Transabdominal Pre-Peritoneal Versus Open Repair for Primary Unilateral Inguinal Hernia: A Meta-analysis

QUALITY OF LIFE USING EURAHS-QoL SCORES AFTER SURGICAL TREATMENT OF INGUINAL HERNIA: LAPAROSCOPIC TRANSABDOMINAL PREPERITONEAL (TAPP) AND LICHTENSTEIN TECHNIQUES

BACKGROUND

Results on quality of life after inguinal hernia surgery, such as esthetics, postoperative pain, period of absence from activities, and recurrence are a relevant topic since inguinal hernia affects 27% of men and 3% of women at some point in their lives, and should guide health policies to allocate resources more efficiently.

AIMS

To evaluate the quality of life in the late postoperative period of inguinal herniorrhaphy regarding recurrence, pain, esthetics, and restriction in activities, comparing the minimally invasive techniques - the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and the conventional Lichtenstein.

METHODS

A cross-sectional observational clinical study was conducted with the EuraHS-QoL questionnaire validated and translated into Portuguese, applied to patients after an average of 65 months postoperatively. Forty-five patients were assessed, 28 undergoing Lichtenstein and 17 undergoing TAPP. All were males aged between 18 and 87 years with a primary unilateral inguinal hernia. Recurrent or bilateral hernias, other concomitant abdominal wall hernias, patients who chose not to participate or who were not found, and female patients were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

Regarding the domains pain, restriction, and esthetics, there was no difference between the two groups when examining quality of life. Neither group presented recurrence in the studied period.

CONCLUSIONS

Both TAPP and Lichtenstein techniques presented similar results concerning quality of life when compared in the long-term.

Chronic inguinal pain post-hernioplasty. Laparo-endoscopic surgery vs lichtenstein repair: systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Annually, over 20 million patients worldwide undergo inguinal hernia repair procedures. Surgery stands as the recommended treatment, however, a consensus on the optimal method is lacking. This study aims to conduct an updated systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the risk of chronic inguinal pain and recurrence between laparo-endoscopic mesh repair (TAPP and TEP) versus Lichtenstein repair for inguinal hernia.

METHODS

Searches were conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, EBSCO, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults, published in English and Spanish, comparing surgical outcomes among the Lichtenstein open technique, TAPP, and/or TEP. Adherence to the PRISMA guidelines was maintained in the methodology, and the CASP tool was employed to assess the quality of the articles. Statistical analysis involved mean [± standard deviation (SD)], Odds Ratio (OR), and Confidence Interval (CI).

RESULTS

Eight RCTs encompassing 1,469 patients randomized to Lichtenstein repair (n = 755) and laparo-endoscopic repair (n = 714) were included. Laparo-endoscopic repair was associated with a lower likelihood of chronic inguinal pain compared to Lichtenstein repair (OR = 0.28, 95% CI [0.30-0.56], p = 0.0001). There were no significant differences in recurrence rates between the laparo-endoscopic and the Lichtenstein group (OR = 1.03, 95% CI [0.57-1.86], p = 0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that laparo-endoscopic hernia surgery leads to a lower incidence of chronic inguinal pain compared to Lichtenstein repair, while maintaining similar rates of recurrence.

Current trends and outcomes for unilateral groin hernia repairs in the United States using the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative database: A multicenter propensity score matching analysis of 30-day and 1-year outcomes

BACKGROUND

Different unilateral groin hernia repair approaches have been developed in the last 2 decades. The most commonly done approaches are open inguinal hernia repair by the Lichenstein technique, laparoscopic approach by either total extraperitoneal or transabdominal preperitoneal, and robotic transabdominal preperitoneal approach. Hence, this study aimed to compare early and late postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent unilateral robotic transabdominal preperitoneal, laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal, and laparoscopic total extraperitoneal, and open groin hernia repair using a United States national hernia database, the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative Database.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data from the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative database was retrospectively reviewed, including all adult patients who underwent elective unilateral groin hernia repair from 2015 to 2022, with a 1:1 propensity score match analysis conducted for balanced groups. The univariate analysis compared the groups across the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative timeframes.

