Endoscopic extraperitoneal inguinal hernioplasty: disposable and reusable instruments

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Instrumentation
• Hernia Repair

Background:

• Endoscopic totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernioplasty (TEP) is a standard inguinal hernia repair technique.
• TEP often necessitates disposable instruments, contributing to high costs and limiting wider adoption, especially in public healthcare settings.
• The choice between disposable and reusable instruments impacts surgical technique, handling, and patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the advantages and disadvantages of reusable versus disposable instruments for TEP procedures.
• To inform the selection of surgical instruments based on procedural costs, operational convenience, patient safety, and surgeon expertise.
• To emphasize the importance of cost-effectiveness and value for money in instrument choice for TEP.

Main Methods:

• Comparative review of disposable and reusable surgical instruments used in TEP.
• Analysis of factors influencing instrument selection, including cost, safety, and surgical technique.
• Discussion of sterilization requirements and potential issues associated with reusable instruments.

Main Results:

• Disposable instruments present a high initial cost, while reusable instruments require sterilization and may experience wear and tear.
• Switching to reusable instruments may necessitate modifications in surgical techniques.
• Both instrument types have distinct handling and safety profiles.

Conclusions:

• The selection of TEP instruments requires a careful balance between procedural cost, operating room logistics, patient safety, and surgeon experience.
• Cost-effectiveness and value for money are critical considerations for both reusable and disposable instruments in TEP.
• Optimizing instrument choice can enhance the broader application of TEP, benefiting more patients.