A meta-analysis assessing the efficacy of concurrent robotic inguinal hernia repair (RIHR) during robotic-assisted...

The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of concurrent robotic inguinal hernia repair (RIHR) performed during robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), as well as to evaluate its safety and feasibility. By April 2024, we have performed comprehensive searches across multiple major databases globally, such as Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science. Data analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 (RevMan 5.4). Our study has been registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024592239). A total of eight cohort studies were included in the analysis. Pooled data demonstrated that concurrent robotic inguinal hernia repair (RIHR) during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) required significantly longer operative time compared to controls (MD 30.80 min, 95% CI 2.36-59.25, p = 0.03; I² = 100%). Its total complication rate is higher (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.15-2.27, p = 0.005, I² = 0%). Its minor complication rate is higher (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.02-2.87, p = 0.04, I² = 14%). No statistically significant differences were observed in major complications, estimated blood loss, or length of hospital stay. The concurrent performance of robot-assisted inguinal hernia repair (RIHR) during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is generally feasible and safe. However, the included studies demonstrated variable methodological quality with significant heterogeneity. Further high-quality studies are warranted to validate these findings.