Inguinal Hernias: Should We Repair?

Abstract

This review examines available data concerning the natural history of treated and untreated inguinal hernias. The incidence of complications with either treatment strategy is discussed using historical information from a time before herniorrhaphy became routine and contemporary data from two recently completed randomized controlled trials comparing routine repair using a tension-free technique with watchful waiting. © 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.