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Published on: September 11, 2021
Contralateral occurrence after laparoscopic total extraperitoneal hernia repair for unilateral inguinal hernia
H Uchida1, T Matsumoto, H Ijichi
1Department of Surgery, Beppu Medical Center, Beppu, Oita, Japan. ucchy@med.oita-u.ac.jp
Summary
Contralateral occurrence after total extraperitoneal repair (TEP) for unilateral inguinal hernia is low, affecting 3.2% of patients. Repeat TEP for contralateral hernias is safe and effective, demonstrating TEP
Area of Science:
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Hernia repair
- Surgical outcomes
Background:
- Total extraperitoneal repair (TEP) is a laparoscopic technique for inguinal hernias.
- TEP is associated with low recurrence and minimal postoperative pain.
- Contralateral occurrence after unilateral TEP is not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence of contralateral occurrence after TEP for unilateral inguinal hernia.
- To assess the clinical significance of occult contralateral hernias.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 157 unilateral TEPs performed between April 2003 and May 2009.
- Exclusion of patients who underwent contralateral exploration during the initial TEP.
Main Results:
- Five patients (3.2%) developed contralateral hernias after unilateral TEP.
- The mean time to contralateral occurrence was 12.2 months.
- Repeat TEP for contralateral hernias was performed without complications.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of contralateral occurrence following TEP for unilateral inguinal hernia is low.
- TEP is a valuable procedure with a low rate of contralateral occurrence.
- Subsequent TEP for contralateral hernias is a safe and effective treatment option.