RESULTS

The Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative database identified 14,320 patients who underwent elective unilateral groin hernia repair and had documented 30 days of follow-up. Propensity score matching stratified 1,598 patients to each group (total of 6,392). The median age was 64 years (interquartile range 53-74) for open groin hernia repair, whereas 60 (interquartile range 47-69) for laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal, 62 (interquartile range 48-70) for laparoscopic total extraperitoneal, and 60 (interquartile range 47-70) for robotic transabdominal preperitoneal were noted. Open groin hernia repair had more American Society of Anesthesiologists score 4 (52, 3%) patients (P < .001). A painful bulge was the most common indication (>85%). Operating room time >2 hours was more significant in the robotic transabdominal preperitoneal group (123, 8%; P < .001). Seroma rate was higher in the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (134, 8%; P < .001). A 1-year analysis had 1,103 patients. Hematoma, surgical site infection, readmission, reoperation, and hernia recurrence at 30 days or 1 year did not differ, with an overall recurrence rate of 6% (n = 67) at 1 year (P = .33). In patients with body mass index ≥30 kg/m2, the robotic approach had lower rates of surgical site occurrence (n = 12, 4%; P = .002) and seroma (n = 5, 2%; P < .001) compared with the other groups. When evaluating recurrence 1 year after surgery, the robotic transabdominal preperitoneal group had 10% versus 18% open groin hernia repair, 11% laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal, and 18% laparoscopic total extraperitoneal, but it was not statistically significant (P = .53).

CONCLUSION

There was no difference in readmission, reoperation, and surgical site infection among the surgical techniques at 30 days. However, laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal was associated with more seromas. Hernia recurrence at 1 year was similar across groups; the robotic approach had the lowest recurrence rate among all 3 repairs but did not reach statistical significance. The robotic approach performed better in patients with a body mass index of 30 kg/m2 for surgical site occurrence and seroma than in other surgical techniques.

Robotic Totally Extraperitoneal Hernia Repair: An Initial Experience with Cambridge Medical Robotics Versius

Background: Total extraperitoneal approach for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (L-TEP) allows for better dissection, lesser chance of bowel injury, and quicker operating time. However robotic groin hernia repair is currently performed only through transabdominal route as it allows for more mobility of the arms. This study is aimed at studying the feasibility and outcomes of robotic totally extraperitoneal (R-TEP). Methods: A prospective nonrandomized comparative study was conducted to compare R-TEP with L-TEP. Out of a total of 88 patients with inguinal hernia, 44 patients underwent R-TEP and other 44 patients underwent L-TEP over a period of 15 months. All R-TEP were performed with Cambridge Medical Robotics (CMR) Versius. The outcomes were analyzed over a minimum follow-up period of 6 months. Results: All patients were males with a mean age of 45.9 years. Average body mass index was 28.7. Mean docking time for R-TEP was 12.7 minutes. Overall time taken for R-TEP (mean 60.47 minutes) was significantly higher (P < .001) than L-TEP (mean 38.45 minutes). When the console time of R-TEP and overall time of L-TEP were compared, there was no significant difference (P = .053). A RCT (RIVAL Trial) conducted by Prabhu et al. showed their robotic transabdominal preperitoneal (R-TAPP) time of median 75.5 (59.0-93.8) minutes. Kimberly et al. had their overall time of 77.5 minutes and Andre Luiz et al. had a console time of 58 minutes. When we compared the data, the overall time of R-TEP is lesser compared with R-TAPP. Postoperative pain on POD-1 showed that the robotic group had significantly lower pain. There were no recurrences noted in the study period. Conclusion: With our study, we have shown that R-TEP performed using the principle of laparoscopic triangulation technique with CMR Versius is feasible and reproducible. Although the overall time is significantly more in R-TEP when compared with L-TEP, console times of R-TEP and overall times of L-TEP were very similar. Console times of R-TEP are much lesser compared with other studies on R-TAPP. R-TEP can be a better alternative to R-TAPP and can be considered at par with L-TEP. A systematic RCT would provide a better picture.

