Return to work after hernia repair

Abstract

Background: The development of mesh repairs and the introduction of laparoscopic techniques have decreased recurrence rates of hernia and made the return to usual activities faster. Provided the surgery is uncomplicated and the patient does not need to lift more than 10kg at work, it appears safe to encourage a return to work soon after surgery. Methods: The study involved obtaining data of patients that had open, primary unilateral elective hernia repair surgery from January to June 2015. These patients were operated by all the surgical firms working at Mater Dei Hospital and all were performed by experienced specialists. 100 patients were interviewed over the phone. Results: Age of patients ranged from 20 to 84 years with a median age of 65 years. The absolute majority of patients were males (90 %). 43% of patients were given information about return to work after hernia repair by a senior doctor where 51% advised to return to work 6 weeks after hernia repair. 69% of patients adhered to the advice that they were given. 39% of self-employed patient returned to work earlier than advised as opposed to 26.3% of employed who returned to work before advised.