Chronic Post-inguinal Herniorrhaphy Pain: A Patient’s Perspective

Abstract

The importance of a manual on groin pain ultimately resides in improvement of patient outcomes in both the prevention and treatment of this complex problem. The patient’s history is valuable from a diagnostic perspective, as it helps to delineate the type of pain, pathophysiology, probable causes, and reasonable options for treatment. More importantly, it reminds us that the story could be that of our friends, children, spouses, parents, or even one of us. Most patients understand that there are inherent risks and negative outcomes to all surgeries. It is the lack of an informed consent and a clear gap in expectations that make them most upset. While details may vary from patient to patient, the experience and process described in this history are typical and should help us to improve at all phases within the spectrum of care.