Recurrent Inguinal Hernia Research Articles

Features of recurrence and contralateral metachronous inguinal hernia (CMIH) in the patients underwent laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC) for pediatric inguinal hernia.

Recurrence and contralateral metachronous inguinal hernia (CMIH) are important postoperative complications in patients with inguinal hernia (IH) who undergo laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC). This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and causes of recurrence and CMIH after LPEC. Among the included patients, 2484 hernias were included in the analysis of recurrence. CMIH was analyzed in 2094 cases with unilateral IH without a history of contralateral IH. Overall, 21 hernias (0.85%) recurred and seven patients (0.34%) experienced CMIH. Based on the video inspection, injury and skipping of the peritoneum were suspected as the cause of recurrence in eight cases, while loose ligation was suspected in five cases. The cause of recurrence could not be predicted in the remaining eight patients. Of the seven patients with CMIH, three had a mild depression around the internal inguinal ring at the first surgery. In the remaining four CMIH cases, no noteworthy findings were noted around the internal ring. More than half of the recurrences, in which skipping of the peritoneum and loose ligation were suspected, could have been prevented by secure ligation during the first surgery. Extending the indications of prophylactic surgery for shallow depressions may reduce CMIH.

Left inguinal dedifferentiated liposarcoma and primary unclassified sarcoma of the left lung as synchronous multiple sarcomas: a case report

BackgroundPulmonary nodules in patients with soft tissue sarcomas are likely pulmonary metastases, whereas synchronous primary pulmonary sarcomas are rare. Without surgery, determining whether a solitary pulmonary nodule is a primary or metastatic nodule is difficult. Herein, we report a rare case of a primary pulmonary sarcoma that presented synchronously with a primary dedifferentiated liposarcoma.Case presentationA 77-year-old man presented to another hospital with left inguinal swelling and a suspected recurrent inguinal hernia. Computed tomography revealed a left inguinal mass and pure-solid nodule in the left lung and the patient was referred to our hospital for detailed examination and treatment. The inguinal mass was pathologically diagnosed as a dedifferentiated liposarcoma using needle biopsy, whereas bronchoscopic biopsy revealed histological findings suggestive of a sarcoma; however, the primary site could not be determined. Positron emission tomography–computed tomography revealed no high-accumulation lesions except for the two sarcomas. We decided to perform surgery on both sarcomas for diagnostic and curative purposes. The surgical specimens showed that the two sarcomas were different. Based on the immunohistochemical staining findings of MDM2, a left inguinal dedifferentiated liposarcoma and primary pulmonary unclassified sarcoma were diagnosed. The patient displayed no evidence of recurrence 1 year after surgery.ConclusionsWe encountered a rare case of synchronous multiple primary sarcomas, one presenting in the lung and the other in the soft tissue. Surgery was required to achieve a definitive diagnosis for the patient, who achieved disease-free survival at 1 year. This case suggests that proactive resection of pulmonary nodules in patients with soft tissue sarcomas may be feasible as a diagnostic treatment if complete resection is achieved.

INGUINAL HERNIAS: MODERN PRINCIPLES OF CLASSIFICATION

Abstract. Modern herniology is a highly specialized field of surgery that is dynamically developing. High prevalence of hernias and the presence of a number of unresolved questions continue to stimulate further scientific research. Despite the more than age-old history of the development of the doctrine of hernias, new data, including classification, are now emerging that allow us to take a deeper look at the causes and mechanisms of the development of inguinal hernias. In this review, the main forms of classification of inguinal hernias are collected. The history of traditional approaches to the classification of inguinal hernias is reflected. The most justified classification of Nyhus L.M. (1991) as modified by Stoppa R.E. (1998) is described, which makes it possible to compare the results of hernioplasty by domestic and foreign authors. Attention was focused on the classification of inguinal hernias of the European Association of Herniological Surgeons (EHS), which allowed to significantly improve the outcome of patient treatment. The modern classification of recurrent inguinal hernias is described.

Biallelic and monoallelic variants in EFEMP1 can cause a severe and distinct subtype of heritable connective tissue disorder.

