Dear patients,
Welcome to Hernia Specialists Vienna – your experts for modern hernia surgery.
We are Dr. Viktor Frieders-Justin and Dr. Benjamin Glaser – board-certified specialists in general and visceral surgery with a long-standing focus on abdominal wall hernias. As hernia specialists in Vienna, we offer you the full spectrum of modern hernia surgery: from inguinal hernias to incisional and umbilical hernias, through to complex abdominal wall reconstructions – minimally invasive, robot-assisted, or open, depending on what is best for you.
We stand behind the quality of our work with our name – and with the quality seal of the German Hernia Society (DHG).
We invite you to learn more about us and the possibilities of personalised hernia care. Your health matters to us, and we look forward to welcoming you to our practice at Kaiserstraße 26, 1070 Vienna.
“Strong abdominal walls are our passion.”
Dr. Viktor Frieders-Justin & Dr. Benjamin Glaser, Hernia Specialists, Vienna
Abdominal Wall Hernias
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when abdominal contents (e.g., bowel or fatty tissue) protrude through a weak spot in the surrounding abdominal wall musculature. This often results in a visible bulge or swelling that may become larger with pressure or exertion.
The most common type is the inguinal hernia (groin hernia), followed by incisional hernias after previous surgeries and hernias of the anterior abdominal wall (umbilical hernia, epigastric hernia). Hernias can occur in various areas of the body and may be congenital or develop over time due to muscle weakness, aging, or physical strain.
Typical symptoms include a feeling of pressure or pain in the affected area, a palpable bulge, and an increase in discomfort when coughing, straining, or lifting.
Hernias are often uncomfortable, but usually not immediately dangerous.
However, in rare cases, bowel or fatty tissue can become trapped – a condition known as incarceration. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate presentation to a hospital emergency department. Signs of incarceration include sudden severe pain, hardening of the hernia, and redness or warmth of the overlying skin.
Hernias are primarily treated surgically, but in selected cases conservative (i.e., non-surgical) management may also be an option. This depends on factors such as the size of the hernia, symptoms, and individual health status. Whether surgery is necessary in your case and which approach is most suitable will become clear in the course of a thorough history-taking and physical examination.
Types of Hernias and Their Treatment
Inguinal hernia / Groin hernia
An inguinal hernia – also known as a groin hernia – is the most common type of abdominal wall hernia and usually presents as a visible swelling or bulge in the groin area. Inguinal hernias affect men more frequently than women but can occur at any age.
Inguinal hernias usually require surgical treatment. Depending on the findings and your preferences, we use the following methods:
Open techniques:
The procedure is performed through an approximately 6 cm incision in the groin. In most cases, a synthetic mesh is used for reinforcement (Lichtenstein procedure). In selected cases, the inguinal hernia can also be repaired without mesh using a multilayer suture technique (Shouldice procedure). We primarily choose open techniques when a minimally invasive approach – for example due to previous surgeries – is not possible or not desired. For patients who wish to avoid general anesthesia for medical or personal reasons, we also offer this procedure under local anesthesia.
Minimally invasive techniques:
The standard procedure for inguinal hernias is minimally invasive repair using a synthetic mesh. We use the so-called TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal Patch): access is gained laparoscopically through the abdominal cavity, which is inflated with CO₂, and the procedure is performed through three small incisions measuring 5–12 mm. The mesh is placed preperitoneally – meaning between the peritoneum and the abdominal muscles. The advantages: faster recovery, less pain, and fewer wound healing complications. In selected cases, we also use the Da Vinci Xi surgical robot.
Anterior abdominal wall hernias / Ventral hernias (Umbilical hernia & Epigastric hernia)
Umbilical hernias and epigastric hernias are among the most common hernias of the anterior abdominal wall. An umbilical hernia develops in the area of the navel – a natural weak point of the abdominal wall. An epigastric hernia occurs along the midline between the navel and the breastbone. If symptoms occur, surgery is the treatment of choice.