Indocyanine Green Fluorescent Lymphography During Open Inguinal Hernia Repair: Relationship Between Lymphatic Vessel Injury and Postoperative Hydrocele

BACKGROUND

This prospective case series analyzed patients who underwent indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent lymphography during open inguinal hernia repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between ICG leakage and postoperative hydroceles in patients who underwent inguinal hernia repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were analyzed from 40 patients who underwent primary open hernia repair between October 2020 and June 2021 (44 cases in total). Hydroceles were categorized into two types: symptomatic and "ultrasonic" (detected only by ultrasound imaging).

RESULTS

In the univariate analysis, hernia type (p = 0.044) and ICG leakage (p = 0.007) were independent risk factors for postoperative ultrasonic hydroceles. Additionally, mesh type (p = 0.043) and ICG leakage (p = 0.025) were independent risk factors for postoperative symptomatic hydroceles. In the multivariate analysis, ICG leakage (p = 0.034) was an independent risk factor for postoperative ultrasonic hydroceles.

CONCLUSIONS

ICG leakage after inguinal hernia repair was independently associated with postoperative ultrasonic and symptomatic hydroceles. These findings suggest a relationship between lymphatic vessel injury and the incidence of postoperative hydroceles.

Long term efficacy of prosthetic inguinal herniorrhaphy concomitant with robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

PURPOSE

Patients who undergo robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) may present concurrent or secondary inguinal hernia (IH). Surgical repair of IH simultaneously with RARP has been reported. We aimed to assess the long-term efficacy of concurrent prosthetic IH repair with RARP.

METHODS

Data for consecutive patients undergoing concurrent IH repair with RARP for localized prostate cancer at our institution between 2006 and 2017 were retrospectively analysed. Patients were matched based on age, BMI, and year of surgery, with patients undergoing RARP alone. IH repair was performed with a polyester mesh. Efficacy of IH repair was the primary outcome. Patient characteristics, perioperative data, recurrence and treatment were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 136 men were included, 50% treated by RARP and concurrent IH, 50% by RARP alone. Mean age was 65 years (SD 6) and mean BMI 26.8 (SD 2.5). IH was diagnosed preoperatively in 42 patients (62%) or intraoperatively in 26 patients (38%). A total 18 patients (26%) had bilateral hernias and 50 patients had unilateral hernias (right 31%, left 43%). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding perioperative data. The herniorrhaphy added 34 min to the operative time (p < 0.001). After a mean follow-up of 106 months [SD 38], 9 patients (13%) presented recurrence of IH, with a mean time to recurrence of 43 months [SD 35]. Age was significantly associated with IH recurrence (p = 0.0007).

CONCLUSION

Concomitant IH repair and RARP appear to be a safe procedure with good long-term safety and efficacy, without significantly increasing morbidity.

Postoperative Analgesics Score as a Predictor of Chronic Postoperative Inguinal Pain After Inguinal Hernia Repair: Lessons Learned From a Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) is a common complication after inguinal hernia surgery and occurs in up to 10-14% of cases. CPIP has a significant impact on daily life, work ability and thus compromises quality of life. The aim of this retrospective study was an in-depth analysis of patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair to further refine the prediction of the onset of CPIP reliably.

METHODS

A single center retrospective analysis of patients with who underwent open or minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair from 2016 to 2021 was carried out. Complication rates, detailed analysis of postoperative pain medication and quality of life using the EuraHS Quality of Life questionnaire were assessed.

