Transabdominal Preperitoneal Technique Research Articles

Lichtenstein versus laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair: Retrospective study, our experience

Abstract: Surgical correction of inguinal hernias is the most commonly used surgical procedure in the world. Currently only three surgical techniques have been validated, that is the Shouldice technique, the Lichtenstein technique, and laparoscopic techniques such as transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernioplasty and totally extraperitoneal endoscopic hernioplasty (TEP).The aim of the study: The aim of this study is to show the results in terms of postoperative recovery, complications, length of hospitalization after inguinal hernia surgery in patients who underwent the Lichtenstein and the laparoscopic (TAPP) methods.Material and methods: This is a monocentric, retrospective cohort study, conducted in the period from 2019 to 2023. The research period covered 70 patients who underwent surgery at the Clinic for General and Abdominal Surgery with Glandular Surgery, of the University Clinical Center, Sarajevo. The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1: 20 patients who underwent the TAPP method and Group 2: 50 patients who underwent the Lichtenstein method. All patients underwent surgery performed by two doctors.Results: One woman (1.4%) and 69 men (98.6%) participated in the research. Of the total number, 50 patients (72.5%) were treated with the Lichtenstein technique, and 19 (27.5%) were treated with the TAPP technique (p=0.539). The statistical results did not show a significant difference in the average age between patients who underwent the Lichtenstein and the TAPP technique (T=0.759; p=0.450).Discussion: There was no significant difference in relation to age and type of surgery (T=0.759; p=0.450). There was no statistical difference in the choice of surgical approach in relation to the laterality of the hernia (P<0.001), nor any statistically significant difference between the TAPP and Lichtenstein surgical procedures in relation to BMI T=0.613; p=0.542. Our analyses showed that patients treated with the TAPP technique had a statisticallysignificantly higher probability of shorter postoperative hospitalization compared to those treated with the Lichtenstein technique (B=0.245; p=0.019). Two patients in the study had complications within 30 days (Clavien-Dindo Grade I and Grade IIIB).Conclusion: Using an individual approach for each patient, surgical treatment of hernia using laparoscopic TAPP can be the first choice in patients without comorbidities, without previous pelvic surgery, bilaterality or recurrence of previous surgery (anterior approach). Patients treated with the laparoscopic technique (TAPP) have a shorter hospitalization time, which ultimately affects the economic aspect.

Management of groin hernias in emergency setting: differences in indications and outcomes between laparoscopic and open approach. A single-center retrospective experience

PurposeThe use of minimally invasive groin hernia repair techniques in an emergency setting is still debated and its widespread is limited.The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) technique in the treatment of inguinal and femoral hernias in emergency setting based on our experience, comparing indications and outcomes with the open technique.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed including all patients with incarcerated and/or strangulated groin hernia who underwent emergency surgery from November 2019 to September 2022.Perioperative variables and short- and long-term outcomes were examined.Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test for nominal variables and Student’s t test for continuous ones. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsSixty-six patients were included: 29 patients were treated with TAPP technique (Tapp group) and 37 with open technique plus diagnostic laparoscopy (Open group). Patients in the TAPP group were younger, had less severe clinical scenarios, and had a trend for lower Charlson Comorbidity Index, whereas ASA score and BMI were similar. The small bowel was more frequently herniated in the open group.Bilateral hernia repair was performed in 20.69% of patients in the Tapp group versus 0% in the Open group (p = 0.004). Bowel resection was more frequent in the open group (48.65% vs 0% of the Tapp group, p < 0.001) length of surgery was comparable in the two groups. In the Tapp group, the length of hospitalization was significantly shorter (2.59 ± 2.28 days vs. 9.08 ± 14.48 days; p = 0.023).Postoperative complications, according to Clavien-Dindo, were more severe in Open group where there were two deaths. There were no differences in the number of readmission and re-operations at 30 days and in the recurrence rate.ConclusionsEmergency repair of inguinal and femoral hernias using TAPP is a valuable option, safe and feasible in selected patients. In this series, indications for TAPP were reserved to younger patients with less comorbidities and less severe clinical scenario. Future randomized studies are needed to compare TAPP with open emergency hernia surgery in all settings. Potential advantages of TAPP are the reduction of postoperative complications, earlier recovery, and the possibility of bilateral treatment.

