Hernias: New options for management

It used to be easy, if unpleasant. A man noticed a bulge in his groin, his doctor diagnosed it as a hernia, and a surgeon was asked to repair it. This 1-2-3 approach was simple and straightforward, but it has given way to a more complex strategy. There are still three steps to consider, but now each is a question: Should the hernia be repaired? Which repair is best? And, what type of anesthesia should be used?

Men who prefer the good old way can let their doctors proceed in a 1-2-3 fashion. But other gents should first understand the anatomy of a hernia, then grapple with the pros and cons of each decision.