A Contralateral Complication of Extra-peritoneal Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Area of Science:

• Surgical innovation
• Hernia repair techniques
• Minimally invasive surgery

Background:

• Inguinal hernias are common surgical conditions.
• Total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair is a standard minimally invasive technique for inguinal hernias.
• Complications, though rare, can occur with any surgical procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a unique complication following TEP repair.
• To raise awareness of potential bleeding complications.
• To document a previously undescribed cause of femoral hernia.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 63-year-old female patient.
• Description of an uncomplicated TEP repair for a right direct inguinal hernia.
• Observation of subsequent development of a strangulated left femoral hernia.

Main Results:

• The patient developed a strangulated left femoral hernia one week post-TEP repair.
• Hemorrhage from the extraperitoneal dissection is hypothesized as the cause.
• Bleeding tracked into the femoral canal, leading to hernia formation.

Conclusions:

• This is the first reported case of femoral hernia secondary to bleeding from TEP repair.
• Surgeons should be aware of potential retroperitoneal bleeding complications.
• Further investigation into the anatomical pathways of bleeding is warranted.