Pain that is at least partly disabling appears to occur more often than recurrences. The prevalence of long-term pain can be reduced by preventing postoperative complications. The impact of repair technique on the risk of long-term pain shown in our study should be further assessed in randomized controlled trials.

This study found good validity and reliability for the IPQ, making it a useful instrument for assessing pain following groin hernia repair.

In general, the concordance was poor. These results emphasise the importance of providing detailed information about the usual postoperative course prior to the operation. Whereas the surgeon, from a professional point of view, has a better idea about what should be expected in the postoperative period and how any complications should be categorised, only the patient has a complete picture of the symptoms and adverse events. This makes it impossible to reach complete agreement between the patient's and surgeon's perceptions of complications, even under the most ideal circumstances.

The validity and reliability of the VHPQ make it a useful tool in assessing postoperative pain and patient satisfaction.

Questionnaires provide valuable additional information concerning postoperative complications. We recommend that they become an integrated part of routine postoperative assessment.