Laparoscopic simultaneous inguinal hernia repair and appendectomy in children: A multicenter study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Inguinal hernias (IHs) are occasionally found incidentally during laparoscopic appendectomy in children.
• Evaluating the efficacy of simultaneous laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair and appendectomy is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and effectiveness of performing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair and appendectomy simultaneously in pediatric patients.
• To compare outcomes of simultaneous procedures versus two-stage laparoscopic interventions.

Main Methods:

• A multicentric study compared 117 children undergoing simultaneous laparoscopic procedures with 72 children undergoing two-stage procedures for appendicitis (AA) and concurrent IH.
• Data on intraoperative details, postoperative complications, and clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed.
• Level III evidence was utilized.

Main Results:

• The simultaneous group showed shorter operative times (43.2 min vs. 53.9 min) and hospital stays (1.5 days vs. 2.2 days) compared to the two-stage group.
• Simultaneous procedures resulted in significantly lower costs (9198.7 RMB vs. 14,392.5 RMB).
• Wound infection rates (3 vs. 2) and recurrent IH (1 vs. 0) were similar between groups, with no significant increase in complications.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic simultaneous inguinal hernia repair and appendectomy is a safe, feasible, and cost-effective option for children.
• This approach avoids repeat anesthesia and hospitalization, offering significant benefits.
• The combined procedure does not elevate the risk of wound infection or hernia recurrence.