Laparoscopic Total Extraperitoneal Repair Research Articles

Laparoscopic Single-Site Inguinal Hernia Repair Using a Self-Fixating Mesh.

Background and Objectives:Every year ∼20 million inguinal hernia repairs are completed worldwide. Increased patient access to medical information and education has elicited interest in minimally invasive surgical techniques that obtain improved surgical outcomes and cosmesis. Because of these factors, there is a growing interest in single-incision surgery. Laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) single-incision hernia repair technique has been reported with different meshes used in a tack fixation system. Recently, self-fixating mesh technology has offered the possibility of avoiding tack fixation and potentially avoiding chronic postoperative pain. Self-fixating mesh technology employs monofilament polylactic acid (PLA) creating a microgrip system that provides self-adherence of the mesh to adjacent tissue. This tack-free fixation system provides coverage over the entire myopectineal orifice and surrounding areas where traditional tacks cannot be placed. Self-fixating mesh has also been safely applied in laparoscopic TEP procedures, but this mesh has not been described in single site TEP surgery; possibly because of the potential difficulty with mesh deployment. We sought to determine the technical feasibility of a single-site laparoscopic TEP repair of inguinal hernias and to discuss our techniques and patient short-term outcomes.Methods:Review of a prospectively maintained database of patients who received single-site laparoscopic TEP herniorrhaphy from August 2012 through August 2015. Patient characteristics and demographics and perioperative and postoperative data were analyzed.Results:Thirty-four patients (aged 55.2 ±14.2; 17.6% women) with a mean body mass index of 26.2 ± 3.9 were analyzed. Mean operative time was 99.5 ± 30.5 minutes, 41.2% were left-side repairs, and 50% were bilateral. Estimated blood loss was 18.4 ± 14.1 mL. Recurrent hernias accounted for 14.7% of cases; 32.4% of cases were combination surgeries, most commonly a concurrent umbilical hernia repair. The most common short-term postoperative complication was urinary retention (4 patients). The median length of follow-up was 25 days (IQR 18.75–61.75). Complications occurring at >30 days included hydrocele (2 patients) and stitch abscess (1 patient). Eight (23.5%) patients had complications (surgical or during follow-up). No recurrences or deaths were reported.Conclusions:With comparable operative times, perioperative outcomes, and safety profile, SS-TEP appears to be a safe and effective surgical approach for the management of inguinal hernias in the short term. Furthermore, SS-TEP with a self-fixating mesh is a feasible approach.

Long-term follow-up of laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair in inguinal hernia without mesh fixation

From the current evidence, non-fixation of the mesh (NMF) in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair appears to be a safe alternative for inguinal hernia patients in the short term. This study aims to demonstrate that NMF is as effective in the long term by following up a large number of patients with a mean follow-up of 6years. The primary outcomes are chronic pain and recurrence rate. A thorough review of medical records was conducted from a prospectively maintained database of 538 patients who underwent a laparoscopic TEP inguinal hernia repair by a single surgeon working in Sydney from the year 2005 to 2010. Patient demographics, perioperative outcomes, and postoperative complications were extracted from this database. All these patients were then interviewed using a modified questionnaire based on Franneby et al. [10]. 538 patients had TEP repair between 2005 and 2010. Out of this 11 were excluded as tacks were used for fixation of mesh. Out of the 649 repairs done on 527 patients during this period, 463 hernia repairs in 387 patients could be followed up with a mean follow-up of 6years and 4months. The mean age of patients was 63years. Overall, there were seven (1.5%) recurrences, and the incidence of chronic pain was 1%, however 2.9% patients in total complained of pain. This is the only study in literature having a long-term follow-up of more than 5years for the patients having inguinal hernia repair by TEP technique without mesh fixation. It demonstrates that fixation of mesh with tacks or glue is unnecessary for TEP repair of inguinal hernia.

