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01-12-2008 | Review

The measurement of chronic pain and health-related quality of life following inguinal hernia repair: a review of the literature

Authors: P. van Hanswijck de Jonge, A. Lloyd, L. Horsfall, R. Tan, P. J. O’Dwyer

Published in: Hernia | Issue 6/2008

Abstract

Background and methods

This study reviews the existing literature examining chronic pain and health-related quality of life (HRQL) outcomes in hernia repair studies. A PubMed/Medline and Embase search was carried out to identify relevant papers. Studies meeting pre-specified inclusion/exclusion criteria were included and fully reviewed. Reference lists were scanned for additional studies. Only studies examining chronic (>3 months) post-operative inguinal hernia repair (IHR)-related pain were included in this review.

Results and conclusions

Twenty-three studies were identified. The majority of studies used the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain measurement and the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 (SF-36) for the measurement of HRQL. A reasonably consistent picture emerged from the literature, with the HRQL domains most often affected by pain (social functioning/mental health). Estimates of the prevalence of chronic pain and discomfort following IHR vary widely between studies. This is probably a reflection of the range of methods used for measuring pain, many of which do not have established psychometric properties. Our review suggests that a proportion of patients experience chronic pain and discomfort, which has a significant impact on HRQL. However, the current instruments used in the evaluation of chronic pain after IHR are not comparable and standardisation is required.

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Title: The measurement of chronic pain and health-related quality of life following inguinal hernia repair: a review of the literature
Authors: P. van Hanswijck de Jonge
A. Lloyd
L. Horsfall
R. Tan
P. J. O’Dwyer
Publication date: 01-12-2008
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Hernia / Issue 6/2008
Print ISSN: 1265-4906
Electronic ISSN: 1248-9204
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10029-008-0412-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The measurement of chronic pain and health-related quality of life following inguinal hernia repair: a review of the literature

Abstract

Background and methods

Results and conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background and methods

Results and conclusions

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