RAWS4all project: validation of a new silicone model for robotic TAPP inguinal hernia repair.

Trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) hernia repair is a complex procedure that presents several challenges. Even though, due to the high prevalence of inguinal hernia, TAPP technique is increasing in frequency and robotic Abdominal Wall Surgery (rAWS) is emerging as a valuable tool in this regard. Although inguinal TAPP procedure principles have been published and simulation is needed, the availability of validated models remains scarce. A new low-cost model was developed to simulate inguinal rTAPP repair. For validity assessment, a new TAPP-specific fidelity questionnaire and assessment scale were developed to compare the performance of novices and experts in the simulated procedure. The models used were assessed at 60min for execution and quality score. Twenty-five residents and specialists from all over the country participated in this study. Execution, quality, and global performance was higher in the seniors group compared to juniors (8.91 vs 6.36, p = 0.02; 8.09 vs 5.14, p < .001; and 17 vs. 11,5, p < .001, respectively). Overall fidelity was assessed as being very high [4.41 (3.5-5.0), α = .918] as well as face [4.31 (3.0-5.0), α = .867] and content validity [4.44 (3.2-5.0), α = .803]. Participants strongly agreed that the model is adequate to be used with the DaVinci® Robot [4.52 (3.5-5.0), α = .758]. This study shows face, content, and construct validity of the model for inguinal TAPP simulation, including for robotic surgery. Therefore, the model can be a valuable tool for learning, understanding, practicing, and mastering the TAPP technique prior to participating in the operating room.

Comparison of Open Lichtenstein Repair and Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal of Inguinal Hernia: A Pragmatic RCT in Bangladesh

Background: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has emerged as an effective alternative to open Lichtenstein mesh repair for inguinal hernias. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to compare the surgical outcomes of laparoscopic trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) and open Lichtenstein mesh repair for the treatment of inguinal hernia. Methodology: This single centered, pragmatic randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Surgery at 300 bed hospital, Narayanganj, Bangladesh from January 2018 to June 2020 for a period of two and half year. Patients who were presented with reducible, primary/recurrent, complete/incomplete inguinal hernias among male and female in more than or equal to 18 years of age were selected as study population. Lichtenstein mesh repair was performed which was compared with the laparoscopy group. Open Lichtenstein repair was done under spinal anesthesia with lightweight poly propylene mesh. Laparoscopy was performed by trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) technique under general anesthesia and heavy weight mesh was used. The hospital stay, operating time, post-operative complications like superficial wound infection, seroma formation, scrotal swelling as well as early recurrence and chronic groin pain were compared among these group. Results: A total number of 90 patients presented with inguinal hernia were recruited for this study of which TAPP was performed in 25 cases and 65 cases were undergone Lichtenstein repair. The mean age of laparoscopy and open group of patients were 49.28±9.9 years and 55.05±14.4 years respectively (p-0.03). The mean operation time was 85±10.31 minutes and 52.1±15.36 minutes in laparoscopy and open group respectively (p-0.000). The mean post-operative hospital stay was 2.9±0.78 days and 2.9±0.71 days in laparoscopy and open group respectively (p-0.94). In this study 21 (23.3%) patients developed 25 different early and late post-operative complications, out of which 15 (23.1%) in open group and 06 (23.3%) in laparoscopy group (p-0.52). One early recurrence was reported after 6 months follow up in laparoscopy group. Chronic groin pain was reported in 7 cases of which 5 (7.7%) cases in open group and only 2 (8.0%) cases in laparoscopy group (p-0.002). Conclusion: In conclusion the surgical outcomes of laparoscopic TAPP performed by a young surgeon in Bangladesh has given a clinically better result than open Lichtenstein repair considering hospital stay, seroma formation, wound infection, scrotal swelling and chronic groin pain. Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research, January 2023;10(1):35-40

Bilateral inguinal hernia repair by laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) vs. laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP)

