[Surgical strategy for hiatal hernias]

The indications for surgical treatment of hiatus hernias differentiate between type I and types II, III and IV hernias. The indications for a type I hernia should include a proven reflux disease but the indications for surgical treatment of types II, III and IV hernias are mandatory due to the symptoms with problems in the passage of food and due to the sometimes very severe possible complications. The primary aims of surgery are the repositioning of the herniated contents and a hiatoplasty, which includes a surgical narrowing of the esophageal hiatus by suture implantation. In addition, depending on the clinical situation other procedures, such as hernia sac removal, mesh implantation, gastropexy and fundoplication can be considered. There are various approaches to the repair, all of which have individual advantages and disadvantages. An adaptation to the specific needs situation of the patient and the expertise of the surgeon is therefore essential.