Variants in EFEMP1, encoding Fibulin-3, were previously reported as a rare cause of heritable connective tissue disorder (HCTD) with recurrent hernias and joint hypermobility. We report three new cases with biallelic or monoallelic EFEMP1 variants and severe hernia phenotypes. Two male siblings of 10 and 13 years old presented with marfanoid habitus, recurrent inguinal and umbilical hernias, generalized joint hypermobility, and scoliosis. Parents and halfsiblings reported joint hypermobility and umbilical hernias. The eldest boy died at age 16 from incarcerated gastrointestinal herniation complicated by gastric and bowel necrosis with perforation. Autopsy revealed widespread intestinal diverticula. Immunohistochemistry of skin and fascia tissue did not reveal any abnormalities, including normal staining of elastic fibers. Both siblings harbored compound heterozygous likely pathogenic EFEMP1 variants (c.1320 + 2T > A, p.? and c.698G > A, p.Gly233Asp). An unrelated 58-year-old male had marfanoid features, high myopia, recurrent diaphragmatic and inguinal hernias, and chronic gastrointestinal dilatation with severe malabsorption. Both his dizygotic twin-brother and mother had recurrent hernias and high myopia. This man died at 59 years of age, and autopsy showed extensive diaphragmatic herniation, bowel diverticula, and pulmonary emphysema. A heterozygous EFEMP1 splice-variant (c.81 + 1G > A, p.?) was identified, causing exon skipping leading to a start-loss. Targeted genome reanalysis nor RNA-sequencing revealed a second variant at the other allele. The reported individuals expand the clinical and pathological phenotypes of EFEMP1-related disease, a distinct entity within the spectrum of HCTD. The severe and recurrent hernias, gastrointestinal dilatation, and diverticulosis result in an increased risk for life-threatening complications, demanding early recognition and close monitoring.

WP1.11 - Total Extra Peritoneal (TEP) Inguinal hernia repair is safe and feasible for recurrent inguinal hernia post Total Extra Peritoneal repair "TEP on TEP is possible”

Abstract This abstract share our experience in surgical management of recurrent inguinal hernia post total extra peritoneal (TEP) repair by utilizing the same approach TEP. Methods Two patients with recurrent inguinal hernia post TEP were consulted for laparoscopic VS open approach, and both opted for the laparoscopic approach, understanding the higher risk of conversion. Result The first case of 62y male with recurrent left inguinal hernia after bilateral TEP. The second case of 69y male with recurrent left inguinal hernia post lap TEP repair. Standard three lower midline ports technique, no balloon spacer was used. The first and most important step was developing the plane above the previous mesh. 20 ml of 1 % xylocaine and 1/200000 was instilled in the extra peritoneal space to minimize oozing. Separating the previous mesh from the inferior epigastric artery and posterior wall of rectus muscle, down into bony lard marks and cord structures was performed using suction and sharp dissection with minimal diathermy. All landmarks were exposed in the three zones, before utilizing anatomical mesh. Both patients stayed overnight and operation time was 84 and 90 minute respectively. Three months follow up showed no recurrence or significant pain. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is first study describe the use of TEP on TEP. It suggests that TEP should not be excluded in patients with previous posterior mesh repair, emphasizing the importance of proper consultation. The abstract calls for further cases and studies to assess the efficacy and safety of this approach.

EP366 - A single surgeon experience of total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair in a district general hospital

Abstract Methods This was a retrospective review of a prospectively collected and maintained data on elective TEP hernia repairs. All theatre list has been collected prospectively. All patient who had inguinal hernia repair between 2004 and 2021 has been identified from the list. The notes of all Patients who had laparoscopic hernia repair were reviewed including the operative notes, postoperative complications, and any subsequent referral to the surgical department at the Trust to see any recurrence. The data collections included age, sex, type of the mesh, fixing device, primary or recurrent, unilateral or bilateral and conversion to open procedure. Since 2014 all notes were electronic and restored on evolve application. Result All patients records were retrieved from the electronic database system. Out of this cohort, some of patients records were missing. The mesh was not fixed in primary hernia if it was small or medium size, but it was fixed in primary large direct hernia to reduce the risk of blowing in of the mesh inside the defect. Our results showed a recurrence rate with acceptable incidence of post operative pain and wound related complications compliant with the NICE guidance. Conclusion A TEP repair for both primary and recurrent inguinal hernia has a minimal recurrence rate when performed by the specialists in this area giving full attention to the details.