BackgroundThe guidelines recommend laparoscopic repair for bilateral inguinal hernia. However, few studies compare the totally extraperitoneal (TEP) and transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) techniques in bilateral inguinal hernias. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of TEP and TAPP in bilateral inguinal hernia.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients operated on for bilateral inguinal hernia by TEP and TAPP repair from 2016 to 2020. Intraoperative complications, operative time, acute postoperative pain, hospital stay, postoperative complications, chronic inguinal pain, and recurrence were compared.ResultsA total of 155 patients were included in the study. TEP was performed in 71 patients (46%) and TAPP in 84 patients (54%). The mean operative time was longer in the TAPP group than in the TEP group (107 min vs. 82 min, p < 0.001). The conversion rate to open surgery was higher in the TEP group than in the TAPP group (8.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.008). The mean hospital stay was longer in the TAPP group than in the TEP group (p < 0.001). We did not observe significant differences in the proportion of postoperative complications (p = 0.672), postoperative pain at 24 h (p = 0.851), chronic groin pain (p = 0.593), and recurrence (p = 0.471). We did not observe an association between the choice of surgical technique (TEP vs. TAPP) with conversion rate, operative time, hospital stay, postoperative complications, chronic inguinal pain, or hernia recurrence when performing a multivariable analysis adjusted for the male sex, age, BMI, ASA, recurrent hernia repair, surgeon, and hernia size > 3cm.ConclusionsBilateral inguinal hernia repair by TEP and TAP presented similar outcomes in our study.

Comparative Study between the Use of Self-Fixating Mesh and Non-Self-Fixating Mesh in Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) Technique

Abstract Background Groin hernia repair is considered to be one of the most commonly performed operations by general surgeons however; there is no "gold standard" operation for treatment of inguinal hernias. The optimal surgical approach must be selected individually for the patient, taking into account patient age, hernia size, unilaterality or bilaterality, primary or recurrent status, and type of anesthesia, occupation, and leisure activities. Objective to compare between self fixating mesh and fixation of non self fixating mesh with absorbaple tacks in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approach as regards intraoperative time, complications, postoperative pain, return to normal activity and incidence of recurrence. Patients and Methods Our study is a randomized prospective study. It was conducted in El Demerdash, Ain-Shams University Hospital on 08 patients with inguinal hernia who were operated upon between january 2020 and December 2020 with minimal follow up of 3 months. Results Based on our prospective randomized study, a few preliminary conclusions can be made. There was no significant difference in operative time between patients who underwent self gripping mesh fixation and those who underwent mesh fixation by absorpable tacks in TAPP reapir. The postoperative pain assessment at 1 week, 4 weeks and 3 months shows that no significant difference between the two groups confirming the atraumatic nature of the self gripping mesh. We found that both surgical approaches had almost the same Postoperative Hospital stay where the mean postoperative hospital stay was 1.5 days versus 1.6 days in Group A and Group B, respectively and all patients returned to normal activity with mean time 7 ± 2 versus 8 ± 2 days in Group A and Group B respectively. We found that no statistically difference as regard the recurrence between the use of Self Gripping mesh versus fixation of by non absorpable tacks. Conclusion After this comparative study, both the use of SGM and fixation of mesh by non absorpable tacks approaches are similarly effective in terms of operative time, the incidence of recurrence, complications and chronic pain coinciding with all the available literature.

Assessment of Surgical and Quality-of-Life Outcomes Between Laparoscopic Versus Open Inguinal Hernia Repair in Geriatric Patients.