Is contralateral exploration justified in endoscopic total extraperitoneal repair of clinical unilateral groin hernias - A Prospective cohort study

BackgroundLaparoscopic adult hernia repair has the clinical advantage of allowing the surgeon to explore asymptomatic contralateral inguinal hernia. We conduct a retrospective study to compare the occurrence of contralateral metachronous inguinal hernia (CMIH) after laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair with or without contralateral exploration. MethodsOne hundred and fifty-one consecutive patients undergoing unilateral laparoscopic TEP repair during November 2007 to November 2012 were enrolled into groups with contralateral or no contralateral exploration. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors were recorded then reviewed for analysis. The primary end-point was the occurrence of contralateral inguinal hernia. The patients were regularly interviewed postoperatively at outpatient clinics. ResultsFinally, 68 patients in the exploration group and 46 in the non-exploration group were eligible for analysis. All demographic data, except age, was comparable between the two groups. Twenty-three of 68 (33.8%) in the exploration cohort had at least one occult contralateral inguinal hernia detected and repaired at the time of primary repair. In contrast to the high incidence (6/46, 13%) of CMIH in the non-exploration cohort, there was only one metachronous occurrence (1/68, 1.4%) after negative contralateral exploration at a median follow-up of longer than 3 yrs (p = 0.02). The peri-operative results were comparable between groups regarding operative time, analgesic requirements, complications, and chronic pain. ConclusionsSimultaneous exploration and repair of the incidental defects on the contralateral inguinal region during laparoscopic TEP repair of unilateral inguinal hernia is recommended in selected patients based on its high safety and clinical effectiveness in preventing later CMIH.

Laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair under spinal anesthesia versus general anesthesia: a randomized prospective study.

BackgroundLaparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair is a well-known approach to inguinal hernia repair that is usually performed under general anesthesia (GA). To date, no reports compare the efficacy of spinal anesthesia (SA) with that of GA for laparoscopic hernia repairs. The purpose of this study was to compare the surgical outcome of TEP inguinal hernia repair performed when the patient was treated under SA with that performed under GA.Materials and methodsBetween July 2015 and July 2016, 50 patients were prospectively randomized to either the GA TEP group (Group I) or the SA TEP group (Group II). Propofol, fentanyl, rocuronium, sevoflurane, and tracheal intubation were used for GA. Hyperbaric bupivacaine (15 mg) and fentanyl (10 µg) were used for SA to achieve a sensorial level of T3. Intraoperative events related to SA, operative and anesthesia times, postoperative complications, and pain scores were recorded. Each patient was asked to evaluate the anesthetic technique by using a direct questionnaire filled in 3 months after the operation.ResultsAll the procedures were completed by the allocated method of anesthesia as there were no conversions from SA to GA. Pain was significantly less for 1 h (P<0.0001) and 4 h (P=0.002) after the procedure for the SA and GA groups, respectively. There was no difference between the two groups regarding complications, hospital stay, recovery, or surgery time. Generally, patients were more satisfied with SA than GA (P<0.020).ConclusionTEP inguinal hernia repair can be safely performed under SA, and SA was associated with less postoperative pain, better recovery, and better patient satisfaction than GA.

Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal Repair in a Pediatric Patient for Recurrent Inguinal Hernia

Abstract Introduction: Laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repairs are common in adults but have not previously been reported in the pediatric population. This video, with a run time of 4 minutes 46 seconds, demonstrates an effective laparoscopic TEP repair in a 10-year-old boy presenting with a recurrent left inguinal hernia after three previous failed anterior repairs, including prior synthetic absorbable mesh placement. Methods: Given the likelihood of significant scarring and possible inguinal floor weakness, an anterior approach was felt to carry a high risk of injury in this patient. We decided to perform a laparoscopic TEP repair to minimize the chance of damage to cord structures with lightweight polypropylene mesh placement to reinforce the repair. Results: Access to the extraperitoneal space is obtained through a 10-mm infraumbilical incision in standard manner; two 5-mm ports are placed lateral to midline to increase the working space in a smaller body habitus. Blunt diss...