SP1.1 - The effect of mesh fixation on post-operative pain and recurrence in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

Abstract Aims To evaluate post-operative pain and inguinal hernia recurrence following laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) or transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) techniques. Secondly, in TAPP approach to compare outcomes with method of mesh fixation. Methods 545 patients underwent elective laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in a single centre, between October 2015 and April 2023. Surgical approach and method of mesh fixation was obtained from operation note. Patients were contacted retrospectively via telephone call. Post-operative pain was assessed using a scale (1-10). Chronic pain defined as pain persisting beyond 3 months. Hernia recurrence defined as new groin lump at site of previous repair. Results 545 patients underwent surgery. 212 did not answer follow-up call, 43 declined to take part in study and 22 had died. 268 analysed; 167 underwent TEP and 101 TAPP inguinal hernia repair. Groups were similar in age and gender. Initial post-operative pain score in TEP group was 4.7 (range 1-10) as compared with 4.5 (range 1-10) in TAPP group.13.8% experienced chronic pain, score of 2.9 (range 2-5) in TEP group compared with 16.8%, score of 2.7 (range 2-5) in TAPP group. Hernia recurrences were similar between groups; 4.8% and 4% respectfully. Neither mesh-fixation or non-fixation techniques were found to affect post-operative chronic pain (p=0.8). Patients undergoing tacker fixation reported less hernia recurrence, 1.7% and 5.1% respectfully. No significant difference noted between absorbable and metallic tackers in terms of chronic post-operative pain and recurrence. Conclusion Mesh placement without fixation produced similar post-operative pain but a higher hernia recurrence than mesh-fixation techniques.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Recurrence of Inguinal Hernia

Following inguinal hernia surgery, the risk of recurrence is a major clinical concern. The issue involves several recurrent risk factors, including surgery. We have recognized the approach, recurrence, and familial background. Patient-related variables, while not technically complex, have an impact on the risk. Few studies have examined the risk of recurrence following inguinal hernia surgery. The statistical features of inguinal hernia incidence Both initially and later on, in addition to examining the patient's There are several factors that can lead to the failure of inguinal hernia surgery. The thesis includes research on historical and ecological issues. The epidemiologic data for groin hernias nationwide has been revealed. The geographical distribution of groin hernias and the risk of non-technical exposure is being investigated. elements linked to the recurrence of symptoms. According to the results, mundane, Characteristics that are specific to the patient have a significant impact on the risk. The incidence of recurrence following inguinal hernia repair is an important consideration. The rationale behind , combination of factors likely contribute to the recurrence of inguinal hernias, which typically occur in the range of patient-related risk factors, both technical and non-technical, are present. Furthermore, there are various types of groin hernias that can individual pathophysiologies. We need to put this knowledge into practice. utilized in clinical settings to reduce the risk of recurrence.Regarding the design of future studies that investigate recurrence after the consequence of inguinal hernia surgery Methods: All patients admitted to the hospital exhibited groin edema, soreness, or both. We palpated the patient's groins on all sides to look for a hernia, impulse, or scar from a prior procedure. We recorded additional details about the hernia, such as its primary or recurring nature. Results showed that the most prevalent age group was 31–60 years old, and that out of the 140 patients, 79.2% were male and 20.8% were female. While 25.5% of the cases were recurrent hernias, 74.5% were primary hernias. Although a small percentage of individuals experienced swelling for longer than two years, the vast majority experienced it for no more than six months. Incorrect defecation (46.7% of cases) and excessive lifting (52.4%) were the leading causes of hernias. Conclusions In order to aid future research in predicting the occurrence of inguinal hernias, it is necessary to undertake this type of study in every geographical location. Aim of study to show recurrence inguinal hernia after surgery related to epidemiology and risk factors.