Introduction: Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgery, especially in the elderly population. However, the decision to perform surgery in elderly patients can be challenging due to higher complication rates. Laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery is less commonly used in the elderly population despite its advantages. In this study, we aimed to investigate the safety and advantages of laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery in elderly patients. Methods: We retrospectively compared the preoperative and postoperative (PO) data and Short Form-36 (SF-36) forms of elderly patients who underwent laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal and open inguinal hernia surgery. The primary outcomes were PO pain scores and complication rates. Results: A total of 79 patients with an age range between 65 and 86 years, who presented with inguinal hernias to Cekirge State Hospital's General Surgery Department between January 2017 and November 2019, were included. Seventy-nine patients underwent laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal technique and Lichtenstein hernia repair. The laparoscopic group had a lower rate of PO complications and less analgesic medication consumption and usage time compared with the open group. Furthermore, compared with the open group, the laparoscopic group had lower PO pain scores and higher SF-36 scores for physical function, physical role, pain, and general health at the 30th and 90th days after surgery. Conclusion: Our study suggests that laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery can be safely performed in elderly patients with lower complication rates and faster recovery times compared with open surgery. The advantages of laparoscopic surgery, such as lower PO pain scores and faster recovery times, were also observed in elderly patients.

Trans abdominal pre peritoneal inguinal hernioplasty: initial experience in resident training service

Introduction: Abdominal wall hernia surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by general surgery departments. The most common techniques currently used are: plastic surgery without mesh (Shouldice), plastic surgery with mesh (Lichtenstein) and laparoscopic plastic surgery (TAPP or TEP). More and more surgical groups are performing laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty. Numerous studies have shown that treatment of inguinal hernias by laparoscopy has recurrence rates comparable to those established by conventional surgery. However, it has been objected that learning laparoscopic surgery is more difficult and longer than that required for the conventional technique. Objectives: To analyze the results obtained in the short and medium term during the initial experience in the development of the transabdominal pre peritoneal technique (TAPP) in a service that trains residents. Materials and methods: We conducted a prospective, observational study of the first 30 patients operated for inguinal hernias according to the TAPP technique in the General Surgery Service of the Hospital Escuela Eva Perón of Granadero Baigorria, during the period from June 2017 to June 2018. Results: 30 patients underwent elective surgery. 28 men and 2 women (93.3% and 6.7%), with a mean age of 51.17 years (range: 21 and 78 years); the mean BMI was 26.86. All were operated by TAPP (transabdominal pre peritoneal) technique. 100% of the surgeries were performed by a resident always accompanied by a staff surgeon. Comorbidities: 9 patients (30%) had arterial hypertension. 3 patients (10%) had asthma and another 3 (10%) had diabetes. 27 were indirect inguinal hernias, 6 were direct and 2 were mixed. 5 patients (16.6%) had a contralateral hernial defect as an intraoperative finding and bilateral hernioplasty was performed. The average anesthetic time was 130 minutes (range 90-180 minutes). Sixty percent of the cases were managed as outpatient surgeries, the remaining 40% were hospitalized for 24 hours because they were admitted to the operating room in the afternoon. Complications: 2 patients (6.66%) presented cord or testicular hematomas. One patient (3.33%) presented infection of the umbilical trocar wound. One patient (3.33%) had recurrence in the immediate postoperative period. Two patients (6.66%) presented chronic groin pain (more than 30 days) of mild intensity, evaluated by VAS (visual analogue scale) and required additional analgesia. There were no conversions from laparoscopic to conventional repair. Seven patients (23.3%) were not working at the time of surgery. Of the remaining 23, 82% returned to their usual work activity one week after surgery. 20 patients (66.6%) went for follow-up one year after the operation and underwent a survey, which showed that 100% of the patients surveyed were satisfied with the operation and would recommend it. Conclusion: Laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasties have a low rate of recurrence and complications, comparable to those obtained with the conventional technique. Likewise, the learning curve is longer, but it is possible to perform it during the training stage as a resident doctor.

Risk factors predicting acute postoperative pain immediately after minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair.