Early assessment of bilateral inguinal hernia repair: A comparison between the laparoscopic total extraperitoneal and Stoppa approaches

BACKGROUND:The present clinical trial was designed to compare the results of bilateral inguinal hernia repair between patients who underwent the conventional Stoppa technique and laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair (LTE) with a single mesh and without staple fixation.PATIENTS AND METHODS:This controlled, randomised clinical trial was conducted at General Surgery and Trauma of the Clinics Hospital, Medical School, the University of São Paulo between September 2010 and February 2011. Totally, 50 male patients, with a bilateral inguinal hernia, older than 25 years were considered eligible for the study. The following parameters were analysed during the early post-operative period: (1) The intensity of surgical trauma, operation time, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, white blood cell count, bleeding and pain intensity; (2) quality of life assessment; and (3) post-operative complications.RESULTS:LTE procedure was longer than the Stoppa procedure (134.6 min ± 38.3 vs. 90.6 min ± 41.3; P < 0.05). The levels of CRP were higher in the Stoppa group (P < 0.05) but the number of leucocytes, haematocrit, and haemoglobin were similar between the groups (P > 0.05). There was no difference in pain during the 1st and 7th post-operative, physical functioning, physical limitation, the impact of pain on daily activities, and the Carolinas Comfort Scale during the 7th and 15th post-operative (P > 0.05). Complications occurred in 88% of Stoppa group (22 patients) and 64% in LTE group (16 patients) (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION:The comparative study between the Stoppa and LTE approaches for the bilateral inguinal hernia repair demonstrated that: (1) The LTE approach showed less surgical trauma despite the longer operation time; (2) Quality of life during the early post-operative period were similar; and (3) Complication rates were higher in the Stoppa group.

TRANS-ABDOMINAL PREPERITONEAL AND TOTALLY EXTRAPERITONEAL LAPAROSCOPIC INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR :A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia repair has added to the ongoing debate over the ‘‘best groin hernia repair.’’ There are two basic laparoscopic techniques, trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) and total extraperitoneal (TEP). Our study was carried out to compare these two methods of laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty. Methods: This prospective randomized study was carried out in Surgery Department of Zagazig university hospitals between October 2013 and October 2015 and included 30 patients presenting with primary uncomplicated inguinal hernia. Patients were serially numbered and randomly arranged into two groups; group (A) as TAPP included 15 patients with odd number and group (B) as TEP included 15 patients with even number. All patients were admitted through the outpatient clinic and subjected to detailed history , clinical examination and laboratory work up. Results: Both groups were comparable regarding their demographic profile and hernia characteristics. The majority of hernias were indirect and left sided in both groups. The mean operative time was significantly longer in TAPP group compared to TEP group ( p= 0.045). No major intraoperative complications were recorded apart from minor complications in the form of injury of the inferior epigastric artery ( p= 0.67), pneumoscrotum ( p= 0.62) and surgical emphysema ( p= 0.67) with no significant difference between both groups. Postoperative pain scores recorded the day of surgery were significantly higher in TAPP group patients (p= 0.043) when compared to those in TEP group. They did not however differ significantly between the TEP and TAPP repairs in the 1st postoperative day (p= 0.404). No persistent or serious postoperative complications were recorded apart from mild complications in the form of subcutaneous seroma in the early postoperative period ( p= 0.794) with no significant difference between both groups. The mean postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in TAPP group compared to TEP group ( p= 0.033) . The mean time interval before return to full activities was significantly longer in TAPP group compared to TEP group ( p= 0.038) . Conclusion: Based on this study, laparoscopic TEP and TAPP repair of inguinal hernia is safe and efficacious. we can conclude that TEP was far better procedure compared to TAPP. According to mean operative time, post-operative pain, post-operative hospital stay and return to normal work, all were far better than TAPP. Keywords: Laparoscopy, Total Extra-Peritoneal (TEP) repair, Trans Abdominal Pre Peritoneal (TAPP) repair, Inguinal hernia

It is safe to perform laparoscopic Total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair under spinal anestehisa?

