A systematic review comparing single-incision versus multi-incision laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia repair

M S Sajid1, A H Khawaja1, M Sayegh2

  • 1Department of General, Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery, Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust, Worthing Hospital, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 2DH, UK.

Abstract

Insights

Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) offers faster post-operative recovery compared to multi-incision laparoscopic surgery (MILS) for inguinal hernia repair. Other outcomes like hospital stay, operative time, and recurrence rates were similar between both SILS and MILS approaches.

Area of Science:

  • Minimally Invasive Surgery
  • Surgical Outcomes Research
  • Hernia Repair Techniques

Background:

  • Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure.
  • Laparoscopic techniques, including single incision (SILS) and multi-incision (MILS), are utilized.
  • Comparative data on surgical outcomes between SILS and MILS for inguinal hernia repair requires synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and meta-analyze published studies.
  • To compare surgical outcomes between SILS and MILS for inguinal hernia repair.
  • To determine if significant differences exist in key outcome metrics.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
  • Inclusion of fifteen comparative studies with 1651 patients.
  • Analysis of outcomes including recovery time, hospital stay, operative time, pain, recurrence, conversion, and complications.

Main Results:

  • Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) demonstrated significantly quicker post-operative recovery (p=0.001).
  • No statistical differences were observed in hospital stay, operative time, pain scores, hernia recurrence, conversion rates, or complications between SILS and MILS.
  • Sub-group analysis of RCTs indicated similar outcomes, with slightly higher post-operative pain in the MILS group.

Conclusions:

  • Both SILS and MILS are feasible and safe options for inguinal hernia repair.
  • Patient selection can be based on surgeon expertise and available resources.
  • Further research may refine the understanding of patient-specific benefits for each approach.

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