Richard Turner1. 1. MBBS (Hons), BMedSc, FRACS, PhD, Professor of Surgery, University of Tasmania School of Medicine; Director, Hobart Clinical School; Consultant General Surgeon, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart. richard.turner@utas.edu.au.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Patients, particularly adult males, commonly present to general practice with groin hernias. Although rarely life-threatening, groin hernias can be associated with considerable morbidity and limitation of earning capacity. General practitioners should be equipped with a sound knowledge of the relevant anatomy, clinical findings and management principles in order to facilitate all aspects of the patient journey. OBJECTIVE: Drawing on evidence from the literature and personal clinical experience, this article seeks to enhance understanding of groin hernias and provide information on what is considered current best practice. DISCUSSION: A number of key points have been generated that will serve to inform the management of patients with groin hernias in the primary care setting.
BACKGROUND:Patients, particularly adult males, commonly present to general practice with groin hernias. Although rarely life-threatening, groin hernias can be associated with considerable morbidity and limitation of earning capacity. General practitioners should be equipped with a sound knowledge of the relevant anatomy, clinical findings and management principles in order to facilitate all aspects of the patient journey. OBJECTIVE: Drawing on evidence from the literature and personal clinical experience, this article seeks to enhance understanding of groin hernias and provide information on what is considered current best practice. DISCUSSION: A number of key points have been generated that will serve to inform the management of patients with groin hernias in the primary care setting.