It is safe to perform laparoscopic Total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair under spinal anestehisa?

Use of fibrin glue in preventing pseudorecurrence after laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair of large indirect inguinal hernia.

PurposeSeroma is among the most common complications of laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) for especially large indirect inguinal hernia, and may be regarded as a recurrence by some patients. A potential area localized behind the mesh and extending from the inguinal cord into the scrotum may be one of the major etiological factors of this complication. Our aim is to describe a novel technique in preventing pseudorecurrence by using fibrin sealant to close that potential dead space.MethodsForty male patients who underwent laparoscopic TEP for indirect inguinal hernia with at least 100-mL volume were included in this prospective clinical study. While fibrin sealant was used to close the potential dead space in the study group, nothing was used in the control group. The volume of postoperative fluid collection on ultrasound was compared between the groups.ResultsPatient characteristics and the volumes of hernia sac were similar between the 2 groups. The mean volume of postoperative fluid collection was found as 120.2 mL in the control group and 53.7 mL in the study group, indicating a statistical significance (P < 0.001).ConclusionMinimizing the potential dead space with a fibrin sealant can reduce the amount of postoperative fluid collection, namely the incidence of pseudorecurrence.

The Learning Curve of the Beginner Surgeon with Supervisor for Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal Repair

Purpose: Despite acceptance of laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair for repair of inguinal hernia, it is still considered to require a prolonged learning curve. We hypothesized that there would be differences in the learning curve for laparoscopic TEP repair among beginner surgeons with or without a supervisor. The current study was conducted to observe the learning curve for laparoscopic TEP repair performed by a surgeon without a supervisor. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the consecutive 143 patients was conducted to document patients’ demographics, hernia types, operative time, and operative outcomes after the operation. Patients were divided into 7 consecutive groups, each comprising 20 patients. Results: The mean age of the study population was 52.5 years (± 18.9 SD), ranging from 16 to 89 years. The learning curve of this technique was almost horizontal throughout the time course. The mean operative time was quite stable among each group. Comparison of the mean operation time and the length of hospital stay among each group did not show significant differences. There was one recurrence in group V. Conclusion: The learning curve for laparoscopic TEP repair is not that prolonged if there is an experienced specialized supervisor and opportunities to observe the entire procedure performed by the supervisor are available. It is not the laparoscopic instrument skills but the way the procedure is performed that is important for successful outcomes.

Combined open and laparoscopic technique for extraperitoneal mesh repair of large sac inguinal hernias.

Laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia repair has been confirmed as an effective procedure in several studies but is considered technically demanding. Separating the hernial sac and spermatic cord is difficult when a large sac inguinal hernia is encountered. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a combined open and laparoscopic TEP repair of large sac inguinal hernias. From June 2012 to May 2015, laparoscopic TEP (112 cases) and combined open and laparoscopic TEP (COL-TEP) (44 cases) were performed in patients with large sac hernia. There was no clear definition of large sac inguinal hernia; therefore, we defined a large sac as one with the sac base cranial to or over outer ring that could not be easily resected laparoscopically. Using this definition, the laparoscopic TEP group was divided into a small sac TEP (SS-TEP) group (68 cases) and a large sac TEP (LS-TEP) group (44 cases). Direct hernias were included in the SS-TEP group because the hernial sac was easily dissected laparoscopically. The patient demographics, perioperative parameters, complications, and recurrence were compared between the three groups. No significant differences were found between the groups in mean age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities, number of previous laparotomies, or recurrence rate. Compared with the LS-TEP group, both the SS-TEP and COL-TEP groups had a significantly lower surgical duration (51.4±10.9 vs. 32.8±13.1 and 36.2±11.2min, respectively), conversion rate (13.6 vs. 0 and 0%, respectively), and total complication rate (27.3 vs. 13.2 and 11.3%, respectively). The combined technique was safe and effective for repair of large sac inguinal hernias. The combined technique was associated with decreased technical difficulty, surgical duration, and conversion and total complication rates.