RESULTS

Out of 596 consecutive procedures, 344 patients were included in detailed analyses. While patient cohorts were different in terms of age and co-morbidities, and the prevalence of CPIP was 12.2% without differences between the surgical procedures (Lichtenstein: 12.8%; TEP 10.9%; TAPP 13.5%). Postoperative pain was evaluated using a newly developed analgesic score. Patients who developed CPIP later had a significant higher consumption of analgesics at discharge (p = 0.016). As additional risk factors for CPIP younger patient age and postoperative complications were identified.

CONCLUSION

The prospective use of the analgesic score established here could be helpful to identify patients that are at risk to develop CPIP. These patients could benefit from a structured follow-up to allow early therapeutic intervention to prevent chronification and restore the quality of life.

Trends and predictors of laparoscopic bilateral inguinal hernia repair in Spain: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

International guidelines currently recommend laparoscopy for bilateral inguinal hernia repair (BIHR). Our study aims to evaluate the trends and factors associated with the choice of laparoscopy for BIHR in Spain.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing BIHR between 2016 and 2019. We used the national database of the Spanish Ministry of Health: RAE-CMBD. We performed a univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the factors associated with the utilization of laparoscopy. We identified perioperative complications and the factors associated with their occurrence through multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 21,795 BIHRs were performed: 84% by open approach and 16% by laparoscopic approach. Laparoscopic approach increased from 12% in 2016 to 23% in 2019 (p < 0.001). The 40% of hospitals did not use laparoscopy, and only 8% of the hospitals performed more than 50% of their BIHRs by laparoscopy. The utilization rate of laparoscopy was not related to the number of BIHRs performed per year (p = 0.145). The main factor associated with the choice of laparoscopy in multivariable logistic regression analysis was the patient's region of residence (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.88-2.21). Other factors were age < 65 years (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.52-1.79) and recurrent inguinal hernia (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.15-1.49). The type of approach for BIHR was not independently associated with perioperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a significant increase in recent years, laparoscopic BIHR in Spain remains low. The main factor associated with the utilization of laparoscopy was the patient's region of residence; this factor seems to be related to the presence of hospitals with a high rate of laparoscopic approaches where the patient lives. The type of approach was not independently associated with perioperative complications. More efforts are needed to increase laparoscopic use in patients with bilateral inguinal hernias.

Comparison of post-operative outcomes of large direct inguinal hernia repairs based on operative approach (open vs. laparoscopic vs. robotic) using the ACHQC (Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative) database

PURPOSE

To compare clinical outcomes for open, laparoscopic, and robotic hernia repairs for direct, unilateral inguinal hernia repairs, with particular focus on 30-day morbidity surgical site infection (SSI); surgical site occurrence (SSO); SSI/SSO requiring procedural interventions (SSOPI), reoperation, and recurrence.

METHODS

The Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative database was queried for patients undergoing elective, primary, > 3 cm medial, unilateral inguinal hernia repairs with an open (Lichtenstein), laparoscopic, or robotic operative approach. Preoperative demographics and patient characteristics, operative techniques, and outcomes were studied. A 1-to-1 propensity score matching algorithm was used for each operative approach pair to reduce selection bias.

RESULTS

There were 848 operations included: 297 were open, 285 laparoscopic, and 266 robotic hernia repairs. There was no evidence of a difference in primary endpoints at 30 days including SSI, SSO, SSI/SSO requiring procedural interventions (SSOPI), reoperation, readmission, or recurrence for any of the operative approach pairs (open vs. robotic, open vs. laparoscopic, robotic vs. laparoscopic). For the open vs. laparoscopic groups, QoL score at 30 day was lower (better) for laparoscopic surgery compared to open surgery (OR 0.53 [0.31, 0.92], p = 0.03), but this difference did not hold at the 1-year survey (OR 1.37 [0.48, 3.92], p = 0.55). Similarly, patients who underwent robotic repair were more likely to have a higher (worse) 30-day QoL score (OR 2.01 [1.18, 3.42], p = 0.01), but no evidence of a difference at 1 year (OR 0.83 [0.3, 2.26] p = 0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study did not reveal significant post-operative outcomes between open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches for large medial inguinal hernias. Surgeons should continue to tailor operative approach based on patient needs and their own surgical expertise.

