Editorial methodology
Every page on this site is produced under a defined workflow so patients can see exactly how the information was assembled.
1. Scoping
Topics are prioritized by patient search intent, clinical relevance, and gaps in existing patient education. We favor high-impact decision points (surgery vs. watchful waiting, mesh vs. non-mesh, open vs. minimally invasive).
2. Source selection
Primary sources are peer-reviewed guidelines (AHS, EHS, SAGES), Cochrane reviews, and consensus statements. Secondary sources include society position papers and major textbooks. Marketing materials are never used as sources.
3. Drafting
Drafts are written to a patient-first reading level, avoid promotional language, and clearly distinguish evidence, consensus, and opinion.
4. Medical review
Every clinical page is reviewed by a board-certified surgeon before publication. Reviewer, specialty, and review date are attributed on the page.
5. Update cadence
Clinical pages are re-reviewed at least annually or when new guidelines are released.
Last reviewed: July 2026