Hernia repair is one of the most performed surgeries, nationally and internationally.During International Week 2026 at Parul University, Dr. Qudratbek Xojiboyev from Namangan State University, Uzbekistan, explained the exact meaning of a hernia and how modern surgery treats it!
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia is the abnormal exit of an organ/tissue from its normal place, pushing through a weakness in muscle or connective tissue. Dr. Qudratbek offered a memorable image: a picture of weak points in a wall, where the contents behind it begin to bulge through. These weak points in the abdominal wall can develop for several reasons, including heavy lifting, ageing, and a general weakening of the body’s structure. When the wall breaks or stretches, organs or fat can slip through the main opening. The common types include inguinal, umbilical, incisional, and ventral hernias. Hence, if a hernia is not treated, blood supply to a section of the intestine can be damaged, leading to a very serious health issue. So, seek professional medical attention and not via any tutorials or tips!
The Gold Standard: Surgical Mesh
Modern medicine repairs that broken wall using surgical mesh, now the gold standard worldwide. The mesh reinforces the abdominal wall, and different types suit different needs: synthetic mesh (such as polypropylene and polyester), lightweight meshes, and biological mesh for selected complex cases. But Dr. Qudratbek was candid that mesh is not a magical, perfect fix. In some cases, patients may experience infection, chronic pain, adhesions, or, rarely, migration of the mesh. It was an honest discussion that taught students a real lesson: medicine is rarely about a perfect treatment but about weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Three Ways to Repair a Hernia
Open Repair
The traditional approach is widely available, highly reliable, and cost-effective. Its downsides: more pain and larger incisions, and Dr. Qudratbek noted it can be a poor choice for patients with significant abdominal fat, where simply stitching the area closed can lead to the hernia returning within months
Laparoscopic (Minimally Invasive) Repair
The traditional approach is widely available, highly reliable, and cost-effective. Its downsides: more pain and larger incisions, and Dr. QudA newer, widely used approach that works through tiny incisions using a camera and special instruments. Two techniques were described: Transabdominal Preperitoneal Repair (TAPP), which accesses the abdominal cavity to place the mesh, and Totally Extraperitoneal Repair (TEP), which avoids entering the abdominal cavity entirely. The advantages are significant: smaller incisions, less pain after surgery, a much faster return to daily life, and better visualization of hernias on both sides.
Robotic Repair
The newest frontier, using robotic systems such as the Da Vinci. Robotic repair offers three-dimensional visualization, improved instrument movement, better suturing, and enhanced ergonomics for the surgeon, allowing near-bloodless operations. The catch, Dr. Qudratbek noted, is the very high cost and the need for specialised training. Whichever technique is used, the goal is always the same: minimal risk of recurrence, less pain, faster recovery, and a better quality of life.
The Reality of Being a Surgeon
Perhaps the most moving part of the session had nothing to do with technique. Dr. Qudratbek spoke candidly about the weight surgeons carry, the sleepless nights spent worrying whether a patient’s postoperative fever means an infection, the constant reading and studying, and the responsibility that rests on you the moment you pick up a scalpel. Explore Ayurveda programs at Parul University, including the Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), Doctor of Medicine-Ayurved (MD), and Master of Surgery-Ayurved (MS), and build your path towards a career in Ayurvedic healthcare, clinical practice, and specialized medicine.
During our life, we have to study until we die. After finishing medical school, without studying, we will not be good doctors.
– Dr. Qudratbek Xojiboyev
It was a powerful reminder to future doctors that medicine is a field of lifelong learning and that dealing with complications, painful as they are, is part of mastering the craft.
FAQs
Define hernia?
A hernia is the exit of an organ or tissue through a weakness or defect in the muscle or connective tissue. Mainly in the abdominal wall, it can develop from heavy workouts, lifting, ageing, or weakening of the body's overall structure. The common types are inguinal and femoral, umbilical, incisional, and ventral hernias.
Define the core differences between open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery?
Open repair is a larger and cost-effective option but causes more pain. Laparoscopic repair involves tiny incisions and a proper camera for less pain and enhanced recovery. Robotic repair is performed with 3D visualization, but it’s far more expensive and needs proper training for the same!
How is surgical mesh used for repairing hernias?
It reinforces the weakened abdominal wall, and it’s the global standard for repairing hernias. The types are synthetic, lightweight, and biological mesh. Although highly effective, mesh can cause infection, chronic pain, and migration occasionally!
