Preperitoneal prosthetic inguinal herniorrhaphy without a relaxing incision

Area of Science:

• Surgery
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Inguinal hernias are common surgical conditions.
• Traditional repair methods can be challenging with posterior approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the preperitoneal approach for inguinal hernia repair.
• To assess the use of Marlex prostheses in this surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• A consecutive series of 317 inguinal hernias in 276 men were repaired using the preperitoneal approach.
• Marlex prostheses were utilized for "complete" repairs in a significant portion of cases.
• Data on hernia types, recurrence, and prosthetic use were collected.

Main Results:

• 162 patients (59%) had 194 (61%) "complete" repairs with Marlex prostheses.
• Prosthetic patches were used in indirect, mixed bilateral, and recurrent hernias with varying success.
• Two postoperative deaths occurred; four Marlex repairs failed.

Conclusions:

• The preperitoneal approach offers advantages for inguinal hernia repair.
• Using Marlex prostheses in conjunction with this approach provides a satisfactory initial repair technique.
• This method serves as a viable alternative to the classic relaxing incision for posterior approaches.