Outcomes and complications of open mesh inguinal hernia repair in a district-level hospital in Bangladesh

Background: An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the groin. Open mesh inguinal hernia repair aims to reinforce the abdominal wall with a mesh implant, reducing the risk of recurrence. This study aimed to assess the outcomes and complications of open mesh inguinal hernia repair. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Moulvibazar 250 bed District Sadar Hospital from January, 2022 to July, 2023. As the study subjects, a total of 83 cases who had mesh repair for inguinal hernia were enrolled by using a purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using MS Office tools. Results: In this study, inguinal hernia recurrence was observed in 3 cases (3.6%), with 2 cases (2.4%) requiring reoperation. Intraoperatively, 96.4% (n=80) experienced no complications, while 1.2% (n=1) each suffered from injury to the spermatic cord and neurovascular structures. Postoperatively, over 10% of participants reported complications, including numbness (18.1%), hematoma (16.9%), scrotal swelling (15.7%), and seroma (13.3%). Conclusions: Recurrence and reoperation rates in open mesh inguinal hernia repair are relatively low. However, physicians should remain vigilant regarding potential postoperative complications such as numbness, hematoma, scrotal swelling, and seroma in patients undergoing this procedure.

Application of indocyanine green-labeled fluorescence technology in laparoscopic total extra-peritoneal inguinal hernia repair surgery:a preliminary study

BackgroundLaparoscopic Total Extra-peritoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair(TEP) presents escalated risks of surgical complications, notably bleeding, particularly in European Hernia Society (EHS) types 3 and recurrent inguinal hernia. In this study, we introduced an innovative technique using indocyanine green-labeled fluorescence laparoscopy to mitigate intraoperative complications, including bleeding and rupture of the hernial sac.MethodsThis retrospective study reviewed records of 17 patients who underwent TEP repair at Anqing Municipal Hospital between July and August 2023. Intraoperatively, fluorescence imaging was utilized to trace the pathway of the spermatic vessels and outline the boundaries of the hernia sac to facilitate a thorough dissection.ResultsThe procedure was successfully completed in all 17 patients, with a median operation time of 42 min (range: 30–51 min). Median intraoperative blood loss was 5 ml (range: 3–8 ml). Complete dissection of the hernia sac was achieved in each case without any incidents of sac rupture. Hemodynamic parameters of blood flow within the spermatic artery on postoperative day 1 showed no statistically significant deviations from the preoperative values. Furthermore, during the 7-month follow-up period, there were no cases of seroma formation or hernia recurrence.ConclusionOur findings suggest that employing indocyanine green-labeled fluorescence technology in TEP repair significantly reduces intraoperative complications, notably bleeding and rupture of the hernial sac. This technique demonstrated a negligible impact on the hemodynamic parameters of the spermatic artery and reduced the overall surgical time.

Totally Extra Peritoneal Management of Inguinal Hernia Repair: Our Experience in a Public Sector Hospital

Objective: The study objective is to analyze the clinical effectiveness and efficiency of laparoscopic TEP in our set up and to determine its surgical outcomes regarding incidence of early and late post-operative complications. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted at Surgical Unit II, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi Medical University for 5 years and 6 months from January 2018 to June 2023. After approval from the ethical board, data was collected as a qualitative research study through focus group interviews. Adult patients aged between 20 to 70 years, selected by retrospective consecutive sampling who were presented in surgical OPD with unilateral, bilateral, or recurrent inguinal hernia, underwent laparoscopic TEP hernia repair. Patients were reviewed on 1st post-operative day, during 1st week, and at 6 months to 1 year post-surgery. Data was entered into a standard SPSS sheet version 26. Results: The primary outcomes were evaluated based on early postoperative complications including wound infection, seromas or hematoma, urinary retention and abscess formation or mesh infection, and late complications including recurrence and chronic pain. Clear advantages were observed for the laparoscopic TEP technique regarding early return to normal daily activities due to reduced postoperative complications. Conclusions: The newer advanced concepts in hernia surgeries have proven to have good control over early complications, and postoperative pain, with minimal recurrence. Surgeons should acquire adequate experience and anatomical knowledge before performing this advanced inguinal repair surgery.

