What is the definition of herniorrhaphy?

Herniorrhaphy refers specifically to the surgical procedure performed to repair a hernia. A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue bulges through an abnormal opening, often in the abdominal wall. During herniorrhaphy, the surgeon will typically close the defect in the muscle or tissue wall to prevent further protrusion of the affected organ, thereby addressing the condition and relieving symptoms caused by the hernia.

Surgical repair of a hernia involves not only the physical closure of the herniated area but may also include reinforcement of the surrounding tissue, sometimes with mesh, to provide additional support. This procedure is crucial for preventing complications such as incarceration or strangulation of the underlying organs, which can lead to serious health issues.

The other options pertain to different medical procedures: the removal of a tumor involves excision, the repair of a muscle focuses on mending muscle injuries or tears, and the injection of medication is related to providing localized treatment. Each of these options represents distinct medical interventions that are unrelated to the specific definition of herniorrhaphy.