Controversies in Inguinal Hernia

Veeshal H Patel; Andrew S Wright

doi:10.1016/j.suc.2021.06.005

Controversies in Inguinal Hernia

Surg Clin North Am. 2021 Dec;101(6):1067-1079. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2021.06.005.

Authors

Veeshal H Patel¹, Andrew S Wright²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Surgery, University of Washington Medical School, 1959 Northeast Pacific Street Box 356410, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
² Department of Surgery, University of Washington Medical School, 1959 Northeast Pacific Street Box 356410, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Center for VideoEndoscopic Surgery Endowed Professor, University of Washington. Electronic address: Awright2@uw.edu.

PMID: 34774269
DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2021.06.005

Abstract

Inguinal hernias represent one of the most common pathologic conditions presenting to the general surgeon. In surgical practice, several controversies persist: when to operate, the utility of a laparoscopic versus open approach, the applicability of robotic surgery, the approach to bilateral hernias, management of athletic-related groin pain ("sports hernia"), and the role of tissue-based repairs in modern hernia surgery. Ideally, surgeons should approach each patient individually and tailor their approach based on patient factors and preferences. The informed consent process is critical, especially given increasing recognition of the risk of long-term chronic pain following hernia repair.

Keywords: Hernia; Hernia repair; Inguinal hernia; Mesh; Robotic surgery; Sports hernia.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Groin
Hernia, Inguinal / complications
Hernia, Inguinal / surgery*
Hernia, Inguinal / therapy
Herniorrhaphy* / adverse effects
Herniorrhaphy* / methods
Humans
Laparoscopy
Pain / etiology
Robotic Surgical Procedures
Surgical Mesh
Watchful Waiting