Laparoscopic Transabdominal Pre-Peritoneal (TAPP) procedure - step-by-step tips and tricks

Minimally invasive approach for groin hernia treatment is still controversial, but in the last decade, it tends to become the standard procedure for one day surgery. We present herein the technique of laparoscopic Trans Abdominal Pre Peritoneal approach (TAPP). The surgical technique is presented step-by step;the different procedures key points (e.g. anatomic landmarks recognition, diagnosis of "occult" hernias, preperitoneal and hernia sac dissection, mesh placement and peritoneal closure) are described and discussed in detail, several tips and tricks being noted and highlighted.

TAPP is a feasible method for treating groin hernia associated with low rate of postoperative morbidity and recurrence. The anatomic landmarks are easily recognizable. The laparoscopic exploration allows for the treatment of incarcerated strangulated hernias and the intraoperative diagnosis of occult hernias.