Inguinal Hernia: Epidemiological Profile of Hospital Morbidity in Brazil (2016–2025) and the Role of Physiotherapy in the Postoperative Period

Abstract

Introduction: Inguinal hernia involves the protrusion of intra-abdominal contents through a defect in the abdominal wall of the inguinal region; it is one of the most prevalent surgical conditions in clinical practice and a significant cause of hospital morbidity worldwide. Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile of hospital admissions for inguinal hernia in Brazil from 2016 to 2025, identifying characteristics related to the disease's occurrence, sociodemographic distribution, and care-related aspects, while also discussing the contribution of postoperative physical therapy—highlighting its role in restoring functional capacity, reducing complications, and improving the quality of life for patients undergoing surgical repair. Methods: An epidemiological study using data from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS)—specifically hospital morbidity data from the Unified Health System (SUS)—applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and subsequently tabulating data covering the 2016–2025 period. Results: During the analyzed period, 1,525,980 hospital admissions for inguinal hernia were recorded, showing an upward trend over the historical series and peaking in 2024. A predominance was observed in the 60–69 age group (20.54%), followed by individuals aged 70–79 (19.21%), highlighting a higher incidence among the elderly; this aligns with literature linking aging to the weakening of the abdominal wall. There was a predominance of males, with 1,310,617 admissions (85.9%), reflecting anatomical and pathophysiological factors that increase men's susceptibility to developing inguinal hernias. Regarding race/color, the highest numbers were recorded among individuals of mixed race (*pardos*) (46.84%), followed by white individuals (34.27%), mirroring Brazil's demographic distribution. Regarding the type of care provided, elective admissions predominated (1,251,579), indicating greater access to scheduled surgical treatment and lower risks of complications compared to emergency surgeries. In this context, postoperative physical therapy plays a fundamental role in functional recovery by facilitating early mobilization, preventing respiratory and thromboembolic complications, managing pain, and ensuring a safe return to activities of daily living. Conclusion: The epidemiological profile of inguinal hernia in Brazil shows a higher incidence among men, the elderly, individuals of mixed race (*pardos*), and elective procedures. These findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and timely access to surgical treatment, while highlighting the role of physical therapy as an essential component of multidisciplinary postoperative care, contributing to faster recovery, reduced complications, and improved patient quality of life.