Laparoscopic mesh removal for mesh infection related to pararectal incision of previous appendectomy after laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair: A case report

A 67-year-old man with a history of appendectomy 40 years ago underwent single-incision laparoscopic surgery for total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. Postoperatively, the pararectal incisional scar obtained from the appendectomy was infected; thus, antibiotic therapy and drainage were performed. However, the infection persisted. After 5 postoperative months, the mesh was laparoscopically removed at a sufficient distance from the infected site. No enterocutaneous fistula was observed. After 1 year and 10 months, no recurrence of hernia or infection was observed. Thus, laparoscopic mesh removal is feasible. Infection of a 40-year-old incision rarely results in mesh infection. Therefore, in pararectal incision, the extent of mesh coverage should be considered; if the overlap is large, changing the technique by not covering the incision may be necessary.

Robotic re-TAPP: a minimally invasive alternative for the failed posterior repair

OBJECTIVE

to describe the use of the robotic platform in inguinal hernia recurrence after a previous laparoscopic repair.

METHODS

patients with recurrent inguinal hernias following a laparoscopic repair who have undergone robotic transabdominal preperitoneal between December 2015 through September 2020 were identified in a prospectively maintained database. Outcomes of interest included demographics, hernia characteristics, operative details and rates of 30-day surgical site occurrence, surgical site occurrences requiring procedural interventions, surgical site infection and hernia recurrence were abstracted.

RESULTS

nineteen patients (95% male, mean age 55 years, mean body mass index 28) had 27 hernias repaired (N=8 bilateral). Average operative time was 168.9 ± 49.3min (range 90-240). There were two intraoperative complications all of them were bleeding from the inferior epigastric vessel injuries. Three SSOs occurred (N=2 seromas and N=1 hematoma. After a median 35.7 months follow-up (IQR 13-49), no recurrence has been diagnosed. One patient developed chronic postoperative inguinal pain.

CONCLUSIONS

on a small number of selected patients and experienced hands, we found that the use of the robotic platform for repair of recurrent hernias after prior laparoscopic repair appears to be feasible, safe and effective despite being technically demanding. Further studies in larger cohorts are necessary to determine if this technique provides any benefits in recurrent inguinal hernia scenario.

Indocyanine green fluorescence-guided laparoscopic removal of infected mesh with chronic sinus formation after inguinal mesh plug repair

Chronic mesh infection with sinus formation is usually amenable to open method with dye. Recently, intraoperative real-time fluorescent imaging has been applied to various organs but not to mesh infection. A 72-year-old man with the history of two times removal of infected mesh was referred for groin bulge with purulent discharge. Laparoscopy assisted infected mesh removal was undertaken using intraoperative real-time fluorescent imaging with indocyanine green injection via the sinus orifice. We experienced the first case of the infected mesh with chronic sinus formation treated by the help of intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescent. This method is simple and easy to apply for laparoscopic assisted removal of chronic mesh infection with sinus.

Indocyanine green fluorescent lymphography during open inguinal hernia repair in a patient who developed postoperative ultrasonic hydrocele: A case report

BACKGROUND

To our knowledge, no reports of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent lymphography during inguinal hernia repair currently exist. We report the case of a patient who underwent ICG fluorescent lymphography during open inguinal hernia repair.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 63-year-old man was referred to our department for treatment of a right inguinal hernia, during which an ICG lymphography was performed. The patient had a history of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. Following induction of general anesthesia, 0.25 mg of ICG was injected into the right testicle and the scrotum was gently massaged, after which an open inguinal hernia repair was performed. During the operation, fluorescence from the ICG was observed in two lymphatic vessels in the spermatic cord. The ICG fluorescent vessels were resected due to the strong adhesion between the lymphatic vessels and the hernia sac. ICG leakage was observed in the resected vessels. An open tension-free technique was performed using an open mesh plug. The patient was discharged one day postoperatively. The histological diagnosis of the resected vessel was a lymphatic vessel. He had a slight postoperative hydrocele that was detected at the follow-up clinic 10 days postoperatively during ultrasonic examination (ultrasonic hydrocele).