Acute postoperative pain remains one of the most common problems, even after laparoscopic or endoscopic hernia repair. Avoiding predictive factors for acute pain after surgery or prescribing additional analgesia for a patient who has risk factors that cannot be removed can be one of the options to reduce acute postoperative pain. However, there is a lack of clinical studies that evaluate the predictive factors of postoperative pain after transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) surgeries. To identify independent risk factors predicting pain after laparoscopic and endoscopic inguinal hernia repair. A prospective, randomized clinical trial was carried out by randomising patients into 2 groups (TAPP and TEP). Pre-operative and peri-operative findings were recorded. Postoperative pain was evaluated 3 h after the surgery using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Groups of patients who felt mild pain (VAS 0-2) and patients who felt average or severe pain (VAS 3-10) were compared. A total of 132 male patients were included in the study. Disease duration of more than 1 year, smoking, and TAPP surgery significantly increase the risk of moderate and strong pain 3 h after surgery. Conversely, shorter duration of symptoms and physical occupation decrease the risk of acute pain score greater than 3 according to the VAS. The study shows that the duration since groin hernia appearance, smoking, physical occupation, and TAPP technique are possible predictive factors for acute postoperative pain after minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. We suggest that for patients who have those predictors, some factors can be avoided or additional analgesia can be used.

Can ventral TAPP achieve favorable outcomes in minimally invasive ventral hernia repair? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The concept of the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) was transferred from the inguinal hernia repair to be adopted in minimally invasive ventral hernia repair (VHR) and since then it has been gaining popularity. However, there are minimal data supporting the ventral TAPP (vTAPP) technique which may lead to reticence in the adoption of this approach. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the outcomes of patients who received minimally invasive vTAPP for VHR. A systematic search was performed of PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library until July 2022. We selected studies that compared the vTAPP technique with any of other minimally invasive techniques. A meta-analysis was done for the outcomes of perioperative characteristics and postoperative parameters. A total of 9 studies (1429 patients) were identified. vTAPP was associated with considerable benefit when compared to IPOM. vTAPP was less painful (MD = -1.01; 95% CI [-1.39, -0.64], p < 0.00001), of reduced average cost (MD = -457.10; 95% CI [-457.27, -456.92], p < 0.00001) and decreased SSI (OR = 0.29; 95% [0.09, 0.96], p = 0.04). On the other hand, the vTAPP approach consumed less operative time (MD: -31.01, 95% CI [-33.50, -28.51]), p < 0.00001) and shorter hospital stay than the e-TEP approach. vTAPP appears to be safe and effective procedure for VHR, superior or similar to other minimally invasive techniques for perioperative characteristics and short-term outcomes.

Pain After Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) or Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP) Technique for Unilateral Inguinal Hernia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

IntroductionLaparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is the most commonly performed surgery in many hospitals. This study aimed to compare the outcome of the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) techniques in unilateral, uncomplicated inguinal Hernia.Material and methodsThis prospective randomized study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in North India from November 2018 to March 2020. Sixty-eight male patients of unilateral, uncomplicated inguinal hernia were enrolled for laparoscopic hernia repair. The first group of 34 patients underwent TAPP repair and the second group of 34 patients underwent TEP repair under general anesthesia (GA). Both groups were compared for intraoperative or postoperative complications, analgesic requirements, postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, resumption of routine activity, and patient satisfaction scores. Fisher's exact test or Chi-square test were used for nominal data and the median or interquartile range was used for ordinal data.ResultsThe mean operative time for TAPP was more than that for the TEP group (101 vs 76, p<0.001). The TAPP group exhibited significantly less postoperative pain at six hours, 24 hours and seven days than TEP (p<0.001) and an insignificant difference at three months of the follow-up period (p=0.188). Additional analgesics requirement was less in the TAPP group, although the difference was not significant (p=0.099). Seroma formation was found in four patients (11.8%) in the TEP group and two patients (5.9%) in the TAPP group (p= 0.672). Length of postoperative hospital stay (p=0.907), resumption of routine activity (p=0.732), and patient satisfaction scores (p=0.492) during follow-up were similar in both groups and were also insignificant.ConclusionThe TAPP technique is slightly better than TEP for inguinal hernia in terms of lesser postoperative pain with similar chances of complications and other outcomes.

