Why I choose to do the most technically challenging Incisional Hernia repair.

The robotic totally enhanced extraperitoneal hernia repair (e-TEP) is a minimal access technique that enables surgeons to repair large complicated abdominal wall hernias through 3 small (8mm) incisions. The technique requires an excellent understanding of abdominal wall anatomy and years of hernia repair experience. Many patients have failed hernia repairs, for a multitude of reasons, leaving them with unsightly, painful and dysfunctional hernias with scar tissue and ineffectively placed mesh material. The e-TEP repair takes advantage of accessing a virgin retromuscular plane which can safely navigate the best repair in the midst of a hostile previously operated abdomen. I use the Xi da Vinci robot which allows for optimal visualization and precise dissection and sewing. The e-TEP technique allows me to access the entire retromuscular plane which extends throughout the entire abdomen. As a result, I can repair large hernias through 3 small incisions. These procedures require a lot of concentration and patience on the part of the surgeon. Quite often it is easier to just make a big incision to get the job done but is that the best for the patient? More often than not, the answer is no! Big incisions can lead to more post-operative complications and prolonged recovery. It gives me great pleasure to restore the best quality of life for my patients with the least amount of pain and suffering.