[Recurrent inguinal hernia. Propositions of classification and surgical strategy]

We reviewed 1005 cases of groin hernia in 932 patients including 113 recurrent hernias. Eighty-seven percent of the patients were seen again one year after surgery for an evaluation of technique, results and complications. The data obtained was used to propose a simple anatomoclinical classification into three types which could be used to orient surgical strategy. Type R1 includes first relapse oblique external reducable hernia of less than 2 cm in non-obese patients: the Lichtenstine-gilbert technique is indicated. Type R2 includes inferior, direct reducable first relapse hernia of less than 2 cm in non-obese patients: the Wantz-Trabucco technique is indicated. Type R3 includes all the other forms: the Stoppa technique, or alternatively laparoscopy, is proposed.