Open surgical techniques:
The skin incision is made directly in the area of the hernia. Small hernias up to 1 cm are closed with a slowly absorbable suture. Larger hernias are reinforced with a mesh in accordance with current guidelines to minimize the risk of recurrence (the reappearance of the hernia). We offer proven methods of preperitoneal (PUMP) and retromuscular mesh placement (MILOS) – both characterized by particularly small skin incisions.
Minimally invasive techniques:
For larger hernias, mesh repair can also be performed using minimally invasive techniques. Through several incisions of approximately 10 mm, the hernia defect is closed from the inside and a mesh is placed either preperitoneally or retromuscularly. These methods include laparoscopic procedures (eMILOS, eTEP) as well as robot-assisted interventions (ventral TAPP, TARUP).
This allows the abdominal wall to be reinforced in a particularly gentle way using very large meshes. Which method is suitable for you depends on the type and size of the hernia, as well as your personal preferences and overall health – this is something we will discuss together at our practice in Vienna.
Incisional hernias
Incisional hernias develop as a late consequence of abdominal surgery when a new hernia forms in the area of a previous abdominal wall incision. They can become very large and, according to current guidelines, usually require mesh repair.
As with ventral hernias, treatment can be performed using either an open or minimally invasive approach. In the case of large hernias with a defect larger than 8 cm, preoperative preparation of the abdominal wall – for example with targeted injections – may be necessary. In complex cases, additional procedures such as component separation (partial release of the lateral abdominal wall muscles) may be required. When appropriate, we also use the Da Vinci Xi surgical robot. Incisional hernias are one of our main areas of expertise – especially in complex or previously operated cases, we are your specialist in Vienna.
Rectus Diastasis
Rectus diastasis – also known as abdominal muscle separation or diastasis of the rectus muscles – describes the separation of the straight abdominal muscles (musculi recti abdominis) along the midline (linea alba). It commonly occurs during or after pregnancy, but may also develop with age or increasing abdominal girth.
Typical symptoms include a visible bulge in the center of the abdomen – particularly when the abdominal muscles are tensed – and in some cases back pain or a general feeling of weakness in the abdominal wall.
Treatment begins with physiotherapy to strengthen the abdominal musculature. Surgery is only considered after a trial of conservative treatment or in cases of significant physical impairment. If rectus diastasis is combined with a hernia, we recommend simultaneous mesh reinforcement of the entire anterior abdominal wall – as rectus diastasis is considered a risk factor for further hernias.
State-of-the-Art Surgical Methods – Da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot
State-of-the-Art Surgical Methods – Da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot
The Da Vinci Xi surgical robot represents the next generation of minimally invasive hernia surgery. Thanks to its high-definition 3D camera system and instruments with seven degrees of freedom, it enables procedures with a level of precision that cannot be achieved with conventional laparoscopic methods – allowing us to perform even complex hernia repairs minimally invasively that previously required large open incisions.
We are both certified in the Da Vinci Xi and have together completed over 320 robot-assisted procedures. We use the Da Vinci Xi at Klinik Donaustadt for both major abdominal surgeries and specialized hernia operations – including large incisional hernias, complex ventral hernias, and selected inguinal hernias. At the Wiener Privatklinik – Vienna Private Clinic (WPK), we additionally have access to the Da Vinci X.
Not every hernia procedure requires robotic assistance. Whether we operate using a robot, laparoscopically, or open is decided together with you – individually, based on your findings, your preferences, and our experience. Our goal is always the safest and least invasive approach for you.
When Should a Hernia Be Operated On?
When Should a Hernia Be Operated On?
Whether a hernia should be operated on depends on various factors – and is always an individual decision that we make together with you. Surgery should be considered when:
- Symptoms such as pain, pressure, or other discomfort are present.
- The hernia is growing or has already reached a relevant size – in this case we recommend prompt evaluation.
- The hernia affects quality of life or limits everyday activities.
- Aesthetic concerns: in some cases, the decision to undergo surgery may also be made for aesthetic reasons if the hernia is perceived as unsightly.
A medical emergency exists when bowel or fatty tissue becomes trapped in the hernia – a condition known as incarceration. Signs include sudden severe pain, hardening of the hernia, redness or warmth of the overlying skin, and in some cases nausea or vomiting. If this applies to you, please go to a hospital emergency department immediately – do not hesitate.
