The Gilbert classification of groin hernias, widely used to guide choice of open repair technique, stratifies hernias primarily according to which parameters?

• A Size of the internal ring defect and integrity of the posterior inguinal wall (floor) ✓
• B Patient age and body mass index
• C Presence of strangulation and bowel viability
• D Number of previous recurrences and mesh type used

Explanation

Gilbert's system grades types I to V (later expanded) based on two surgical findings: the size of the deep inguinal ring defect and whether the transversalis fascial floor is intact, sloping or frankly deficient. For example, type I has a snug ring with intact floor, while types III and IV have dilated rings with progressively weaker floors. Age, BMI and strangulation do not enter the classification. This grading helps select between simple herniotomy, plug-and-patch, or preperitoneal approaches.

Reference: Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.