Related Experiment Videos
Is elective hernia repair worthwhile in old patients?
U Gunnarsson1, M Degerman, A Davidsson
1Department of Surgery, Mora Hospital, Sweden.
The European Journal of Surgery = Acta Chirurgica
|June 12, 1999
Summary
Elective hernia repair in patients over 75 is worthwhile, with high patient satisfaction. Careful patient selection and mesh use for specific hernia types can optimize outcomes and minimize complications.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
- Hernia Repair
Background:
- Hernia repair in elderly patients (75+) presents unique challenges.
- Assessing the value of elective surgery in this demographic is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and patient satisfaction of elective herniorrhaphy in individuals aged 75 and older.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 146 consecutive patients aged 75+ undergoing hernia repair.
- Data collected from case records including patient satisfaction, morbidity, mortality, and surgical variables.
Main Results:
- High patient satisfaction (4.9/5) reported for elective hernia repair.
- Femoral and direct inguinal hernias were more common and prone to recurrence.
- Emergency operations, dementia, and diabetes were linked to reduced short-term survival.
Conclusions:
- Elective hernia repair is highly appreciated and beneficial for elderly patients.
- Optimizing care requires controlling comorbidities and domestic arrangements.
- Mesh is recommended for femoral and direct inguinal hernias to reduce reoperation rates.