Abdominal wall hernias are common ailments, which need surgical management. It is one of the basic problem that a surgical trainee is exposed to in initial stages of his career and has to learn to handle. Since a number of fundamental questions pertaining to the management of hernias continue to be raised appropriate and adequate training is mandatory for successful outcome.

Hernia surgery so far has been performed by General Surgeons. However, in last 2 decades, problems of recurrence of hernia, infection and chronic pain have demanded more attention from surgeons. Newer techniques, evolution of technological advancements, specialized instruments, availability of superior prosthetic materials and proper understanding of anatomy and physiology has revolutionized the thinking on hernia management. A lot of literature is now published to provide evidence-based medicine, which helps surgical fraternity to select an appropriate procedure and an appropriate product for a given patient.

Since introduction and advancement of minimal access surgery, a new era has evolved in management of hernias. Combined with this is the availability of newer anesthetic drugs, epidural anesthesia and concept of daycare surgery.

To cover this wide field, Hernia Societies have been formed in USA, Europe and now in Asia Pacific region. Hernia Society of India is a National Chapter of Asia Pacific Hernia Society with a strong membership of almost 400 surgeons.

To discuss all the above mentioned advancement and to convey them to the practicing surgeons on a scientific platform, first National Hernia Congress & Live Workshop has been organized from 14th to 16th December 2007 at New Delhi.

H G Doctor
President - Hernia Society of India