Inguinal hernia: Everything you need to know - an interview with Dr René Spalinger
Dr. med. René Spalinger
May 7, 2025
5 min
An inguinal hernia is one of the most common surgical conditions and affects thousands of people in Switzerland every year. But what exactly happens with an inguinal hernia, what symptoms occur and when is an operation necessary? In this interview, we talk to Dr René Spalinger, who gives us an insight into modern diagnosis and treatment options. He explains what those affected should look out for, which surgical procedures are used today and how recovery can be optimally supported.
What exactly is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia is a defect in the abdominal wall at an anatomical weak point in the groin area. Tissue from the abdominal cavity can bulge outwards through the abdominal wall.
Why are men particularly affected by an inguinal hernia?
The reason lies in the special anatomy of the abdominal wall in men and the pelvis. However, women can also have inguinal hernias.
What are the causes of an inguinal hernia and are there any preventative measures?
An inguinal hernia is caused by localised tissue weakness. Stressful factors such as carrying heavy loads or increased pressure in the abdominal cavity (e.g. pressing hard when urinating) can favour the development of an inguinal hernia.
How do I recognise an inguinal hernia?
The main symptom of an inguinal hernia is a swelling in the groin area, which can be pushed back into the abdominal cavity. This swelling is sometimes slightly painful.
How do the doctors at Zollikerberg Hospital go about making a diagnosis?
The diagnosis is made clinically. A targeted palpation by the surgeon is almost always sufficient for the diagnosis. Imaging measures are not usually necessary.
What are the possible courses of untreated and treated inguinal hernias?
An untreated inguinal hernia does not disappear by itself. The swelling is often slightly painful and bothersome. In rare cases, the bowel can also become trapped and die off. This makes emergency surgery necessary.
Surgery is the only way to repair an inguinal hernia. The surgical methods used today are very gentle and are often performed on an outpatient basis.
What are the special features of surgical treatment at Zollikerberg Hospital?
At Zollikerberg Hospital, patients are always treated by experienced specialists. We rely on personal care, experience and state-of-the-art technology with human expertise.
What exactly is a hernia?
An inguinal hernia is a defect in the abdominal wall at an anatomical weak point in the groin area. Tissue from the abdominal cavity can bulge outwards through the abdominal wall.
Why are men particularly affected by an inguinal hernia?
The reason lies in the special anatomy of the abdominal wall in men and the pelvis. However, women can also have inguinal hernias.
What are the causes of an inguinal hernia and are there any preventative measures?
An inguinal hernia is caused by localised tissue weakness. Stressful factors such as carrying heavy loads or increased pressure in the abdominal cavity (e.g. pressing hard when urinating) can favour the development of an inguinal hernia.
How do I recognise an inguinal hernia?
The main symptom of an inguinal hernia is a swelling in the groin area, which can be pushed back into the abdominal cavity. This swelling is sometimes slightly painful.
How do the doctors at Zollikerberg Hospital go about making a diagnosis?
The diagnosis is made clinically. A targeted palpation by the surgeon is almost always sufficient for the diagnosis. Imaging measures are not usually necessary.
What are the possible courses of untreated and treated inguinal hernias?
An untreated inguinal hernia does not disappear by itself. The swelling is often slightly painful and bothersome. In rare cases, the bowel can also become trapped and die off. This makes emergency surgery necessary.
Surgery is the only way to repair an inguinal hernia. The surgical methods used today are very gentle and are often performed on an outpatient basis.
What are the special features of surgical treatment at Zollikerberg Hospital?
At Zollikerberg Hospital, patients are always treated by experienced specialists. We rely on personal care, experience and state-of-the-art technology with human expertise.
We are here for you
Hernia surgery with confidence and expertise
Hernias are a common condition that can occur in various places in the abdomen - particularly frequently as an inguinal or umbilical hernia. Our specialists recognise and treat these soft tissue hernias using state-of-the-art, usually minimally invasive procedures. The aim is to completely repair the affected area, often using gentle meshes for stabilisation.
Weitere Beiträge
Counsellor
More than just back pain - modern spinal medicine at Zollikerberg Hospital
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints - but not every diagnosis requires an operation. In this interview, Dr Beat Wälchli, Chief Physician and Head of the Spinal Surgery Clinic at Zollikerberg Hospital, talks about the interdisciplinary approach to treatment, the importance of careful indication and why teamwork and looking at the whole person are key.
Counsellor
Dangerous tiny creatures: Dr Thomas Stangl explains - how to protect yourself from ticks and their diseases
Ticks are widespread in Switzerland, especially in the warmer months - and they can transmit serious diseases that are often underestimated. But how do you recognise a tick bite correctly? When is medical help necessary? And which protective measures are really effective? We spoke to Dr Thomas Stangl, our experienced family doctor at the Hottingen Health Centre. He provides valuable insights and practical tips on the topic of ticks. Read the interview now and find out how you can best protect yourself and your family.
Counsellor
Lipoedema: When heaviness becomes a burden - holistic help for lipoedema
Lipoedema syndrome is a chronic disease of the subcutaneous fatty tissue that often goes unrecognised for years. It almost exclusively affects women and is often mistakenly equated with being overweight or obese. However, lipoedema is an independent, medically relevant diagnosis - with specific symptoms and treatment approaches. Many sufferers struggle with pain, feelings of tightness and a significant reduction in their quality of life. It is particularly distressing that the symptoms are often trivialised or misinterpreted - both in the social environment and in the medical context. Despite the term lipoedema - which suggests swelling (oedema) of the tissue - oedema is not necessarily present. Although this can occur concomitantly, it is not one of the typical characteristics of lipoedema syndrome.