Cyanoacrylate Surgical Glue for Mesh Fixation in Laparoscopic Total Extraperitoneal Hernia Repair

In an attempt to find the ideal surgical technique for mesh fixation during laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair, we evaluate the use of a synthetic surgical glue (N-butyl-cyanoacrylate-Glubran 2) in an effort to reduce postoperative pain and the complications associated with the use of staples. We have prospectively evaluated 61 consecutive patients (73 hernias) with a minimum follow-up period of 18 months and an average of 29.7 months, without any significant complications present. The majority (59%) only required low dosages of painkillers during the first 24 hours after surgery and have not experienced any cases of chronic pain or recurring hernias in the time period described. On the basis of this initial experience, the use of the surgical glue used to repair inguinal hernias with the laparoscopic total extraperitoneal technique has been proved to be a simple and effective surgical method for mesh fixation.

Single-incision laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair for a Grynfeltt hernia: a case report

IntroductionA superior lumbar hernia, which is also known as a Grynfeltt hernia, is a rare abdominal wall defect that can be primary or secondary to trauma or orthopedic surgery. The anatomic location of a lumbar hernia makes diagnosis and repair challenging. We successfully repaired a lumbar hernia using a single-incision laparoscopic total extraperitoneal approach. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of this surgical technique in the treatment of a primary Grynfeltt hernia.Case presentationA 76-year-old Taiwanese man presented to our hospital with a left lower bulging mass noted for over three months. Abdominal computed tomography revealed a left Grynfeltt hernia. We performed a single-incision laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair. Our patient was discharged uneventfully on the fourth day after the operation. There was no evidence of recurrence after six months of follow-up.ConclusionA laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair for a lumbar hernia provides an excellent operative view and minimal invasiveness. The single-incision technique also provides better cosmetic outcomes. Our experience suggests that the single-incision laparoscopic total extraperitoneal approach may be a feasible and safe alterative to conventional approaches in lumbar hernia repair.

Factors influencing on difficulty with laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair according to learning period

PurposeLaparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair of inguinal hernia is technically challenging enough to build high barrier to entry. The purpose of this study was to identify clinical factors influencing technical difficulty with laparoscopic TEP according to learning period.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of 112 adult patients who underwent laparoscopic TEP for unilateral inguinal hernia from January 2009 to September 2013. A technically difficult case was defined as the 70th percentiles or more in the distribution curve of operative time, major complication, or open conversion.ResultsThe rate of body mass index (BMI) above 25 kg/m2 was significantly higher in the difficult group than the nondifficult group in the learning period of laparoscopic TEP (57.9% vs. 26.8%, respectively, P = 0.020). However, in the experience period, it revealed no statistical difference with technical difficulty (31.3% vs. 33.3%, respectively, P = 0.882). In multivariate analysis, BMI (≥25 kg/m2) was identified as a significant independent factor for technical difficulty with laparoscopic TEP in the learning period (odds ratio, 4.572; P = 0.015).ConclusionPatient's BMI (≥25 kg/m2) can create technical difficulty with laparoscopic TEP only in the learning period, but not in the experience period. Therefore BMI could be applied as one of the guidelines for patient selection, especially for surgeons in the learning curve of laparoscopic TEP.

