Feasibility study of open inguinal hernia repair using mesh plug by residents

Area of Science:

• General Surgery
• Surgical Outcomes
• Hernia Repair

Background:

• Inguinal hernia repair using the mesh-plug (MP) technique is a common surgical procedure.
• Evaluating the outcomes of MP repair performed by surgical residents is crucial for training and patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the postoperative outcomes of mesh-plug (MP) inguinal hernia repair performed by residents.
• To identify risk factors associated with recurrence after MP repair by residents.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 658 patients who underwent MP repair for inguinal hernia.
• Comparison of short- and long-term outcomes between repairs performed by postgraduate year two residents and non-residents.
• Late complications assessed via questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Residents performed 31% of MP repairs; their operative time was longer (63 vs. 58 min).
• No significant difference in short- or long-term complication rates between resident and non-resident groups.
• The 3-year recurrence rate was significantly higher for resident-performed repairs (4.1% vs. 0.9%).
• Independent risk factors for recurrence included surgery by residents (OR 3.42) and direct hernia (OR 7.69).

Conclusions:

• Surgery by residents and direct hernia are significant risk factors for recurrence in MP inguinal hernia repair.
• Close supervision and guidance are recommended for residents, particularly when operating on patients with direct hernias.