Comparison of laparoscopic vs open modified Shouldice technique in inguinal hernia repair

Inguinal hernia repair has been a common procedure performed by general surgeons. Recently, a newly developed approach has been introduced using the pre-peritoneal laparoscopic repair. The laparoscopic approach allows patients to recover faster, with less pain, however, a disadvantage is the higher cost. We conducted a retrospective study of inguinal hernia repairs performed by one surgeon at the same institution, comparing the laparoscopic technique to the modified Shouldice procedure with regard to surgical time, postoperative recovery time, charge, and time to return to work and to activities. Patients undergoing laparoscopic hernia repairs were able to return to work and to activities sooner than patients undergoing the modified Shouldice procedure. The results obtained in this study showed a higher charge for the laparoscopic procedure, with longer surgical and recovery room time. The more rapid return to work and activities may outweigh the higher charge and longer surgical and recovery room time.