Laparoendoscopic single-site versus conventional laparoscopic total extraperitoneal hernia repair: a prospective randomized clinical trial

This study aimed to compare laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair with conventional laparoscopic TEP repair for the treatment of inguinal hernias. To date, no other studies have compared the LESS and conventional laparoscopic TEP approaches for the treatment of inguinal hernia in a prospective randomized study setting. For this study, 100 patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair were prospectively randomized into either the LESS TEP group or the conventional laparoscopic TEP group. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative factors were recorded. The primary end point was postoperative pain. The patients were interviewed at outpatient clinics at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. The demographic data were comparable between the two groups. The median operative time was longer in the LESS TEP group (63.5 min) than in the conventional TEP group (50.5 min) (p = 0.001). No conversion was performed in either group. The mean pain score 2 h postoperatively during rest was significantly higher in the conventional TEP group than in the LESS TEP group (3.9 vs. 2.6; p = 0.02). The postoperative results were comparable between the groups in terms of analgesic requirements, systemic stress responses, complications, and postoperative convalescence. The LESS TEP technique is associated with a longer operative time but offers the minor benefit of a reduction in immediate postoperative pain.

TEP under general anesthesia is superior to Lichtenstein under local anesthesia in terms of pain 6 weeks after surgery: results from a randomized clinical trial

Persistent pain is common after inguinal hernia repair. The methods of surgery and anesthesia influence the risk. Local anesthesia and laparoscopic procedures reduce the risk for postoperative pain in different time perspectives. The aim of this study was to compare open Lichtenstein repair under local anesthesia (LLA) with laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair (TEP) with respect to postoperative pain. Between 2006 and 2010, a total of 389 men with a unilateral primary groin hernia were randomized, in an open-label study, to either TEP (n=194) or LLA (n=195). One patient in the TEP group and four in the LLA group were excluded due to protocol violation. Details about the procedure and patient and hernia characteristics were registered. Patients completed the Inguinal Pain Questionnaire (IPQ) 6weeks after surgery. [The study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (No. NCT01020058)]. A total of 378 (98.4%) patients completed the IPQ. One hundred forty-eight patients (39.1%) reported some degree of pain, 22 of whom had pain that affected concentration during daily activities. Men in the TEP group had less risk for pain affecting daily activities (6/191 vs. 16/187; odds ratio [OR] 0.35; 95% CI 0.13-0.91; p=0.025). Pain prevented participation in sporting activities less frequently after TEP (4.2 vs. 15.5%; OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.09-0.56; p<0.001). Twenty-nine patients (7.7%) reported sick leave exceeding 1week due to groin pain, with no difference between the treatment groups. Patients who underwent the laparoscopic TEP procedure suffered less pain 6weeks after inguinal hernia repair than those who underwent LLA. Groin pain affected the LLA patients' ability to perform strenuous activities such as sports more than TEP patients.

Internal plug mesh without fixation in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair of inguinal hernias: a pilot study

Mesh fixation is essential in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair of inguinal hernia; however, fixation sometimes causes post-operative pain. This study investigated a novel method of laparoscopic TEP repair without mesh fixation. This study reviewed data from about two-hundred and forty-one laparoscopic TEP repairs on 219 patients, which were performed between December 2004 and October 2005. There were no statistically significant differences in the recurrence rate, seroma formation, and hospital stay. However, the mean operation time was shorter in the internal plug mesh group than the fixation group (p = 0.009), and post-operative pain only occurred in 4 cases in the internal plug mesh group in comparison to 29 cases in the mesh fixation group (p = 0.014). An internal plug mesh without fixation might reduce post-operative pain after laparoscopic TEP repair of an inguinal hernia. Internal plug mesh without fixation may be an alternative method in laparoscopic TEP repair, especially for those involving indirect hernias.

