ANALYSIS OF CONFIRMED CASES OF INGUINAL HERNIA IN TOCANTINS FROM 2014 TO 2023: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Inguinal hernia (IHN) occurs when a piece of tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak area in the abdominal muscles. The causes of this clinical condition can be multifactorial, involving a combination of anatomical, hereditary and lifestyle factors such as obesity, intense physical exertion, weakness of the abdominal wall, among others. Objectives: In this context, this study aims to outline the epidemiological profile of confirmed cases of inguinal hernia in Tocantins and analyze the variables selected for the study. Methodology: This study is a cross-sectional, descriptive, observational and ecological epidemiological analysis focused on assessing the incidence and trends of inguinal hernia in the state of Tocantins from 2014 to 2023. The information was taken from the Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS). Annual data was collected on the total number of confirmed cases of inguinal hernia. Results: There were 9,931 cases of inguinal hernia in 10 years of analysis in Tocantins. The most affected sex was male and the age group with the most notifications was patients aged 60 to 69. The health regions with the highest mortality rates were Médio Norte Araguaia and Capim Dourado. Total hospital expenditure on diagnosed patients was R$3,898,949.79. Conclusion: The treatment of inguinal hernia depends on the severity of the symptoms, with options ranging from observation in asymptomatic cases to surgery, which is the standard treatment to reduce the risk of complications and recurrence.