Routine Pathological Examination of Hernia Sac; Is it a Workload or Necessary?

The hernia is defined as the passage of an organ or tissue from one anatomical region to another. Hernia sacs are sent to the pathology department, although there is a difference between clinics. Routine microscopic examination of the hernia sac is controversial. While some centers do not recommend a routine microscopic examination in inguinal hernias in adult patients, they recommend them in abdominal wall hernias. Here, the investigators aimed to discuss the pathology results and unexpected histopathological findings who underwent abdominal wall and inguinal hernia operation in the light of the literature. Patients who have operated hernia and sent hernia sac for histopathological examination were retrospectively screened. Emergency and elective operated patients were included. Hernia repairs without pathology were excluded from the study. Patients' gender, age, operation notes, and pathology results were analyzed. Pathology results were analyzed in two groups as expected findings and unexpected findings. In our study, the probability of encountering an unexpected pathological result was found to be quite low in the pathological evaluation of the hernia sac. Although it may cause additional workload and cost, all hernia sacs should be sent to routine pathological examination. The investigators believe that making savings in these areas through further investigation after the decision of the pathologist.

Inclusion criteria

• Emergency operated patients
• Elective operated patients

Exclusion criteria

• Hernia repairs without pathology examinations