Is herniography an effective and safe investigation?

AIM

To assess the safety and effectiveness of herniography in adult patients with suspected hernia.

METHOD

The records of all patients undergoing herniography within one unit over a 1 year period were studied retrospectively. A follow-up postal questionnaire was sent out to all patients enquiring about outcome and any complications of herniography.

RESULTS

From a total of 64 patients undergoing a herniogram, 36% were found to have a positive result and 64% a negative result. This study showed a sensitivity rate of 0.94 and a specificity rate of 0.95. There was a 5% major complication rate leading to hospital admission, and 42% of patients described minor complications occurring within 24 hours of herniography.

CONCLUSION

Herniography is a useful diagnostic tool for identification of clinically occult hernias, with good rates of sensitivity and specificity. In most cases it is a safe investigation but it is not without a significant complication rate.