Management of complications following inguinal hernia repair

Abstract

This is an exciting time in hernia surgery. Over a century of progress in hernia surgery still finds surgeons in search of the "best repair." The tension-free mesh repair is emerging as the open repair of choice for primary hernia repairs. Results of laparoscopic hernia repairs indicate that this procedure is also an effective repair with low morbidity and complication rates. It is interesting that ongoing studies for both laparoscopic and anterior mesh repairs of inguinal hernias continue to demonstrate lower complication and recurrence rates. These findings indicate that surgeons, regardless of the repair type used, are refining their skills and the procedures in use. Knowledge of groin anatomy, awareness of common complications, and a commitment to their prevention are truly the best "management" of complications.