A hernia is a defect in the abdominal wall

It presents with a swelling which may be uncomfortable

The only cure for a hernia is surgical repair

Treatment aims too relieve the discomfort and swelling

Surgery is usually undertaken as a daycase

Local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia may be used

Patients unfit for general anaesthesia will have local anaesthetic

Hernias are best repaired using a mesh material

The mesh can be placed either via keyhole or open approaches

Keyhole surgery is less painful but is not suitable for some patients

For most hernias recovery time is two to four weeks off work

Driving is usually possible after 7 to 10 days

Regular exercise can be started when comfortable

Heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 weeks

Complications are rare but include wound infection and longterm pain

Very rarely the mesh may need to be removed due to infection

All types of hernia repair are associated with a low incidence of recurrence