Simultaneous robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) and inguinal herniorrhaphy (IHR): proof-of-concept...

Inguinal hernia (IH) is detected in approximately 33% of RALP's either pre or intraoperatively wherein all are repaired during RALP to circumvent future herniorrhaphy (Fukuta et al., Urology 68(2):267-271, 2006; Nielsen, Urology 66(5):1034-1037, 2005). Some debate this policy by quoting the potential risk of mesh lying close to the vesicourethral anastomosis leading to infections and adhesions. The current study was initiated to elucidate the feasibility and outcomes of simultaneous inguinal herniorrhaphy (IHR) during RALP.

Historic analysis of prospectively maintained data of 1224 RALP patients, as per inclusion criteria, between 2012 and 2017 was done, among whom 143 patients had a concurrent IHR using 3DmaxTM polypropylene monofilament mesh. Patients were then compared for demographics, peri-operative features, and outcomes.

The mean age and AUA score were significantly different (p < 0.002, p < 0.01 respectively) between patients undergoing only RALP and RALP with IHR. BMI was not significantly different. One hundred forty-three patients (11.6%) underwent IHR at 155 hernial sites, 12 sites being bilateral. One hundred and one sites (65.2%) were diagnosed intraoperatively. The mean console time was 67.4 ± 11.5 min for RALP which increased by 6.9 ± 10.7 min in unilateral and by 10.7 ± 8.6 min in bilateral IHR. There were no mesh-associated or Clavien Dindo class II-V complications. Mean follow-up was 36 ± 1.4 months with no recurrences.

This study reiterates the feasibility and advisability of repairing most inguinal hernias encountered during RALP as it is without any significant alteration of peri-operative morbidity, is associated with excellent post-operative outcomes, and obviates the need for a future surgical procedure.