Implementation and Validation of a Novel and Inexpensive Training Model for Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop and validate a reproducible low-cost model useful for the development and acquisition of skills and competencies required for endoscopic hernia repairs. Methods: Ten general surgery residents (PGY3) were instructed to construct the model and perform the maneuvers necessary for the simulation of laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty by the trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) technique. They practiced for 4weeks in the model, and the time required to perform simulated hernioplasty by the laparoscopic TAPP technique in the initial session was compared to the time required after 4weeks of training. Results: The time required to perform the exercise was significantly lower than in the initial session (p < 0.01). The time required by residents to complete the exercise in the initial session was significantly longer than that used by expert surgeons in the same task (p < 0.01), and although a significant difference persisted, this difference was substantially reduced to 3.60min after the residents completed 4-week training in the model (p < 0.01). An independent expert, blinded to the level of training of the person who performed the exercise, could recognize all residents as novices and all experienced surgeons as experts in the initial session of the exercise with the model, but after 4 weeks of training, they did not recognize 4 of the 10 residents as novices (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The routine implementation of training in this model could be very useful in the laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty teaching-learning process.

Lichtenstein versus transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) inguinal hernia repair for unilateral non recurrent hernia: A multicenter short term randomized comparative study of clinical outcomes

BackgroundThe repair of inguinal hernia is still one of the most prevalent surgical procedures done worldwide. Among all repair techniques, open Lichtenstein repair is the most globally conducted. In the past few decades, laparoscopic technique for inguinal hernia repair has increased technical demand. Trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) technique is the main approach, which is featured by less postoperative pain and early recovery. ObjectiveThe current work is a short-term study to make a comparison between open Lichtenstein repair of inguinal hernia as well as laparoscopic trans-abdominal preperitoneal repair of inguinal hernia (TAPP) for unilateral non recurrent hernia regarding intraoperative, postoperative complications and hospital stay. Patients and methodsThe present prospective randomized study recruited 100 male subjects from General Surgery Department of Al-Azhar University Hospitals and Ain Shams university hospitals suffering from oblique inguinal hernia (unilateral non recurrent hernia) with an age above 18 years and good overall health, who were randomized into two groups: Group A: 49 cases were subjected to laparoscopic trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal repair (TAPP). Group B: 51 cases were subjected to open Lichtenstein repair. ResultsThis study detected less post-operative pain day 0, day 1, day 7 and 1 month postoperatively. There was no significant difference at 6 months post-operatively. ConclusionFinally, we concluded that TAPP repair for inguinal hernia (unilateral non recurrent hernia) safer with less early post-operative pain. Also, it has fewer complications, with a significantly longer operative time.

Resultados de la utilización de malla única en la reparación laparoscópica transabdominal (TAPP) de hernias inguinales bilaterales directas

Background: The laparoscopic approach has clear advantages for repairing bilateral hernias and recurrent hernias. The use of a single mesh as an option in the laparoscopic treatment of direct bilateral inguinal hernias with the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) technique, may reduce the recurrence rate and chronic pain. Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the benefits of single mesh for the treatment of bilateral inguinal hernias with the TAPP technique. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with bilateral direct inguinal hernias undergoing laparoscopic hernia repair with the TAPP technique using a single mesh. Results: Between January 2016 and January 207 177 patients underwent inguinal hernia repair. Of the 93 patients with bilateral hernias, a single mesh was used in 39, which were included in this study. Conclusion: The use of a single mesh is a safe option for the laparoscopic treatment of direct bilateral inguinal hernias with the TAPP technique.

Outcomes and Learning Curve in Total Extra Peritoneal Hernia repair.

ABSTRACT Background: A hernia surgery can be performed via the classical open technique, or laparoscopically. However, the later techniques viz. total extraperitoneal repair and transabdominal pre-peritoneal techniques are allied to a steep learning curve. Aim and Objectives: In this study, we aim to define the learning curve associated with a TEP inguinal hernia repair. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective study, of 125 patients with inguinal hernia posted for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair by a total extra peritoneal technique, to assess the learning curve. Two surgeons: surgeon 1 (assessee, junior surgeon) and surgeon 2 (assessor, senior surgeon) were chosen. The learning curve was assessed for surgeon 1, who was a general laparoscopic surgeon, not performing laparoscopic hernia repair, while surgeon 2 was regularly performing laparoscopic hernia repairs. The study period was between January 2018 and January 2022. A direct comparison was made, based on operative time, peritoneal laceration, vascular injury, conversion rates, hospital stay and complications. Results: Out of 125 patients, 50 patients were operated by the surgeon 1 and 75 were operated by surgeon 2. Mean operating time by surgeon 2 was 52 ± 4.5 minutes, and 66 ± 4.18 minutes for surgeon 1 with a p value of 0.0005. This was the only statistically significant variable, while surgical complications like peritoneal laceration, vascular injury or conversions to TAPP were statistically insignificant. Conclusion: Surgeon 1 (Assessee) required to perform 10 TEP surgeries to overcome the learning curve. Therefore, surgeons with a prior experience in laparoscopic surgery needs a shorter learning curve as compared to a beginner in laparoscopic surgery, when it comes to laparoendoscopic groin hernia repair.

