New techniques in hernia repair.

The surgical treatment of inguinal and femoral hernias has evolved through several stages to reach a modern and successful era. This success was shared by all our predecessors who contributed some knowledge with respect to anatomy, physiology, and surgery. Although most patients are treated with satisfaction by primary herniorrhaphy, difficult recurrences can also be treated successfully. The special features that characterize the modern treatment of difficult hernias are the preperitoneal approach and the availability of reliable prosthetic materials. Some of the techniques currently available are discussed. They are the femoral umbrella, transversalis fascial replacement, and the fletching. The results have been encouraging. As surgeons, we are behooved to look, assess, and reconsider in order to improve.