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Recurrent inguinal hernia: a ten-year review
Xavier Feliu1, Eduardo Jaurrieta, Xavier Viñas
1Hospital General d'Igualada, Barcelona, Spain. 16255xfp@comb.es
Background:
This study evaluates the results obtained in recurrent inguinal hernia repair over the past ten years in a general hospital using laparoscopic (LAP) and open tension-free mesh (Lichtenstein) procedures.
Methods:
A prospective controlled study with 258 recurrent inguinal hernias in 235 patients over a ten-year period. The main outcome measurements were recurrence rate, operating time, hospital stay, postoperative complications, and cost.
Results:
There were 10 recurrences (4.3%): 7 in the Lichtenstein group (5.7%) and 3 (2.2%) in the LAP group (P = nonsignificant [NS]). There were 15 (12.2%) postoperative complications in the Lichtenstein group and 6 (4.4%) in the LAP group (P =0.04). The operating room costs were higher in the LAP group, but this difference was offset by a significantly shorter hospital stay, shorter operating time, and earlier return to work.
Conclusion:
Laparoscopic repair is an effective option for the treatment of recurrent inguinal hernia. The TEP approach combines the advantages of minimal invasive surgery and those of tension-free mesh repair, reducing operating time, postoperative morbidity, and recurrence rate.