Recurrent inguinal hernia. Follow-up study of 100 postoperative patients.

This review of recurrent inguinal hernia evaluates the possible causes of recurrence and the most effective operative procedures for successful repair. Emphasis is placed upon precise dissection technic so that whatever fascia is available after the primary operation may be utilized for the subsequent repair. A detailed study is devoted to the histologic features of fascia, emphasizing its lack of vascularization as the possible reason for its strength and permanency throughout life. In operations for recurrent inguinal hernia, rectus sheath pedunculated grafts should be used more frequently, and in extreme cases cord excision may be required. A follow-up study of one hundred postoperative cases, with a failure rate of 7 per cent, is presented.