Risk factors for complications in groin hernia surgery: a national register study

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to analyze and identify risk factors for postoperative complications and analyze the relative risk of reoperation for recurrence for respective complication.

Background: The outcome of groin hernia surgery is evaluated mostly by comparing recurrence rates and long-term pain. The aim of this observational population-based registry study was to identify risk factors for postoperative complications and analyze the relative risk of reoperation for recurrence for respective complication.

Methods: Using data from the nationwide Swedish Hernia Register between 1998 and 2009, 150,514 herniorrhaphies were analyzed with respect to postoperative complications occurring within 30 days of surgery.

Results: Risk factors significantly affecting the rate of postoperative complications were laparoscopic repair (odds ratio [OR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24-1.47) and open preperitoneal techniques (OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.15-1.49), with open anterior mesh as reference category. Other significant risk factors were general (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.23-1.37) and regional anesthesia (OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.43-1.63), with local anesthesia as reference category, emergency procedures (OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.43-1.63); recurrent hernia repair (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.27-1.52); femoral hernia (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.14-1.48); aged older than 65 years (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.21-1.31); and duration of surgery exceeding 50 minutes (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.22-1.33).

Conclusions: Open anterior approach and surgery under local anesthesia are associated with less risk of postoperative complications.