Potential benefits of single-port compared to multiport laparoscopic inguinal herniorraphy: a prospective randomized...

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Laparoscopic inguinal herniorraphy is a well-established procedure.
• Previous studies indicate comparable safety and efficacy between single-port and multiport approaches.
• This study investigates single-port total extraperitoneal inguinal herniorraphy beyond the initial learning curve.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of single-port laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal herniorraphy.
• To assess potential benefits of the single-port technique compared to multiport surgery.
• To determine outcomes beyond the learning curve for single-port surgery.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Patients with inguinal or femoral hernias were enrolled between December 2011 and February 2013.
• Standardized equipment and techniques were used for both single-port (Triport™) and multiport procedures.

Main Results:

• 100 patients underwent 157 hernia repairs (51 single-port, 49 multiport).
• No conversions to open surgery or need for additional ports occurred.
• Single-port surgery resulted in significantly less postoperative pain, reduced analgesic requirements, quicker return to work, and better cosmetic scores, with equivalent operation times and hospital stay.

Conclusions:

• Single-port laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal herniorraphy is safe and effective.
• The single-port approach offers significant advantages in terms of postoperative pain, recovery, and cosmesis.
• These benefits are achieved when performed by experienced surgeons in high-volume settings.