or pain. In the worst case, parts of the bowel become trapped in the hernia – this can lead to bowel obstruction and emergency surgery.

An abdominal wall hernia in adults does not usually regress by itself and can grow larger over time. As a result, the symptoms usually increase as well, and the operation becomes more extensive. If you suspect a hernia, please contact me directly – you do not need any further preliminary examinations for this.

First consultation and examination

The first contact takes place at one of my private practices – in the city centre (Rosengasse) or at the medical centre of the Wiener Privatklinik. A detailed consultation and a careful physical examination usually make it possible to clarify whether there is a hernia and whether surgery makes sense. An ultrasound is only needed in addition if the findings are unclear.

My surgical techniques

With minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques such as TAPP – the mesh is fixed with tissue glue instead of staples –, gentle mini-incision methods such as PUMP (preperitoneal umbilical mesh plasty) and, in special cases, with the Da Vinci surgical robot, I treat hernias gently and durably.

Inguinal hernia: the TAPP method

In virtually all patients I perform the laparoscopic operation (TAPP – transabdominal preperitoneal repair). Through a small incision at the navel and two small incisions of approx. 8 mm to the left and right of it, a synthetic mesh is placed in the abdominal wall, covering the hernia gap from the inside. I fix the mesh gently with a tissue glue. I do without fixation with staples or tacks, because they can cause pain. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia.

Only in rare cases – for example after major previous operations with severe adhesions in the abdominal cavity – do I operate openly (Lichtenstein or Shouldice).

Umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia can almost always be treated through a small incision hidden in the navel. Above a certain size – especially in the case of overweight – I also recommend mesh reinforcement, for example with the PUMP technique. This means small scars and less pain than a laparoscopic operation.

Incisional hernia

Incisional hernias develop as a late consequence of abdominal surgery, usually in the first few months afterwards. Depending on the findings, laparoscopic, open or robotic techniques may be considered. We will discuss together which method suits you after the examination. For complex incisional hernias, the Da Vinci system at the Wiener Privatklinik can offer advantages.

Surgery by a specialist

For a good result, a hernia should be operated on by a specialist. Hernia surgery is one of my main fields. When planning, I take into account your symptoms, the type of hernia and your personal requirements for everyday life and work.

Frequently asked questions