Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Management of Groin Hernia Repairs: A Nationwide Population-Based Study From the Swedish Hernia Register

"Watchful waiting" for symptomatic groin hernias due to postponement of elective repairs in men appears safe regarding the risks of emergency repair and severe complications, in contrary to women. While elective repairs can temporally be deferred during crises, careful consideration should be given to women. Given this large-scale study, watchful waiting may not be appropriate for women in future healthcare crises, warranting further investigations.