Hernia registers and specialization.

Registration of hernia surgery is useful in the demonstration of outcome quality provided reoperation is linked to the primary procedure. Prerequisites for a hernia register are discussed based on Swedish experience. Evidence indicates that register participation reduces reoperation rate and increases costeffectiveness. Monitoring of outcome quality is important for both specialized and nonspecialized hernia surgeons. Registers of the type discussed may assist general surgeons in their efforts to achieve levels defined by experts.