Our Summary

The US healthcare system is moving towards paying for the quality of care, rather than the amount of care. This means that payments to health providers are increasingly tied to how well they perform in certain quality measures. As such, it’s important that surgeons, specifically those dealing with ventral hernia repair, understand these quality measures and how they might change in the future.

In this study, websites, databases, and research articles were reviewed to find existing quality measures related to ventral hernia surgery. The researchers also looked at clinical practice guidelines as potential quality measures.

The researchers found 30 quality measures or potential quality measures. Eight potential measures were related specifically to ventral hernia repair, and another 22 measures related to general surgery could also be applied to this type of surgery.

Most of these measures were focused on the results of the surgery (outcomes) and the way the care was delivered (process). None of the measures were related to the facilities or equipment used (structure).

In terms of the National Quality Strategy (NQS) priorities, most of the measures were focused on providing effective clinical care and ensuring patient safety. However, few measures were related to other NQS priorities.

In conclusion, the researchers found that there were gaps in the existing quality measures for ventral hernia surgery. They suggested that addressing these gaps would provide a more balanced way of evaluating the quality of this type of surgery, which is important as the healthcare system moves towards paying for quality rather than quantity of care.

FAQs

  1. What are the quality measures used to evaluate ventral hernia repair surgeries?
  2. How does the shift towards paying for quality of care impact surgeons performing ventral hernia repairs?
  3. What were the identified gaps in the existing quality measures for ventral hernia surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hernia repair is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. This may include avoiding heavy lifting, getting enough rest, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and address any concerns. By following these recommendations, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery from hernia repair surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hernia repair are those who are experiencing symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or a noticeable bulge in the affected area. Additionally, patients with a hernia that is causing complications such as intestinal blockage or strangulation are also candidates for surgery.

Other factors that may influence the recommendation for hernia repair include the size and location of the hernia, the patient’s overall health and medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of the surgery.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo hernia repair surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can assess the individual patient’s situation and provide personalized recommendations based on their specific needs and circumstances.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and potential complications from the hernia
  • Patient consults with a healthcare provider and undergoes diagnostic tests to confirm the hernia
  • Treatment options are discussed, including the possibility of hernia repair surgery
  • Patient schedules surgery and prepares for the procedure, which may include pre-operative tests and evaluations

After hernia repair:

  • Patient undergoes hernia repair surgery, which may be performed using different techniques such as open surgery or laparoscopic surgery
  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then discharged home with post-operative instructions
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and limited activity in the days following surgery
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may require physical therapy to strengthen the abdominal muscles
  • Over time, the hernia site heals and the patient experiences relief from symptoms and improved quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hernia repair surgery?
  2. What type of hernia repair procedure do you recommend for my specific case?
  3. How experienced are you in performing hernia repair surgeries?
  4. What is the expected recovery time after hernia repair surgery?
  5. How will you manage my pain after the surgery?
  6. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  7. What are the success rates for hernia repair surgery in your practice?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  10. What are the potential long-term effects of hernia repair surgery?

Reference

Authors: Sun BJ, Kamal RN, Lee GK, Nazerali RS. Journal: Hernia. 2018 Dec;22(6):1023-1032. doi: 10.1007/s10029-018-1794-0. Epub 2018 Jun 30. PMID: 29961197