title: [Regional changes in surgical technique of inguinal hernia in Westphalia-Lippe. Results of surgical quality assurance in Westphalia-Lippe 1993 to 1997 with special reference to laparoscopic techniques].
abstract: Based on the data of the external quality assurance of the Chamber of Physicians of Westphalia-Lippe in 1993-1997, the regional changes of the surgical procedures used for inguinal hernia repair were analysed. An extensive spatial 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.
authors.affiliation: Chirurgische Klinik, St. Anna Hospital, Herne.
authors.forename: M N
authors.initials: MN
authors.lastname: Wente
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Waleczek
authors.forename: M W
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Wenning
mesh_terms: D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care