Welcome to AHC - Austrian Hernia Society

In the beginning of the nineties the suture techniques of Bassini and Shouldice were applied almost universally for the treatment of groin hernia. However, in the last few years the application of laparoscopy and the possibility of mesh implantation have led to a wide range of increasingly complex methods. Since some time we also have numerous surgical methods for the treatment of incisional hernia. This has resulted in a constant re-orientation and optimization of the treatment of these hernias.

The future is likely to bring about further refinement of the individual surgical techniques as well as new methods of treatment. This will require that continued information be provided by a competent authority. The Austrian Society of Surgery founded the Austrian Hernia Society (AHC) in 2003 so that a team of experts could enhance your comprehension of modern surgery for abdominal wall hernia.

However, the AHC does not regard itself as a passive provider of information alone but wishes to support and promote the training and advanced training of colleagues through educational events. A further point of focus of our Society is science and research – from the emergence of abdominal wall hernias to their treatment. Prospective randomized trials (see Zürser Hernia Forum) and basic research on the abdominal wall are being intensively pursued and have already improved the quality of hernia surgery.

In addition to these activities within Austria, the AHC wishes to achieve an extensive international exchange of experience and knowledge. By cooperating with the hernia societies of other countries and being actively involved in the GREPA, international activities including the organization of international hernia conventions will be promoted in order to gain new information about hernia surgery and, eventually, to contribute to its development.

As a member of the AHC you will be able to log into the “Members” section of our home page and read about all activities of the AHC. If you are not a member of the AHC yet and wish to join our Hernia Society, you will find information about free membership under “Members”. If you have questions on the subject of abdominal wall hernia we will be glad to help you.

I hope we will be able to make a significant contribution to hernia surgery within Austria and also worldwide through the activities of the AHC.
With best regards,
Sincerely yours,

Dr. Christian Hollinsky, President of the AHC