Assessment of chronic pain syndrome after laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal plastic surgery in patients with inguinal hernia

Aim. To assess pain syndrome in patients with inguinal hernia after laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) plastic surgery. Materials and methods. The study involved 58 patients with unilateral Nyhus type 2 and 3 inguinal hernia. The patients underwent laparoscopic TAPP plastic surgery using a mesh implant that was not fixed independently. According to the method of graft fixation, the patients were divided into two groups. In the first patient group, staple fixation of the mesh was applied – 28 (48.3 %), the second group – 30 (51.7 %) patients without mesh fixation. Patients with a history of surgical interventions on the abdominal cavity and pelvis, complicated or recurrent inguinal hernia were excluded from the study. Pain syndrome was assessed using the visual analog scale and an independent survey during postoperative follow-ups of the patients every three months for two years. Results. In the assessment of postoperative pain in the first patient group, moderate pain intensity was noted, and it was minimal in the second group, p < 0.001. 9 (32.1 %) patients who underwent mesh implant fixation required opioid analgesics, compared with 4 (13.3 %) patients who did not undergo fixation, p = 0.043. At the first examination, chronic pain was detected in 6 (21.4 %) patients of the first group and in 3 (10.0 %) patients of the second group. During a year, pain syndrome gradually disappeared. After 9 months, pain was reported by 4 (14.3 %) patients in the group with mesh fixation and by 1 (3.3 %) patient without fixation. At the 6th examination in the first group, 2 (7.1 %) patients reported pain; 1 (3.6 %) patient underwent Lichtenstein hernioplasty due to recurrent, increasing acute pain. Conclusions. Laparoscopic TAPP plastic surgery without graft fixation shows a lower possibility of pain syndrome development than with mesh implant fixation. In the case of chronic pain syndrome development following the TAPP technique without mesh fixation, the general condition of patients improves more quickly.

231 A Comparative Study Between Open Pre-Peritoneal Approach Versus Laparoscopic Trans-Abdominal Pre-Peritoneal Approach in Recurrent Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract Aim To compare the open pre-peritoneal approach and Laparoscopic trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal approach in the management of recurrent inguinal hernia which was previously managed through an open anterior approach regarding their intra-operative time, the post-operative outcomes. Method The current study is a prospective cohort study, a single-center trial conducted from June 2021 to June 2022 at Ain Shams University Hospitals. Results There were 74 patients in our study 37 patients in each group. Group (I) underwent an open pre-peritoneal approach and group (II) underwent a Laparoscopic trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal approach. Regarding intra-operative time, the mean time in minutes in the group (I) is 63.33 with a standard deviation of ±11.95. While in group (II) the mean time in minutes is 81.21 with a standard deviation of ±18.03 (p=0.015). Regarding the hematoma occurred in 4(10.8%) patients in group (I). While in 2(5.4%) patients in group (II) (p=0.674). The wound infection was found in 5 (13.5%) patients in group(I) and zero patients in group (II)(p=0.021). Finally, recurrence after one year was found in 3(8.1%) patients in group(I) and 1(2.7%) patient in group (II) (p=0.615). Conclusions The results of this study demonstrate that both approaches are effective for recurrent inguinal hernia following anterior approach mesh hernioplasty, with comparable results. Laparoscopy has been associated with a lower rate of recurrence and overall complications compared to open technique, however, it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the preferred option due to its lengthy learning curve and difficulty to perform.

