[Preparation of patients scheduled for inguinal hernia surgery]

In principle, hernias should always be managed surgically. In the event of an acute incarceration, the patient must be referred to hospital immediately, since the condition is lifethreatening. The decision as the type of surgical procedure is made on an individual basis, with preference being given to mesh implantation, which has a clearly reduced recurrence rate. Laparoscopic (expensive) repairs require general anesthesia, and usually a stay in hospital. Open procedures are increasingly being done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. The implantation of a mesh is associated with a quicker resumption of normal activities by the patient.