Chronic pain syndrome after hernia surgery

After hernia operations and especially after inguinal hernia operations, it is not uncommon for chronic pain to occur (> 6 months). How often and to what extent they occur depends on various factors, including the surgical technique.

The first thing we do is to check whether the hernia has recurred. Furthermore, other diseases that could be responsible for the pain are ruled out. If no correlate for the symptoms can be found, we usually prescribe drug-based pain therapy first. If the symptoms persist, local infiltrations or, as a last resort, surgery may be considered. We work closely with pain therapy specialists in this regard.

Surgical techniques

The surgical spectrum ranges from reopening the groin with severing of nerves or removal of sutures to severing the nerves that transmit the pain from the groin close to the spinal cord.

Possible complications

  • General complications: Allergic reaction, thrombosis, urinary retention
  • Surgical complications: Bleeding, fluid accumulation, infection, persistent pain

Responsible professionals

Diana Vetter, PD Dr. med.

Chief Physician, Department of Visceral and Transplant Surgery

Tel. +41 43 253 56 72
Specialties: General visceral surgery, Endocrine surgery

Raphael Knechtle, Dr. med.

Attending Physician, Department of Visceral and Transplant Surgery

Tel. +41 43 253 18 81

For patients

As a patient, you cannot register directly for a consultation. Please get a referral from your primary care physician, specialist.

For referrering physicians

Easily assign your patient online.

Tel. +41 44 255 11 35
Referr online

Related diseases