Scarless laparoscopic repair of epigastric hernia in children

Despite the small size of the incision, the scar left by open repair of epigastric hernia in children is unaesthetic. Few laparoscopic approaches to epigastric hernia repair have been previously proposed, but none has gain wide acceptance from pediatric surgeons. In this study, we present our experience with a scarless laparoscopic approach using a percutaneous suturing technique for epigastric hernia repair in children.

Ten consecutive patients presenting with epigastric hernia 15 mm or further from the umbilicus were submitted to laparoscopic hernia repair. A 5-mm 30º-angle laparoscope is introduced through a umbilical trocar and a 3-mm laparoscopic dissector is introduced through a stab incision in the right flank. After opening and dissecting the parietal peritoneum, the fascial defect is identified and closed using 2-0 polyglactin thread through a percutaneous suturing technique. Intraoperative and postoperative clinical data were collected.

All patients were successfully submitted to laparoscopic epigastric hernia repair. Median age at surgery was 79 months old and the median distance from the umbilicus to the epigastric defect was 4 cm. Operative time ranged from 35 to 75 min. Every hernia was successfully closed without any incidents. Follow-up period ranges from 2 to 12 months. No postoperative complications or recurrence was registered. No scar was visible in these patients.

This scarless laparoscopic technique for epigastric hernia repair is safe and reliable. We believe this technique might become gold standard of care in the near future.