Our Summary

This study looked at whether the number of hernia surgeries a surgeon performs each year (their “volume”) and their total surgical experience affects the outcome of the surgery. Specifically, they looked at the recurrence rates of groin and primary ventral hernias, that is, how often the hernia comes back after surgery.

The researchers found that surgeons who perform more than 50 hernia surgeries a year (high-volume surgeons) had lower rates of hernia recurrence. The rates of recurrence were also lower for high-volume surgeons when it came to primary ventral hernias. On the other hand, the recurrence rate seemed to increase when a surgeon did fewer than 25 hernia surgeries a year.

The results suggest that having hernia surgeries performed by high-volume surgeons could lead to better outcomes for patients. The data supports the idea of having individual surgeons specialize in hernia repair.

In simple terms, if you need a hernia operation, it might be better to have it done by a surgeon who does a lot of them.

FAQs

  1. Does the amount of hernia surgeries a surgeon performs annually affect the success of the surgery?
  2. What is the recurrence rate of hernias when performed by a high-volume surgeon compared to a low-volume surgeon?
  3. Could having my hernia surgery performed by a high-volume surgeon lead to better outcomes?

Doctor’s Tip

This is because high-volume surgeons have more experience and may have better skills, leading to lower rates of hernia recurrence. So, when discussing your hernia repair with your doctor, ask about the surgeon’s experience and the number of hernia surgeries they perform each year to ensure you are receiving the best care possible.

Suitable For

Patients who are experiencing symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or bulging at the site of the hernia are typically recommended hernia repair. Additionally, patients with hernias that are causing complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation are also usually recommended for surgery. Overall, patients who are in good health and able to tolerate surgery are good candidates for hernia repair.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of a hernia such as pain, swelling, or a bulge in the affected area.
  2. Patient consults with a healthcare provider who diagnoses the hernia and recommends surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for the surgery.

After hernia repair:

  1. Patient undergoes hernia repair surgery, which can be done through open surgery or minimally invasive techniques.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then discharged home with post-operative instructions.
  3. Patient may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the operated area and will be prescribed pain medication as needed.
  4. Patient is advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a period of time to allow for proper healing.
  5. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor the healing process and check for any signs of complications.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities as advised by the surgeon and may undergo physical therapy to strengthen the abdominal muscles.

Overall, hernia repair surgery can lead to improved quality of life for patients by relieving symptoms and reducing the risk of complications associated with untreated hernias.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hernia repair include:

  1. How many hernia repairs do you perform each year?
  2. What is your experience and success rate with hernia repairs?
  3. What type of hernia do I have and what are the treatment options?
  4. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hernia repair surgery?
  5. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for hernia repair?
  6. Will I need any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  8. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery?
  9. How long will I need to be off work or limit physical activity after the surgery?
  10. How likely is it that the hernia will come back after the surgery, and what can be done to prevent recurrence?

Reference

Authors: Christophersen C, Fonnes S, Andresen K, Rosenberg J. Journal: Hernia. 2022 Feb;26(1):29-37. doi: 10.1007/s10029-020-02359-4. Epub 2021 Jan 6. PMID: 33404970