-
Diagnostic laparoscopy as the definitive means of hernia detection?
It’s not that simple. First, even though laparoscopy is a fairly low risk procedure, it is not risk free and that risk goes up significantly in patients with prior surgery. Second, small fat containing hernias are not always seen in a standard laparoscopy. The peritoneum needs to be opened which adds significantly to the procedure. Third, a hernia may or may not be the cause of pain and sometimes the only way to know is to do a repair, which can actually make things worse. The bottom line is that there are no easy answers and the decision has to come after a detailed discussion between the patient and surgeon.