When it comes to hernia repair, patients today have more options than ever before—thanks to advancements in robotic-assisted surgery. Dr. Audrey Ertel, a General Surgeon at St. Elizabeth is helping patients recover faster and feel better with this innovative approach.
“A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall,” explains Dr. Ertel. “We commonly repair hernias, remove gallbladders and perform bowel surgeries. Robotic surgery is helping us do these procedures with greater precision and less disruption to the body.”
What Is Robotic Hernia Surgery?
Robotic hernia surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions and advanced robotic tools controlled by the surgeon from a nearby console. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires a large incision, robotic surgery allows for tiny incisions, 3D visualization and enhanced dexterity—leading to better outcomes for patients.
“Some of the complex hernia repairs we used to do with large incisions can now be done through very small cuts,” says Dr. Ertel. “The robot helps us do more minimally invasive procedures than we’ve ever been able to do before.”
Benefits for Patients
Robotic-assisted hernia repair offers several key advantages:
- Smaller incisions mean less scarring and reduced risk of infection.
- Less post-operative pain allows patients to recover more comfortably.
- Faster recovery times help patients return to daily life sooner—often within one to two weeks for simple repairs.
- Improved precision reduces the chance of complications and recurrence.
Empowering Patients Through Education
Dr. Ertel believes in preparing patients for every step of their surgical journey. “I try to give patients a general idea of what day one, two, three and four are going to feel like,” she says. “That way, they know what to expect and how to make recovery easier.”
Her top tips for healing after surgery? “Drink plenty of fluids, stay active and eat lots of protein,” she says. “These simple steps make a big difference.”
Is It a Hernia? Know the Signs and Take the Next Step
Hernias can cause discomfort, pain and even serious complications if left untreated. Common symptoms include a visible bulge, aching or burning sensations and pain when lifting or straining. While some hernias may seem minor, they can worsen over time and may require surgical repair.
At St. Elizabeth, Dr. Audrey Ertel and her team use robotic-assisted techniques to treat hernias with greater precision and less downtime. “The robot has allowed us to do more minimally invasive procedures than we’ve ever been able to do before,” she says. “Even complex hernia repairs can now be done through very small incisions.”
If you think you might have a hernia, don’t wait. Early evaluation can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.
Take our quick Hernia Screening Questionnaire to see if you may benefit from a consultation.
Medically reviewed by Audrey Ertel, MD on 09/17/2025.
