[Should all asymptomatic inguinal hernias be surgically corrected?]

Abstract

Femoral hernias present a high risk of strangulation and should be treated with surgery as soon as the diagnosis is made. Inguinal hernias present a low risk of strangulation, an argument for surgery only in patients who do not have rapid access to a surgical center. In the other cases, delaying hernia treatment seems to have few advantages in that patients are operated in the end and that during the waiting period, their health is generally poorer than operated patients' health. Other than patients presenting serious co-morbidities or with a short life expectancy, asymptomatic inguinal hernias should be repaired in all patients who so desire. This decision is made in agreement with the patient after he or she has been clearly informed on the risks, the sequelae, and the results of surgery. With bilateral hernias, one of which is symptomatic, it seems preferable to treat both hernias in the same anesthetic time frame. In case of a hernia occurring simultaneously with another intervention, it should be treated only after the patient has given consent.