CONCLUSION

We report the use of ICG fluorescent lymphography during open inguinal hernia repair in a patient who developed postoperative ultrasonic hydrocele. This case may indicate a relationship between lymphatic vessel injury and hydrocele.

Preperitoneal herniation as a complication of tansabdominal preperitoneal patch plasty: a report of two cases

BACKGROUND

Preperitoneal herniation is a rare complication after transabdominal preperitoneal patch plasty (TAPP) and may be caused by inadequate peritoneal closure. We herein report two cases of postoperative small bowel obstruction due to preperitoneal herniation through a disrupted peritoneum.

CASE PRESENTATION

Two men in their 70s were admitted to our center because of small bowel obstruction after TAPP. After examinations and unsuccessful conservative treatment, emergency laparoscopic exploration was performed. Preperitoneal herniation through the disrupted peritoneum was found. The herniated small bowel was reduced and the peritoneum was properly reclosed. The patients recovered and were discharged with normal bowel function.

CONCLUSIONS

Inadequate peritoneal closure may cause preperitoneal herniation and lead to postoperative small bowel obstruction and even death. Hernia surgeons can avoid this complication by improving their suture technique and paying attention to the procedure details.

Is Minimally Invasive Repair the New Gold Standard for Primary Unilateral Inguinal Hernias? Results of an International Survey of Surgeons

Background: The Lichtenstein repair has long been heralded as the gold standard for unilateral primary inguinal hernias. However, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) repairs have gained popularity over the past decades given its advantages in recurrent, bilateral, and now even in primary inguinal hernias. We aim to further explore the perception of different techniques among surgeons internationally. Methods: A questionnaire was posted in three closed groups for surgeons and residents on Facebook^® and surgical groups on WhatsApp^®. It was also e-mailed to members of the following surgical societies: Mexican Society of Surgery, Brazilian Hernia Society, Asia Pacific Hernia Society, and European Hernia Society. Descriptive and basic comparative statistical analyses were performed. Results: In total, 874 surgeons answered the survey: 759 (86.9%) were male and 418 (47.8%) were from North America, 735 (84.1%) had completed training and 605 (69.2%) considered themselves hernia specialists. If safety profiles of inguinal herniorrhaphy were equal, 533 (61%) would choose MIS. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal ranked first among preferred techniques if the cost of all techniques was the same. Safety of the procedure followed by experience of the surgeon is the most influential factors. Lastly, hernia specialists were more likely to choose an MIS technique (P < .0001). Conclusion: When an international sample of 874 attending and trainee surgeons were surveyed about what technique they would prefer to repair their own uncomplicated unilateral inguinal hernia, most chose MIS. Safety of the procedure and the surgeon's experience were the most important factors in choosing a surgical technique.

Indirect inguinal hernia containing portosystemic shunt vessel: A case report

BACKGROUND

Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most common general surgical operations worldwide. We present a case of indirect inguinal hernia containing an expanded portosystemic shunt vessel.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a 72-year-old man who had a 4 cm × 4 cm swelling in the right inguinal region, which disappeared with light manual pressure. Abdominal-pelvic computed tomography (CT) revealed a right inguinal hernia containing an expanded portosystemic shunt vessel, which had been noted for 7 years due to liver cirrhosis. We performed Lichtenstein’s herniorrhaphy and identified the hernia sac as being indirect and the shunt vessel existing in the extraperitoneal cavity through the internal inguinal ring. Then, we found two short branches between the expanded shunt vessel and testicular vein in the middle part of the inguinal canal and cut these branches to allow the shunt vessel to return to the extraperitoneal cavity of the abdomen. The hernia sac was returned as well. We encountered no intraoperative complications. After discharge, groin seroma requiring puncture at the outpatient clinic was observed.

