Whether you're facing a hernia diagnosis or simply curious about medical history, understanding the evolution of hernia surgery provides valuable insight into how far we’ve come—and where we're headed next.
 

Hernias have been a common medical condition for thousands of years,¹ and the methods used to repair them have evolved dramatically over time. From elementary ancient remedies to the advanced robotic-assisted surgeries we see today, the journey of hernia repair reflects the progress of medical science and technology.

The earliest recorded references to hernias date back to ancient civilizations. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all documented hernias in their medical texts.

• Ancient Egypt: The Ebers Papyrus (around 1550 BCE) mentions hernias and suggests treatments involving bending.²
• Hippocratic Era: Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician, noted that trusses—a type of supportive belt used to support hernias—were found in Egyptian tombs, showing that hernia treatment was practiced long before his time.³
• Roman Medicine: Roman physicians like Celsus (25 BCE–50 CE) were among the first to attempt surgical intervention. Celsus’ approach involved placing the patient on their back so the swelling can return to the abdomen. To remove the navel sac, some clamped it shut until the tissue died, while others tied it off with thread. Some also cut and removed the tissue before tying it off—a risky procedure given the lack of antiseptics and anesthesia.⁴

While these ancient methods were primitive by today’s standards, they laid the groundwork for future surgical advancements.
 

During the medieval period, surgical progress slowed due to religious and cultural constraints on human dissection and experimentation. However, by the Renaissance, interest in anatomy and surgery was reignited.

• Leonardo da Vinci: Though primarily known as an artist, da Vinci’s anatomical drawings provided detailed insights into human musculature, including areas prone to hernias.⁵
• Ambroise Paré: A 16th-century French surgeon, Paré improved surgical techniques by introducing methods that minimized the damage done to the tissues of the patient, which guided the development of the gentle art of surgery in the many centuries since his writings first appeared.⁶
   

The 19th century saw significant breakthroughs that transformed hernia repair:

• Antiseptic Surgery: Thanks to Joseph Lister’s pioneering work on antisepsis in the 1860s, the risk of infection during surgery decreased.⁷

• Anesthesia: The introduction of ether and chloroform as anesthetics allowed surgeons to perform procedures without causing pain to patients.⁸

• Bassini Technique: Known as the “Father of Modern-Day Hernia Surgery,” Italian surgeon Edoardo Bassini developed a revolutionary hernia repair method that involved suturing the layers of the abdominal wall. This “Bassini Technique” became the gold standard of inguinal hernia repair and significantly improved patient outcomes.⁹
   

The 20th century brought two major innovations that changed the game for hernia surgery:

• Synthetic Mesh (1950s): The use of synthetic mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall reduced recurrence rates and improved long-term outcomes. Surgeons no longer relied solely on sutures, which could weaken over time.¹⁰

• Laparoscopic Surgery (1990s): Minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques allowed surgeons to repair hernias through small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments. This approach has reduced recovery time, minimized scarring, and lowered the risk of infection.¹¹
   

Today, bioabsorbable mesh and robotic-assisted hernia surgery are cutting-edge approaches many surgeons choose to use, and patients are asking more about. 

Robotic-Assisted Surgery Advancements:¹²

• Precision: Robotic instruments allow for greater dexterity and range of motion than human hands.
• Reduced Pain and Scarring: Smaller incisions mean the potential for less postoperative pain and minimal scarring.
• Faster Recovery: Patients often experience quicker recovery times and can return to normal activities sooner compared to traditional open surgery.

Bioabsorbable Mesh Advancements:^13,14

• Fully Absorbable: Gradually dissolves over time, allowing the body's own tissue to grow into and reinforce the repair site.
• Made of Natural Biomaterials: Minimizes the risk of a foreign body reaction.
• Reduced Complications: Suitable for situations where a temporary support structure is needed while the body heals naturally.¹⁴
   

Today, patients have access to a range of surgical options tailored to their specific needs, from traditional open repair to advanced robotic-assisted procedures.

As technology continues to evolve, so do the procedures for hernia repair. Innovations in biomaterials, AI-assisted surgery, and regenerative medicine may help to further improve outcomes and reduce recurrence rates.¹⁵
 

With advances in technology, hernia patients now have greater access to medical information, enabling a more collaborative, shared care approach with their doctors. Online resources, telemedicine, and digital health tools empower patients to understand treatment options, compare surgical techniques, and actively participate in decision-making. Studies have shown that shared decision-making has the potential to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes¹⁶—as informed patients are more likely to choose treatments that align with their personal health goals and lifestyles.*

Patients considering hernia surgery should consult with a qualified surgeon to discuss the best approach based on their individual condition and lifestyle.

The guidance provided in this article follows general rules that should be discussed with your doctor. This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical advice. If in doubt, always consult your doctor.