A qualitative study of groin hernia management in adolescents.

Abstract

Introduction: Groin hernias in adolescents are rare and their management is associated with challenges for surgeons as some adolescents are fully grown, whereas others are not. Current groin hernia guidelines only differentiate between young children and adults; hence, no guidelines exist that may aid surgeons in handling adolescents. The aim of this study was to explore surgeons' considerations on the management of groin hernias in adolescents.

Methods: We conducted a qualitative study using pilot-tested individual semi-structured interviews. The participants were surgical specialists with experience in groin hernia repair in adolescents aged 10-17 years. Data were analysed using content analysis where essential quotes were extracted from transcripts and coded, categorised and interpreted into themes.

Results: Sixteen surgeons were included. Their considerations were reflected in four themes: 1) mesh-related concerns, 2) watchful waiting, 3) growth and 4) lack of evidence and guidelines. Surgeons performed sutured repairs on adolescents who are still growing due to concerns about mesh-related complications. A watchful waiting strategy was used by some to postpone surgery until adolescents were fully grown, thereby enabling mesh repair. Methods for evaluating growth varied and were not standardised. Finally, surgeons highlighted the need for evidence and guidelines to support their decision-making.

Conclusions: This study found a lack of consensus and uniformity on the management of groin hernias in adolescents. Increased research efforts producing clinical guidelines are needed.

Funding: This study was funded by the Michaelsen Foundation, the Aage and Johanne Louis-Hansens Foundation, Direktør Emil C. Hertz and Hustru Inger Hertz' Foundation, and the Torben and Alice Frimodts Foundation. The funders had no role in the design, conduct or reporting of the study.

Trial registration: not relevant.