LAPAROSCOPIC INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR: THE LONG-TERM ASSESSMENT OF CHRONIC PAIN AND QUALITY OF LIFE.

Laparoscopic approaches to inguinal hernia repair include transabdominal extraperitoneal and transabdominal preperitoneal, both of which are widely performed and employ mesh. Indicators of success for these surgical procedures include incidence of complications, time to return to daily activities, incidence of postoperative chronic pain, and the long-term postoperative patient satisfaction. This study aimed to evaluate and compare long-term postoperative incidence of chronic pain and overall quality of life among patients undergoing transabdominal extraperitoneal or transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Medical records were analyzed, and the SF-36 questionnaire and Visual Analog Scale were applied to assess quality of life and chronic pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair between January 2017 and February 2021. A total of 167 patients status post laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair, who were 3 months postoperatively or longer, were included in the study. Among the early complications seen, seroma was most common in the transabdominal preperitoneal group (p=0.04). Subsequently, 40 of the initial 167 patients answered to the survey instrument (SF-36 and Visual Analog Scale). Mean patient-reported pain (Visual Analog Scale score) was statistically similar between groups, with 1.29 for transabdominal preperitoneal and 1.68 for transabdominal extraperitoneal (p=0.92). In the domains evaluated by the SF-36, there was no significant difference between the samples. Both transabdominal extraperitoneal and transabdominal preperitoneal techniques for hernia repair have similar results in the late postoperative period regarding quality of life and prevalence of chronic pain. They are also comparable in terms of major early postoperative complications, except for seroma, with a higher incidence in patients undergoing transabdominal preperitoneal.

Critical view of the myopectineal orifice: a scoring system to objectively evaluate transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.

More than 20 million inguinal hernia repair (IHR) procedures are performed worldwide every year. The critical view of the myopectineal orifice (CV of the MPO) is a stepwise guide to the achievement and standardization of minimally invasive IHR (MI IHR). We propose a scoring system as an objective method for fulfillment of the CV of the MPO. The scoring system was employed for evaluation of the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) technique in 15 video-recorded procedures. Two variants of the score were used: the simple CV of the MPO score (s-CVMPO score) and the extended CV of the MPO score (e-CVMPO score). The inter-rater agreement and internal consistency for both scores and the correlation between the two scores were assessed. Inter-rater agreement with respect to satisfactory/unsatisfactory achievement of the CV of the MPO was high for both the s-CVMPO and e-CVMPO scores (κ = 1, p < 0.001). The Finn coefficient for inter-rater agreement was 0.97 for the s-CVMPO score and 0.99 for the e-CVMPO score (p < 0.001 for both). Both the s-CVMPO and e-CVMPO scores showed internal consistency with Cronbach's α of 0.89 and 0.87, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the two scores for the average score of each procedure was ρ = 0.96 (p < 0.001). The CVMPO score is a reliable tool for expert evaluation of TAPP repair. Implementing the CVMPO score facilitates objective assessment of the safety and quality of the procedure.

