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Objective:

To estimate the prevalence of residual pain 2 to 3 years after hernia surgery, to identify factors associated with its occurrence, and to assess the consequences for the patient.

Summary Background Data:

Iatrogenic chronic pain is a neglected problem that may totally annul the benefits from hernia repair.

Methods:

From the population-based Swedish Hernia Register 3000 patients aged 15 to 85 years were sampled from the 9280 patients registered as having undergone a primary groin hernia operation in the year 2000. Of these, the 2853 patients still alive in 2003 were requested to fill in a postal questionnaire.

Results:

After 2 reminders, 2456 patients (86%), 2299 men and 157 women responded. In response to a question about “worst perceived pain last week,” 758 patients (31%) reported pain to some extent. In 144 cases (6%), the pain interfered with daily activities. Age below median, a high level of pain …