THE LITERATURE concerning inguinal hernia is voluminous, particularly that on embryology, anatomy and operative procedure. There have been few long term statistical analyses giving adequate evaluation of certain operative procedures which evolved from these developmental and structural studies. The purpose of this communication is to compare the results of Halsted I repairs followed for ten years with those from other clinics and with other procedures.
The recurrence rates following hernia repair are usually based on short term studies, and therefore erroneous opinions are formulated as to the actual number and time of recurrences. Hernia is one of the commonest surgical problems encountered in any age group and in any type of practice. A disease which is found with great frequency should be easily evaluated by statistical analysis. Many surgeons have a fallacious idea of the recurrence rate because of inadequate follow-up study. True evaluation of an operative procedure for a