What is a certified hernia center? – The example of the German Hernia Society and German Society of General and Visceral Surgery

To date the scientific definition "Hernia Center" does not exist and this term is beeing used by hospitals and private institutions as a marketing instrument. Hernia surgery has become increasingly more complex over the pass 25 years. Differenciated use of the various techniques in hernia surgery has been adopted as a " taillord approach" program and requires intensive engagement with, and extensive experience of, the entire field of hernia surgery. Therefore there is a need for hernia centers. A basic requirement for a credible certification process for hernia centers involves definition of requirements and there verification by hernia societies and/or non-profit organizations that are interested in assuring the best possible quality of hernia surgery. At present there are two processes for certification of hernia centers by hernia societies or non-profit organizations.