Ultimately, every decision about whether and how to operate is individual. What is particularly important to us: we will also advise you honestly and directly if surgery is, in our view, not the right course of action. After thorough examination at our practice in Vienna, we are happy to discuss all treatment options and find the best approach together with you.
General Surgery – More Than Hernia Specialists
More Than Hernia Specialists.
general-surgery
More Than Hernia Specialists.
As board-certified specialists in general and visceral surgery with many years of experience at Klinik Donaustadt, we treat a range of surgical conditions beyond our specialization in hernias.
Our additional services include:
- Gallstones – diagnosis and surgical treatment (cholecystectomy)
- Diverticulosis and diverticulitis – inflammation and outpouchings of the colon
- Malignancies of the colon – diagnosis and surgical treatment of colorectal cancer
- Endoscopic evaluation – gastroscopy (upper GI endoscopy) and colonoscopy (lower GI endoscopy)
Patients with oncological conditions are treated in close cooperation with Medino Onko Health Centre (Auerspergstraße 6, 1010 Vienna)
Second Opinions
When facing important surgical decisions, it is worth considering all available information – a second opinion can be decisive. Our many years of experience as specialists at one of Vienna’s largest hospitals allows us to offer you an independent and comprehensive assessment in nearly all areas of visceral surgery.
A second opinion with us offers you:
- Security: Gain confidence in your treatment plan through an independent review.
- Alternative perspectives: Receive different viewpoints and treatment options for your individual situation.
- Decision-making: Make informed decisions based on a broad spectrum of medical knowledge.
The Hernia Specialists – Team & Biographies
Strong Abdominal Walls Are Our Passion
The Hernia Specialists
Strong Abdominal Walls Are Our Passion
Dr. Benjamin Glaser
I was born in Vienna and spent most of my childhood in Donaustadt, where I also attended school. After completing lower secondary education, I decided to attend a higher technical school, which I graduated from with distinction. It was only during my civilian service with the Red Cross that I discovered my passion for medicine, leading me to study human medicine at the Medical University of Vienna. Since I had always enjoyed practical work since childhood and was often said to have a particular manual dexterity, the decision to pursue surgery felt like a natural path for me. After completing my basic medical training, I began my specialist training in surgery at the surgical department of Klinik Donaustadt, where I have continued to work as a specialist surgeon since completing my training. In my free time, I enjoy working on my house, spending relaxing time with my wife and children, or advocating for improved healthcare and better working conditions.
Dr. Viktor Frieders-Justin
Born and raised in Styria, I initially considered studying law or political science. Toward the end of high school, I chose medicine at the Medical University of Graz – inspired in part by the grateful patients I met through my grandfather, himself a surgeon. During my studies, anatomy and surgery fascinated me above all else, laying the foundation for my further career. After graduating, I made the move to Vienna, gaining my first clinical experience at St. Elisabeth Hospital. I completed my surgical specialization at Klinik Donaustadt, where I continue to practice as a consultant surgeon. The immediate help we can almost always provide to our patients is, for me, the most rewarding and fulfilling aspect of our field.
Early in our careers, we both focused on the specialized field of hernia surgery. Together, we introduced new minimally invasive surgical techniques at Donaustadt Clinic and successfully established the Herniamed quality assurance program. As a result, we were awarded the quality seal of the German Hernia Society. Shortly after the introduction of the robotic system at Donaustadt Clinic, we both became certified in robotic-assisted surgery, allowing us to further expand the spectrum of hernia care. Together, we perform around 200 hernia surgeries each year – ranging from simple inguinal hernias to complex abdominal wall reconstructions. Continuous education, as well as critically reviewing and improving our own treatment methods, are essential building blocks for successful treatment.
We are proud to use our expertise and experience every day to help people with abdominal wall hernias – because we are passionate about strong abdominal walls.
Strong Abdominal Walls Are Our Passion
Why Specialization?
Why Specialization?
