Four successful editions of the Rotterdam Interactive Congress on Hernia (RICH) have been organised in the last few years. The RICH congress has become an established international meeting for interactive discussions on hernia surgery. In this fifth ‘lustrum’ edition the RICH congress will be combined with the Peritoneum and Surgery Society (PnS). This society (previously known as Pax) was founded by general surgeons and gynaecologist from all over the world with an interest in the peritoneum, peritoneal access, postoperative adhesion formation and tumour metastasis.

The terms ‘hernia’ and ‘adhesions’ cover a broad range of entities influencing the professional activities of general surgeons and gynaecologist in many different ways. Abdominal adhesion formation is a complication affecting patients from both specialties resulting in a common interest in this field of research. However, the question remains whether the awareness of the incidence and impact of this frequent complication is sufficient. Many questions are still unanswered: which type of mesh should be used for incisional hernia repair or prolapse surgery and is prevention of incisional hernia possible? Does the dedicated gynaecologist or surgeon make a difference? What is the role of marketing when choosing a mesh or an adhesion prevention agent? What type of pain management should be used after hernia surgery for chronic or acute pain?

Combining the RICH and the PnS society creates a platform where the two most frequently encountered postoperative complications after surgery, abdominal adhesion formation and incisional hernia, will be discussed. This results in a unique concept for interactive discussions for both gynaecological and general surgeons! During this two-day congress all different aspects of adhesions, prolapse and hernia surgery will be addressed.

And of course the social part of the congress will receive considerable attention. On Thursday a dinner party will be held followed by drinks and music giving you the opportunity to discuss the day and meet the other surgeons and gynaecologists in an informal way.

Thank you for your participation,

On behalf of the REPAIR-group,

Hans Jeekel
Johan Lange
Gert-Jan Kleinrensink