Robotic & minimally invasive surgery

Robotic Hernia Surgery: Is This the Future of Hernia Repair?

Reviewed by Dr Goutham Sivasuthan, FRACS — General & Endoscopic Surgeon, Brisbane · June 2026

Robotic hernia surgery is one of the most talked-about developments in modern hernia repair, offering precision, magnified 3D vision and minimally invasive options for selected patients. Here is a plain-English look at what it is, where it helps, and how it sits alongside the laparoscopic (keyhole) and open techniques used every day in Brisbane.

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when tissue, or part of an organ, pushes through a weak point in the abdominal wall. You may notice a lump or bulge, dragging or aching, or discomfort that worsens with lifting, coughing or standing for long periods.

Common types include inguinal (groin) hernias, umbilical hernias, incisional hernias (through the scar of a previous operation) and ventral hernias of the abdominal wall. Dr Goutham assesses and repairs these primary abdominal-wall hernias as part of his general surgery practice.

What is robotic hernia surgery?

Robotic hernia surgery is not performed by a robot acting on its own. The surgeon remains fully in control from start to finish, seated at a console beside the operating table. The robotic system simply translates the surgeon's hand movements into very precise movements of small instruments inside the body, while a magnified 3D camera shows the surgical field in fine detail.

In other words, it is an advanced form of keyhole (minimally invasive) surgery — a refinement of the laparoscopic approach rather than a completely different operation.

Importantly, the robot does not operate on its own. The system has no autonomy and makes no decisions. Every movement is controlled by Dr Goutham from a console beside the operating table, translating his hand movements into precise movements inside the body. The procedure remains fully surgeon-controlled from start to finish.

Why is robotic hernia surgery trending?

Robotic surgery is attracting attention because it can combine several advantages in one platform: high-definition 3D vision, instruments that bend and rotate like a wrist, precise suturing, smaller incisions and improved access to difficult areas of the abdominal wall. For certain complex repairs, that control can make a fiddly operation more straightforward.

Potential benefits of robotic hernia repair

In appropriately selected patients, a robotic approach may offer:

• Smaller incisions than open surgery
• Excellent magnified 3D visualisation
• Precise dissection and suturing
• Careful, accurate mesh placement
• Potentially faster return to normal activities
• A useful option for selected complex or recurrent hernias

These are potential benefits — they depend on the individual case, and similar results are often achieved with a well-performed laparoscopic or open repair.

Which hernias can be treated robotically?

A robotic approach may be considered for inguinal hernias, bilateral (both-sided) groin hernias, umbilical hernias, ventral and incisional hernias, and selected recurrent hernias.

At Upper Edge Surgery, robotic, laparoscopic and open hernia care covers inguinal (groin), femoral, umbilical, paraumbilical, epigastric, incisional, ventral, recurrent and selected abdominal-wall hernias. The most suitable approach for your hernia is discussed at your consultation.

Please note: Dr Goutham does not perform hiatal (paraoesophageal) or parastomal hernia repair, and does not treat diaphragmatic hernias. These are referred to upper-GI or colorectal sub-specialists.

Robotic vs laparoscopic hernia surgery

Robotic and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery are both minimally invasive techniques performed through small incisions. Robotic surgery may provide improved instrument movement and surgeon ergonomics, while laparoscopic surgery remains highly effective, efficient and well-proven for many straightforward hernias. Open repair also remains the right choice in some situations. The technique matters less than matching the operation to the patient.

Is robotic surgery right for everyone?

No. The best approach depends on the type and size of the hernia, any previous surgery, your symptoms, your overall health and your surgeon's experience. For many patients, open or laparoscopic surgery is still the best and safest option. Newer is not automatically better — the right operation is the one chosen for your situation.

What happens on the day of surgery?

Robotic hernia repair is performed under a general anaesthetic. Most procedures take between one and three hours, depending on the complexity of the repair. Many patients return home the same day, while some stay in hospital overnight.

Before you go home, you will be given clear, written instructions for your recovery, covering:

• Pain management
• Wound care
• Driving
• Exercise and activity
• Returning to work
• Lifting restrictions

Recovery after robotic hernia surgery

Recovery varies with the complexity of the repair. Many patients are up and walking on the day of surgery and return to light activities within a few days, although heavier lifting is usually restricted for several weeks while the repair heals. Dr Goutham's rooms provide clear, written aftercare advice so you know what to expect at each stage.

The role of mesh in hernia repair

Mesh is commonly used to reinforce the abdominal wall and reduce the risk of the hernia coming back. Whatever the approach — robotic, laparoscopic or open — careful mesh positioning and secure closure of the tissue layers are what matter most. The type and position of mesh are chosen to suit your hernia and the surgical technique.

The future of hernia surgery

As the technology improves and more surgeons gain experience, robotic-assisted repair is likely to become a more common part of hernia care in Australia. But the principle does not change: the best operation remains the one that is safest and most appropriate for the individual patient. Dr Goutham stays across these developments while offering the proven, minimally invasive and open techniques that suit each person in front of him.

Frequently asked questions

Is robotic hernia surgery safe?

Yes — in appropriately selected patients, and when performed by a trained surgeon, robotic hernia surgery can be safe. As with any operation, it still carries general surgical risks that should be discussed with your surgeon beforehand.

Is robotic surgery better than laparoscopic hernia surgery?

Not always. Robotic surgery may offer advantages in selected complex cases, but laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery remains an excellent, well-proven option for many patients. The better choice is the one suited to your specific hernia.

Will I need mesh?

Most adult hernia repairs use mesh to reduce the risk of recurrence. The type and position of mesh depend on your hernia and the surgical approach, and your surgeon will explain what is planned for your repair.

How long is recovery?

Many patients return to light activities within days, but heavy lifting is usually avoided for several weeks. Your exact timeline depends on the type and complexity of your repair.

Who is suitable for robotic hernia surgery?

Patients with complex ventral hernias, recurrent hernias, bilateral groin hernias or incisional hernias may be considered after an individual assessment. Suitability is always decided case by case.

Last medically reviewed by Dr Goutham Sivasuthan, FRACS (AHPRA MED0002000354) — June 2026. This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Please see your GP or a surgeon about your own situation.

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