P126 LAPAROSCOPIC TREATMENT OF HYDROCELE IN FEMORAL CANAL: A CASE REPORT

Abstract Aim The hydrocele of the femoral canal (Femorocele) is one of the rarest entities of femoral hernia (1). All of the reported cases were an intraoperative diagnosis and were treated with an open approach. We are reporting, the probably first femorocele diagnosed and treated laparoscopically. Material and Methods A 57-years-old female patient was presented in our outpatient clinic with pain and an unclear lump in the groin area for 6 months. The sonographic examination revealed a cystic structure in the groin area resampling Nuck’s cyst. An elective laparoscopic exploration and transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair was planned. Results A laparoscopic exploration was carried out. Intraoperatively, the cystic structure was not found in the Nuck’s Canal, but in the femoral canal as a content of a femoral hernia with some pre-peritoneal fat. By the extraction of the cyst, a gush of clear fluid was noted. After the usual preparation of the preperitoneal area, a mesh was placed in TAPP technique. Conclusions This rare variety of femoral hernias, femorocele, is commonly misdiagnosed as a strangulated hernia or Nuck’s cyst (as in this case) among other differential diagnoses (2). All published femorocele cases were treated with an open approach. As demonstrated here, such unclear cases can be laparoscopically explored and treated accordingly.

P139 LAPAROSCOPIC TRANSABDOMINAL PREPERITONEAL REPAIR FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM PRIMARY UMBILICAL AND MIDLINE HERNIAS

Abstract Aim Complications of open mesh repair for primary umbilical and midline hernias (PUMH) may lead to significant re-admissions and follow-up costs. Although laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair reduces infection rates, especially in overweight patients, it’s controversial in these hernias, mainly due to potential adhesions’ formation. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal technique (lap-TAPP) may address these issues, as it combines advantages of both open and laparoscopic approaches. The aim of this study is to present the initial results of lap-TAPP for PUMH in regard to its feasibility and complication rates. Material and Methods We evaluated 25 consecutive cases of lap-TAPP repair for PUMH. Patients’s characteristics, intraoperative findings, and postoperative complications after 30-days follow-up were analyzed. Results 21 male and 4 female patients were included in analysis (mean BMI 29.8 kg/m2). Surgery time was 82 minutes (55-120). We found 20 umbilical and 11 epigastric linea alba hernias. Mesh size was 144cm2 (120-225); mean hernia defect width was 25mm (10-40). In 9 patients (36%) the peritoneal rents were created which were easily closed with sutures. All patients were discharged on 1 POD with no complications. After 30-days we found no recurrences or bulging, no pain complaints. We found one subcutaneous small hematoma with no need for intervention. Conclusions Laparoscopic TAPP for small and medium PUMH is a safe and feasible technique with low complication rate. However, this method is technically demanding and time consuming while performed with laparoscopic approach as it requires precise and subtle plane dissection, and non-ergonomic closure hernia defect.

Inguinal hernia – epidemiology, risk factors, treatment methods (literature review)

Inguinal hernias (IH) are widespread in the human population and occur in 27–43 % of men and 3–6 % of women. Many risk factors for IH have been overestimated in the last decade: male gender is considered the leading factor (the ratio between men and women is approximately 1:7), less significant factors are heredity (most significant for women), physical activity (more significant for men), age (peak prevalence of IH occurs at 5 years and 70–80 years), congenital or acquired connective tissue dysplasia, history of prostatectomy, low body mass index.Hernioplasty with the use of synthetic mesh prostheses remains the most popular technique for surgical correction of IH. Performing non-prosthetic hernioplasty is only recommended if mesh prostheses are not available, for example in poor countries. In open hernioplasty using mesh prostheses, different methods are used today: Plug &amp; Patch, Prolene Hernia System, Parietene Progrip, sutureless plastic according to Trabucco, Stoppa, preperitoneal techniques TIPP (trans-inguinal pre-peritoneal), TREPP (transrectus pre-peritoneal), TEP (total extraperitoneal), however, none of them showed significant advantages over the gold standard of open hernioplasty – tensionfree repair according to Liechtenstein.Laparoscopic IH correction is represented by the TAPP (transabdominal preperitoneal) technique, performed through the abdominal cavity, and TEP (total extraperitoneal) – extraperitoneal prosthetic hernioplasty. None of them has a significant advantage in the treatment of IH; therefore, when choosing a treatment method, the surgeon should be guided by the cost of the operation and the level of proficiency in one or another hernioplasty technique.