- 28/01/2026
- by Dr. Pinak Dasgupta
- Blog
Large hernias are a serious health problem. They are not just a bulge on the abdomen. They can cause pain, discomfort, difficulty in daily activities, and long-term complications. Many patients delay treatment due to fear or lack of awareness. However, modern surgery now offers safe and effective solutions for even complex and large hernias.
With advanced techniques like eTEP and TAR surgery, patients can achieve excellent outcomes with faster recovery. Under the care of an experienced Hernia Surgeon in Chennai, large hernias can be treated with precision and confidence.
This blog explains large hernias, why expert care is important, and how eTEP and TAR surgery help in long-lasting repair.
What is a Large or Complex Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscle. While small hernias are common, “large” hernias often involve significant gaps in the abdominal wall. These are frequently seen in patients who have had multiple previous surgeries (incisional hernias) or long-standing untreated conditions.
For these complex cases, a simple “stitch-and-fix” approach is often not enough. This is where specialized procedures performed by a Hernia specialist in Chennai come into play.
Understanding the eTEP Technique:
The eTEP (enhanced View Total Extraperitoneal) technique is a revolutionary approach in minimally invasive surgery. Traditionally, large hernias required long incisions and lengthy hospital stays.
How eTEP Works?
The eTEP technique allows the surgeon to access the space between the layers of the abdominal wall without entering the abdominal cavity where the organs reside. By staying within these layers, the surgeon can:
- Create a larger space to place a high-quality mesh.
- Repair the defect with much more precision.
- Minimize the risk of bowel injury.
As a leading Robotic Surgeon in Chennai, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta utilizes this technique to ensure that patients with large defects get the benefit of “keyhole” surgery, leading to faster healing and less pain.
What is TAR Surgery?
For even larger and more complex hernias, a technique called TAR (Transversus Abdominis Release) is used. This is a type of “Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.”
When the gap in the muscle is very wide, the muscles become stiff and cannot be pulled back together easily. TAR surgery involves a precise release of one of the deeper muscle layers (the Transversus Abdominis).
Benefits of TAR:
- Restores Function: It doesn’t just “plug” the hole; it reconstructs the abdominal wall so your core muscles work properly again.
- Large Mesh Coverage: It allows for the placement of a very large mesh, which significantly reduces the chances of the hernia coming back.
- Better Aesthetics: It helps in restoring the natural shape of the abdomen.
The Robotic Advantage in Hernia Repair:
While these surgeries can be done laparoscopically, the use of Robotic technology has changed the game. Dr. Pinak Dasgupta, an award-winning Robotic Surgeon in Chennai, uses the Intuitive DaVinci Robotic system to perform these complex reconstructions.
Why Robotic Surgery?
- Precision: The robotic arms have a greater range of motion than the human hand.
- 3D Vision: The surgeon sees the tissues in high-definition 3D, allowing for meticulous suturing.
- Ambidextrous Control: Dr. Pinak Dasgupta is known for his ambidextrous surgical skills, which enhance precision during the TAR release.
Choosing the Best Laparoscopic Surgeon in Chennai who is also certified in Robotics ensures you get the most advanced care available today.
Why Choose Dr. Pinak Dasgupta for Your Hernia Surgery?
When searching for the Best GI Surgeon in Chennai, experience and specialized training matter. Dr. Pinak Dasgupta brings over 21 years of surgical excellence to the table.
Professional Excellence
- Experience: He has successfully performed over 5,000 hernia surgeries.
- Academic Prowess: He holds a Post Doctoral Fellowship in Colorectal Surgery and is a Gold Medalist in Endoscopy.
- Global Recognition: Awarded among the Top 10 Most Promising Colorectal Surgeons of India in 2024, his work is recognized at international forums from Korea to Australia.
- Trust: Currently heading the department at GEM Hospital, Chennai, he has trained over 500 surgeons worldwide.
Whether you need a Hernia specialist in Chennai for a primary repair or a complex reconstruction, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta offers a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care.
Recovery and Aftercare:
One of the biggest concerns for patients is the recovery time. Because eTEP and Robotic TAR are minimally invasive:
- Most patients can walk within 24 hours.
- Hospital stays are significantly shorter compared to traditional open surgery.
- There is a much lower risk of wound infections.
However, following the advice of your Hernia Surgeon in Chennai is vital. You will be advised to avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks to allow the mesh to integrate firmly with your tissues.
Conclusion:
A large hernia does not have to mean a lifetime of discomfort or a risky “open” surgery with a long scar. With techniques like eTEP and TAR, and the precision of robotic technology, you can achieve a permanent and functional repair.
If you are looking for the Best Laparoscopic Surgeon in Chennai or a specialized Robotic Surgeon in Chennai, consult with Dr. Pinak Dasgupta at GEM Hospital.

