Hernia : the journal of hernias and abdominal wall surgery
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Several tools for pain measurement including a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and a Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) are currently used in patients with chronic pain. The aim of the present study was to determine which of these two pain tests performs optimally in patients following groin hernia repair. ⋯ Because of lower scale failure rates and overlapping VAS scores per VRS category, the VRS should be favored over the VAS in future postherniorrhaphy pain assessment. If VAS is preferred, the presented cut-off points should be utilized.
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There is little information available on recurrence rates following primary open inguinal hernia repair in women. Women are less prone to inguinal hernias than men; for the same reason, recurrences after hernia repair may also be lower so that the well-known advantage of using mesh could be lost on them. ⋯ The routine use of mesh for open indirect inguinal hernia repair in women may not be necessary.
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In groin hernia repair studies, chronic pain is a frequently used primary endpoint. However, its impact on daily life activities has been less investigated. Such an outcome is relevant for the patient and surgeon and cannot be extrapolated out of pain scores. The Pain Disability Index (PDI), a questionnaire wherein patients rate their impairment, could reveal the consequences of pain. The PDI was therefore introduced in a trial upon open mesh-based inguinal hernia repair. ⋯ The PDI is feasible in inguinal hernia repair and can be used as an adjuvant in pain measurement. It can identify patients still suffering postoperatively who might otherwise be missed. Furthermore, the PDI could serve as a predictor for chronic pain.
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Aim of this study was to analyze long-term sequelae, risk factors, and satisfaction after inguinal hernia primary repair. ⋯ This study demonstrates that the main problem after inguinal hernia repair remains chronic pain, which was the primary reason of dissatisfaction. The SF-MPQ is feasible and easy to administer to all patients and provides important information about qualitative features of the pain.
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This study was prompted by a complaint from a patient citing he had suffered postoperative pain and scrotal bruising. We audit postoperative pain following inguinal herniorrhaphy and patient understanding of postoperative complications. ⋯ Audit is an important tool in surgical quality assurance for DIH. Small changes in practice with adherence to good protocols can have a marked effect on patients' experience.