Comparative Study of Laparoscopic and Open Techniques for Repairing Recurrent Bilateral Inguinal Hernias

Comparative Study of Laparoscopic and Open Techniques for Repairing Recurrent Bilateral Inguinal Hernias

Complications in single-incision laparoscopic surgery transabdominal preperitoneal (SILS-TAPP) for inguinal hernia

Objective: Single-incision laparoscopic surgery transabdominal preperitoneal (SILS-TAPP) inguinal hernia (IH) repair represents an innovative advancement in minimally invasive surgical techniques. However, there have been concerns about the complication rate of this technique. We aimed to systematically review the complications of SILS-TAPP in detail. Methods: We comprehensively searched the published literature between 1980 and 2022 on Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Proquest. Studies of IH patients aged < 18 who underwent SILS-TAPP were included. The results must include the intraoperative and/or postoperative complications rate of surgery. Studies not in English, studies of patients who underwent another surgery apart from hernia repair, and review articles were excluded. The abstract and full-text screening were done. Results: Primary search on a major database platform gained 348 records of articles. After screening, 9 studies were included. Nine studies recruited 1561 patients. Men were dominant. Recurrent IH accounted for about 4%. Two studies reported using specialized laparoscopic instruments (Roticulator), while the other eight used conventional instruments. No major intraoperative complications were reported. Blood loss was minimal. There was only one case wherein an additional trocar was placed. Postoperative complications were observed in about 5% of cases, including seroma, hematoma, urinary retention, port site infection, ileus, foreign body sensation, and port site hernia. Recurrence was rare, accounting for about 0.3%. Conclusion: Complications of SILS-TAPP are not frequent and mild. The recurrent rate is small. Therefore, SILS-TAPP can be a good alternative for open and laparoscopic hernia repair.

Trans rectus sheath extra-peritoneal procedure (TREPP) for inguinal hernia repair under local anesthesia with sedation in the outpatient clinic: a feasibility study.

The Trans Rectus Sheath Extra-Peritoneal Procedure (TREPP) is an open procedure in which the mesh is placed in the preperitoneal space and is therefore associated with less chronic post-operative inguinal pain. TREPP is primarily performed under general or spinal anesthesia, however, it is also possible to perform under sedation and local anesthesia with potentially advantages. This retrospective feasibility pilot study investigates the safety and efficiency of TREPP under local anesthesia in the outpatient clinic in comparison with Lichtenstein. Between 2019 and 2022, all patients who underwent an elective inguinal hernia repair under local anesthesia in the outpatient clinic operation theatre were assessed. 34 patients in the TREPP group and 213 patients in the Lichtenstein group were included. Outcomes were complications, operating time, theatre time, and early inguinal hernia recurrence within 8 weeks and 6 months post-operatively. No significant differences in complications such as wound infection, hematoma, seroma, urine retention and early recurrence between TREPP and Lichtenstein were found. Post-operative pain at 8 weeks was not significantly higher after Lichtenstein (8.8% vs. 18.8%, P = 0.22). Operating time (21.0 (IQR: 16.0-27.3) minutes vs. 39.0 (IQR: 31.5-45.0) minutes, P < 0.001) and theatre time (37.5 (IQR: 30.8-42.5) minutes vs. 54.0 (IQR: 46.0-62.0) minutes, P < 0.001) was significantly shorter for TREPP. This pilot study showed that TREPP appears to be feasible to perform safely under local anesthesia with comparable complication rates and substantially shorter operation time than Lichtenstein. These results justify further research with a larger study population and a longer period of follow up in order to provide firm conclusions.

LAPARASCOPIC VERSUS OPEN MESH REPAIR FOR RECURRENT INGUINAL HERNIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background: Inguinal hernia is one of the most common conditions seen in clinic, and is often treated through the general surgery department. Laparoscopic repair and open repair with mesh are the typical treatments for inguinal hernia, and both regimens have proved beneficial in treating inguinal hernia. However, recurrence, with a rate as high as 33, poses a significant problem to the effective treatment of inguinal hernia. The aim: This study aims to show about laparascopic versus open mesh repair for recurrent inguinal hernia. Methods: By comparing itself to the standards set by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020, this study was able to show that it met all of the requirements. So, the experts were able to make sure that the study was as up-to-date as it was possible to be. For this search approach, publications that came out between 2013 and 2023 were taken into account. Several different online reference sources, like Pubmed and SagePub, were used to do this. It was decided not to take into account review pieces, works that had already been published, or works that were only half done. Result: In the PubMed database, the results of our search brought up 10 articles, whereas the results of our search on SagePub brought up 60 articles. The results of the search conducted for the last year of 2013 yielded a total 2 articles for PubMed and 14 articles for SagePub. The result from title screening, a total 1 articles for PubMed and 10 articles for SagePub. In the end, we compiled a total of 7 papers. We included five research that met the criteria. Conclusion: The laparoscopic approach is superior to the open mesh approach for the repair of recurrent inguinal hernia in some aspects, including the incision infection rate and length of hospital stay. However, more high-quality studies on the effects of laparoscopic and open mesh repair for the treatment of recurrent inguinal hernia are warranted.

