Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair versus open preperitoneal mesh repair for inguinal hernia

Abstract EN

The surgical history of inguinal hernias dates back to ancient Egypt, from Bassini’s repair to today’s mesh-based open and laparoscopic repairs.

The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair with open preperitoneal polypropylene mesh repair for treatment of inguinal hernia.

Patients and methods From June 2010 to June 2012, 40 adult patients with primary inguinal hernia were included in this study, which was carried at New Damietta University Hospital.

The patients were randomly divided into two equal groups: Group A underwent laparoscopic TAPP polypropylene mesh repair and group B underwent open preperitoneal polypropylene mesh repair.

Results The mean follow-up time was 14.8 months.

The mean operative time was 66.8 min for group A and that for group B was 47 min.

The mean hospital stay was 1.475 days for group A and that for group B was 1.575 days.

Contralateral clinically occult inguinal hernia was discovered and repaired in nine patients (45%) in the TAPP group.

As regards group A, the severity of postoperative inguinal pain was mild in 12 patients (60%), moderate in seven patients (35%), and severe in one patient (5%).

As regards group B, the severity of postoperative inguinal pain was mild in six patients (30%), moderate in 10 patients (50%), and severe in four patients (20%).

Conclusion The TAPP technique is an excellent tool for laparoscopic treatment of inguinal hernias.

A prerequisite for excellent results is the strict application of a standardized technique.

In experienced hands, all types of inguinal hernias, including large scrotal hernias, can be operated upon with low morbidity and recurrence rates.

However, to achieve favorable results, a strong educational program on laparoscopy is recommended