[Repair of inguinal hernia--a determination of the current status]

Inguinal hernias show a considerable variability in size and morphology. Hernia repair can be performed with good results using standard procedures or techniques with prosthetic mesh implantation. However, recurrence and complication rates have to be reduced further. To achieve that goal we propose a concept of stage adjusted hernia repair: Small indirect hernias: Zimmermann repair or transversalis fascia hernioplasty (Shouldice, Lotheissen-Mc Vay). Large indirect hernias: transversalis fascia hernioplasty or prosthetic mesh. Direct hernias: prosthetic mesh or transversalis fascia hernioplasty. Recurrent hernia: large mesh or transversalis fascia hernioplasty.