Regional development of the technique for inguinal hernia repair in Westphalia-Lippe. Results of the external quality assurance in Westphalia-Lippe in 1993-1997

Based on the data of the external quality assurance of the Chamber of Physi cians of Westphalia-Lippe in 1993-1997, the regional changes of the surgica l procedures used for inguinal hernia repair were analysed. An extensive sp atial distribution of the laparoscopic repair, overall increasing from 1.9 % in 1993 to 22.0 % in 1997, was observed. This is visualised in geographic maps. The rapid introduction of a new surgical technique without available long-term results should be considered critically.