Discrepancies in the Reporting of Hiatal Hernia Size: A Review

Background In the current literature there is a paucity of both standardized diagnostic criteria and accurate methods for determining hernia size. The aim of this review is to describe the most common methods for reporting hiatal hernia size. Methods Literature search using PubMed and Embase databases was performed. After exclusion and screening, 67 articles were analyzed and data were collected on hernia type and subtype, diagnostic method, size reporting method, and the author’s definition of hernia size (measurement protocol). Results Authors publishing on hiatal hernia size employed 8 different methods for diagnosing hiatal hernias and reported data using 7 distinct measurement types. Within individual diagnostic methods there was a further lack of standardization of measurement protocols. Conclusion Our review underscores the critical need for standardized reporting methods in the assessment and reporting of hiatal hernia size. Moving forward, collaboration is essential to establish and adopt standardized guidelines for reporting hiatal hernia size, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.