P133 ROBOTIC ASSISTED REINFORCED BIOLOGIC AUGMENTED REPAIR (REBAR) IN INGUINAL HERNIA: TWO-YEAR OUTCOMES

Abstract

Abstract Aim The objective of this study is to identify two-year recurrence and complication rates using robotic assisted reinforced biologic augmented repair (ReBAR) in inguinal hernia repair. Material and Methods A retrospective review identified all robotic inguinal hernia repairs utilizing a reinforced biologic mesh performed by a single surgeon from May 2018 through May 2019. All repairs employed the robotic transabdominal preperitoneal (rTAPP) approach combined with the ReBAR technique. Patients with prior repairs and bilateral hernias were included. All patients were followed post-operatively using secure messaging to assess outcomes, including hernia recurrence and other complications. Results A total of 57 patients undergoing the rTAPP ReBAR were identified. Of these patients, there were 18 bilateral hernias repaired for a total of 75 inguinal hernia repairs. In addition, 5 of the hernias had previously been repaired. Two-year outcomes identified 1 recurrence (1.3%) at 345 days post-operatively and one complication of small bowel obstruction requiring takeback unrelated to the ReBAR. There were no complications of chronic groin pain or seromas in this cohort. Conclusions In conclusion, the two-year recurrence rate in this population of 75 inguinal hernias repaired using the robotic assisted ReBAR was 1.3%. With low recurrence and complication rates, the robotic assisted ReBAR technique appears to be a safe and durable option for inguinal hernia repairs.