Hernia surgery has evolved rapidly over the past decades – with a wide range of sometimes highly complex surgical techniques that require in-depth expertise and regular practice. Our specialization in hernias allows us to offer the full spectrum of modern hernia surgery – from simple inguinal hernias to complex abdominal wall reconstruction.
Thanks to our many years of experience and around 200 hernia operations per year, we are able to provide you with a well-founded understanding of all the advantages and disadvantages of surgery. What is particularly important to us: we also give honest advice when surgery is not the right option. A well-coordinated, specialized team means greater safety for you, shorter procedures, and demonstrably better outcomes.
Our follow-up care is carried out in a structured manner as part of the Herniamed quality assurance study – with follow-up examinations after one, five, and ten years. This allows us to continuously monitor our long-term outcomes and consistently improve the quality of our treatment.
Herniamed – Proven Quality
Herniamed is an international quality registry for hernia surgery that systematically collects, analyzes, and documents surgical data. It supports surgeons in monitoring their outcomes, making evidence-based decisions, and benefiting from the experience of a worldwide network of hernia specialists.
As a certified member of the Herniamed network, we register all our procedures and follow up with our patients systematically – at one, five, and ten years. This allows us not only to continuously review our own quality, but also to actively contribute to the advancement of knowledge in hernia surgery.
For our commitment to quality assurance, we have been awarded the DHG Quality Seal “Certified Hernia Surgery” by the German Hernia Society (DHG) – the first level of official certification by the leading professional society for hernia surgery in the German-speaking world.
Articles
Press Releases
Athletic Extreme Performance After Inguinal Hernia Surgery
We congratulate our patient, Christoph Harreither, who achieved an athletic extreme performance just a few weeks after his successful minimally invasive inguinal hernia surgery. He writes to us: 5 […]
Robotics sets new standards in hernia surgery
Robot-assisted surgery fundamentally changes the treatment of hernias: more precise procedures, smaller incisions, and faster recovery for patients. In the video, Dr. Benjamin Glaser explains how modern robotics is […]
Innovative therapy: faster recovery and less pain
A patient at Klinik Donaustadt describes his impressive recovery journey after an innovative hernia treatment. For a long time, he suffered from the physical and emotional strain of a massive […]
Minimally invasive treatment for a massive incisional hernia: a first at Klinik Donaustadt
The hernia specialists at Klinik Donaustadt have expanded the treatment options for particularly large and complex incisional hernias by using state-of-the-art technologies and specialised surgical techniques. This success underscores Klinik […]
Practice
Personalised Care.
Practice
Personalised Care.
Find Us Here
Our office is located at Kaiserstraße 26 in Vienna’s 7th district (Neubau) – within the premises of Dr. Schönfeld’s practice, with entrance via the inner courtyard. The office is easily accessible by public transport via the U3 and U6 underground lines, tram line 5, and the Westbahnhof suburban railway station. Parking is available in the short-term parking zone as well as in nearby parking garages. We care for patients from Vienna and the greater Vienna area – including Lower Austria and Burgenland.
We Are Private Physicians
We offer our services as private physicians without contracts with public health insurance providers. Billing is carried out by means of invoices, which you can submit to your public or private insurance provider. In our experience, our services are at least partially reimbursed by most insurance companies.
Our Fees
For an initial assessment we charge €200 – plus, where applicable, €50–100 for pre-operative consultation and planning. Follow-up appointments and check-ups cost €150, and telemedical consultations €100. The surgery itself is usually billed through your insurance provider. Self-payers receive a detailed cost estimate before any operation. (Gross prices in euros, valid from May 2025.)
Where We Operate
We perform surgeries at three locations in Vienna – depending on your preferences and insurance coverage:
- Donaustadt Clinic (www.klinik-donaustadt.at) – robot-assisted (Da Vinci Xi), laparoscopic, and open surgery
- Rudolfinerhaus Private Clinic (www.rudolfinerhaus.at) – laparoscopic and open surgery
- Vienna Private Clinic – WPK (www.wiener-privatklinik.at) – robot-assisted (Da Vinci X), laparoscopic, and open surgery
