Our Summary

This research paper discusses the many different ways surgeons in the Netherlands approach the treatment of an inguinal hernia, a common medical condition that requires roughly 30,000 surgeries each year in that country alone. You might think that there would be one standard way to treat this condition, given its prevalence, but that’s not the case. The method of treatment can vary based on several factors, including the patient’s age and medical history, the specific type of hernia, and the surgeon’s expertise.

The modern method of treating an inguinal hernia was developed in the late 19th century by a doctor named Bassini. His approach involved strengthening the wall of the inguinal canal (the area where the hernia occurs) after putting the hernia and its contents back into place.

Today’s surgeons still follow this basic principle, but there are now many variations of the technique. Some of these variations are named after the surgeon who developed them (like the Shouldice, Lichtenstein and Stoppa techniques), while others are identified by an abbreviation (like TEP, TAPP, TIPP, and TREPP).

The purpose of this paper is to describe the most commonly used techniques in the Netherlands and to clarify the many different names and abbreviations associated with them.

FAQs

  1. What are the different techniques used for inguinal hernia surgery?
  2. How does a patient’s age and history affect the procedure for inguinal hernia repair?
  3. What is the basis of modern inguinal hernia surgery according to Bassini?

Doctor’s Tip

  • It is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing after hernia repair surgery.
  • Avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities for the recommended period of time to prevent strain on the surgical site.
  • Listen to your body and report any unusual symptoms or complications to your doctor immediately.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery progress and address any concerns or questions you may have.
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent future hernias from developing.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hernia repair are those who have an inguinal hernia, which is the most common type of hernia. Factors that may influence the decision to undergo hernia repair include the patient’s age, medical history, the type of hernia, and the expertise of the surgeon. In general, patients who are experiencing symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or a noticeable bulge in the groin area are candidates for hernia repair. Additionally, patients who have a hernia that is causing complications such as incarceration or strangulation may require urgent surgery. Overall, the decision to undergo hernia repair is individualized based on the specific circumstances of each patient.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, and a bulge in the affected area
  • Consultation with a healthcare provider to diagnose the hernia and discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative preparation including tests, medications, and fasting instructions
  • Consent form signed by the patient
  • Anesthesia administered before the surgery

After hernia repair:

  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room post-surgery
  • Pain medication prescribed to manage discomfort
  • Instructions on wound care and limitations on physical activity given
  • Follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor healing and recovery progress
  • Gradual return to normal activities as advised by the healthcare provider

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after hernia repair involves consultation, preparation, surgery, recovery, and follow-up care to ensure successful treatment of the hernia.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of hernia repair procedure do you recommend for my specific case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the recommended procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery period after hernia repair surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative instructions or restrictions?
  5. What is your experience and expertise in performing hernia repair surgeries?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for my hernia?
  7. How successful is the recommended procedure in treating hernias similar to mine?
  8. Will I need any additional tests or evaluations before undergoing hernia repair surgery?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. What is the expected outcome and prognosis after hernia repair surgery?

Reference

Authors: van Hessen CV, Burgmans JPJ, Verleisdonk EJMM. Journal: Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2018;162:D2216. PMID: 29519260