Polyurethane-based three-dimensional printing for biological mesh carriers

Repair and reconstruction of the myopectineal orifice area using meshes is the mainstay of surgical treatment of inguinal hernias. However, the limitations of existing meshes are becoming increasingly evident in clinical applications; thus, the idea of using three-dimensionally (3D)-printed biological meshes was put forward. According to the current level of the 3D printing technology and the inherent characteristics of biological materials, the direct use of the 3D printing technology for making biological materials into finished products suitable for clinical applications is not yet supported, but synthetic materials can be first printed into 3D form carriers, compounded with biological materials, and finally made into finished products. The purpose of this study was to develop a technical protocol for making 3D-printed biomesh carriers using polyurethane as a raw material. In our study: raw material, polyurethane; weight, 20–30 g/m2; weaving method, hexagonal mesh; elastic tension aspect ratio, 2:1; diameters of pores, 0.1–1 mm; surface area, 8 × 12 cm2; the optimal printing layer height, temperature and velocity were 0.1 mm, 210–220 °C and 60 mm/s. Its clinical significance lies in: (1) applied to preoperative planning and design a detailed surgical plan; (2) applied to special types of surgery including patients in puberty, recurrent and compound inguinal hernias; (3) significantly improve the efficiency of doctor-patient communication; (4) it can shorten the operation and recovery period by about 1/3 and can save about 1/4 of the cost for patients; (5) the learning curve is significantly shortened, which is conducive to the cultivation of reserve talents.

Open vs. robot-assisted preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. Are they truly clinically different?

IntroductionInguinal hernia repair lacks a standard repair technique, with laparo-endoscopic and open preperitoneal methods showing similar outcomes. Despite higher costs, the popularity of robotic surgery is on the rise, driven by technological advantages. Controversies persist in comparing open repair techniques with the robotic approach, given contradictory results. The objective of this study was to compare postoperative outcomes, including complications, chronic pain, and recurrence, between open and robotic-assisted preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.MethodsThis single-center retrospective study encompassed patients undergoing elective inguinal hernia repair in a specialized unit, employing both open preperitoneal and robotic-assisted laparoscopic approaches from September 2018 to May 2023. Comparative analysis of short- and long-term outcomes between these techniques was conducted. Additionally, multivariate logistic regression was employed to explore predictors of postoperative complications.ResultsA total of 308 patients met the inclusion criteria. 198 (64%) patients underwent surgery using an open preperitoneal approach and 110 (36%) using robot-assisted laparoscopy. Patients in the robot-assisted group were younger (P = 0.006) and had fewer comorbidities (P < 0.001). There were no differences between the groups in terms of postoperative complications (P = 0.133), chronic pain (P = 0.463) or recurrence (P = 0.192). Multivariate analysis identified ASA ≥ III (OR, 1.763; 95%CI, 1.068–3.994; P = 0.027) and inguinoscrotal hernias (OR, 2.371, 95%CI, 1.407–3.944; P = 0.001) as risk factors of postoperative complications.ConclusionsBoth open preperitoneal and robotic-assisted laparoscopic approaches show similar outcomes for complications, chronic pain, and recurrence when performed by experienced surgeons. The open preperitoneal approach, with its quicker operative time, may be advantageous for high-comorbidity cases. Treatment choice should consider patient factors, surgeon experience, and healthcare resources.

Comparison of epidemiological, clinical and surgical characteristics of patients with and without recurrence of inguinal hernia after surgery of the Naval Medical Center

Comparison of epidemiological, clinical and surgical characteristics of patients with and without recurrence of inguinal hernia after surgery of the Naval Medical Center