Impact of delay in elective inguinal hernia repair on early clinical outcomes in adults: A single-center observational study Impact of delay in elective inguinal hernia repair

Abstract

Aim: In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the short-term clinical outcomes related to the surgical delay of elective inguinal hernia repair based on the observational records of a single center. Material and Method: Consecutive patients scheduled for elective inguinal hernia repair between March and June 2023 were analyzed. Patients were evaluated in two different groups: early (<3 months) and late (>3 months) repair from the date of diagnosis. Follow-up findings (pre-, intra-, and post-operative) were analyzed for different time intervals to see if surgical delay led to adverse outcomes. Results: Patients had similar baseline outcomes in terms of pre-existing conditions, surgical techniques and adverse outcomes. Sixteen patients (59.30%) underwent surgery early (<3 months) and 11 patients (40.70%) underwent surgery 3 months after diagnosis. Delay in surgery did not have a significant effect on the outcomes of the patients. Perioperative findings were similar in both groups. Discussion: Surgical delay does not lead to an increased risk of hernia-related acute life-threatening complications in minimally symptomatic or asymptomatic patients scheduled for elective inguinal hernia repair.