Staple versus fibrin glue fixation in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair of inguinal hernia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Fixation of mesh is typically performed to minimize risk of recurrence in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Mesh fixation with staples has been implicated as a cause of chronic inguinal pain. Our study aim is to compare mesh fixation using a fibrin sealant versus staple fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia and compare outcomes for hernia recurrence and chronic inguinal pain. PubMed was searched through December 2010 by use of specific search terms. Inclusion criteria were laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair inguinal hernia repair, and comparison of both mesh fibrin glue fixation and mesh staple fixation. Primary outcomes were inguinal hernia recurrence and chronic inguinal pain. Secondary outcomes were operative time, seroma formation, hospital stay, and time to return to normal activity. Pooled odds ratios (OR) were calculated assuming random-effects models. Four studies were included in the review. A total of 662 repairs were included, of which 394 were mesh fixed by staples or tacks, versus 268 with mesh fixed by fibrin glue. There was no difference in inguinal hernia recurrence with fixation of mesh by staples/tacks versus fibrin glue [OR 2.13; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.60-7.63]. Chronic inguinal pain (at 3 months) incidence was significantly higher with staple/tack fixation (OR 3.25; 95% CI 1.62-6.49). There was no significant difference in operative time, seroma formation, hospital stay, or time to return to normal activities. The meta-analysis does not show an advantage of staple fixation of mesh over fibrin glue fixation in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. Because fibrin glue mesh fixation with laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair achieves similar hernia recurrence rates compared with staple/tack fixation, but decreased incidence of chronic inguinal pain, it may be the preferred technique.

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Laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair has been accepted as a popular procedure for inguinal hernia repair, but surgeons still encounter technical difficulties owing to unfamiliar pelvic anatomy and limited working space. We sought to estimate the learning curve for laparoscopic TEP repair without supervision. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients scheduled for laparoscopic TEP repair of an inguinal hernia from December 2000 to October 2007. We reviewed medical records for 700 patients. The cases were divided into 8 groups: 20 patients each in groups I-V and 200 patients each in groups VI-VIII. No significant difference in demographic characteristics was identified among the groups. The mean duration of surgery significantly decreased (p < 0.001) in relation to experience; it reached a plateau of less than 30 minutes (mean 28 min) after 60 cases. The mean length of stay in hospital was 0.97 days, reaching a plateau after 20 cases. Six patients were converted to other techniques: 1 patient each in groups III and VIII and 4 patients in group VII. Three recurrences were detected; however, 2 were excluded because the patient had bilateral inguinal hernias. We estimate the learning curve for laparoscopic TEP repair is 60 cases for a beginner surgeon. The presence of an experienced supervisor during the first 60 cases can help prevent unnecessary complications and shorten the duration of surgery.

Comparison of the outcomes between laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal repair and prolene hernia system for inguinal hernia; review of one surgeon's experience

PurposeTo compare the outcomes between laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair and prolene hernia system (PHS) repair for inguinal hernia.MethodsA retrospective analysis of 237 patients scheduled for laparoscopic TEP or PHS repair of groin hernia from 2005 to 2009 was performed.ResultsThe mean age was 52.3 years in TEP group and 55.7 years in PHS group. Of 119 TEP cases, 98 were indirect inguinal hernia, 15 direct type, 5 femoral hernia and 1 complex hernia; Of 118 PHS cases, 100 indirect, 18 direct type. All in TEP group were performed under general anesthesia and 64% of PHS group were performed under spinal or epidural anesthesia. Preoperatively, 10 cases of recurrent inguinal hernia were involved in our study (4 in TEP, 6 in PHS group). The mean operative time was similar in both groups (74.8 in TEP, 71.2 in PHS group), however mean hospital stay (1.6 days in TEP, 3.2 days in PHS group, P = 0.018) and mean usage of analgesics (0.54 times in TEP, 2.03 times in PHS group, P < 0.01), complications (36 cases in TEP, 6 cases in PHS group, P < 0.01) showed statistical differences. There is only 1 case of postoperative recurrence inguinal hernia in PHS group but it has no statistical significance (P = 0.314).ConclusionCompared to PHS repair, laparoscopic TEP repair has some advantages; shorter hospital stay, less frequent need of analgesics; as well as more postoperative complications such as hematoma, seroma, scrotal swelling.