Single-incision laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair using only conventional instruments:...

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Hernia Repair

Background:

• Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) aims for scarless outcomes, but limitations persist.
• Umbilical incisions in SILS offer the most cosmetic results.
• Transumbilical laparoscopic surgery is explored as a solution for visible scarring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of transumbilical single-skin-incision laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TSL-TAPP) repair for groin hernias.
• To assess the safety, efficacy, and learning curve of this technique using conventional laparoscopic instruments.

Main Methods:

• 67 male patients underwent TSL-TAPP for irreducible or obstructed groin hernias.
• A single umbilical incision was used for port placement.
• Conventional laparoscopic instruments and telescopes were employed.

Main Results:

• The average age of patients was 38.6 years.
• Mean operative time was 42.8 minutes for unilateral and 71.7 minutes for bilateral hernias.
• No conversions or recurrences were observed up to 9 months post-operation; 3 patients had minimal flap discharge without infection.

Conclusions:

• Transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic TAPP repair is a feasible and safe option for groin hernias.
• The technique is easy to learn and likely represents a future direction for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.
• Excellent cosmetic results and absence of recurrence support its adoption.