[Convalescence after groin hernia surgery]

Inguinal hernia repair represents one of the most common operations in general surgery worldwide. It is performed either as open surgery using a transinguinal approach or as minimal invasive procedure using a preperitoneal (endoscopic) or transabdominal (laparoscopic) approach, respectively. A mesh is always placed to reinforce the abdominal wall of the groin. Most interventions are nowadays performed in an ambulatory setting, and a short convalescence with early return to daily activities and work is possible. However, postoperative care is not yet widely standardized, and subsequently, off work periods are still often prolonged up to several weeks. This article provides simple recommendations to shorten postoperative convalescence.