CONCLUSION

If an inguinal hernia patient has portal hypertension, ultrasound should be used to determine the contents of the hernia. When atypical vessels are visualized, they may be shunt vessels and additional CT is recommended to ensure the selection of an adequate approach for safe hernia repair.

Ten-year trends in minimally invasive hernia repair: a NSQIP database review

BACKGROUND

Utilization of minimally invasive techniques for ventral and inguinal hernia repairs continues to rise. The purpose of this study was to provide updates on national utilization trends and wound complications of minimally invasive versus open ventral and inguinal hernia repairs.

METHODS

Data were accessed from the 2006 to 2017 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. All CPT codes that correlated to laparoscopic and open inguinal and ventral hernia repairs were queried. The total number of cases and wound complications, including superficial surgical site infection (SSI), deep SSI, organ space SSI, and wound dehiscence, was collected for each respective CPT code and compared for each year. IBM SPSS Statistics Software and Microsoft Excel were used to collect and analyze the data.

RESULTS

Between 2009 and 2017, the percentage of minimally invasive inguinal hernia repairs increased from 23.1 to 37.8%, whereas the percentage of minimally invasive ventral hernias only increased from 31.5 to 36.6%. Open inguinal hernia repairs had a wound complication rate ranging from 0.60 to 0.74%, which was double the rate of minimally invasive repairs (0.24 to 0.49%) for nearly each respective year. Minimally invasive ventral hernia repairs had total wound complication rates ranging from 0.91 to 1.37%, whereas open ventral hernias had the highest total wound complication rates ranging from 5.07 to 6.26%.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the last ten years, the utilization of minimally invasive inguinal and ventral hernia repair has increased by nearly two-fold. A larger proportion of this increase has been secondary to minimally invasive inguinal compared to ventral hernia repairs. Wound complications across all techniques remained stable or improved, and remained significantly less in the minimally invasive compared to open approaches. This study highlights the continued growth of minimally invasive techniques in hernia repair over the last decade.

Rare Intraoperative and Postoperative Complications After Transabdominal Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: Results from the Multicenter Wall Hernia Group Registry

Background: Inguinal hernioplasty is the most frequently performed operation in the Western world today. Although the laparoscopic approach for inguinal hernia repair has shown excellent results in terms of complications and recurrences, the anterior approach is still the most used. Postoperative pain and recurrences are the most widely studied complications in both approaches, but there is little information about the often more troublesome rare complications of laparoscopic surgery and their treatment. Methods: In the period from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2019, 1874 hernioplasty operations were performed with the transabdominal approach and recorded prospectively in the Wall Hernia Group database. The mean follow-up was 47 months (range 3-64 months). All less frequent complications were analyzed and a literature review was carried out to assess the presence of similar cases and their treatment in other series. Results: Eight cases of rare complications were identified and subdivided according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. They included a bowel perforation, 4 cases of bleeding, 2 bowel obstructions, and an injury to the motor branch of the obturator nerve. The postoperative course in these patients was significantly longer than in patients with a regular postoperative course. In 2 cases the complication occurred during the first admission, while the remaining 6 patients had to be readmitted within 30 days after discharge. Conclusions: Although serious postoperative complications in laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty are rare, all surgeons, also those who have completed the learning curve, should be aware of their possible occurrence.

Laparoscopic evaluation and management of 47 patients with late-onset mesh infection after inguinal hernioplasty

INTRODUCTION

Mesh infection after inguinal hernioplasty can be complicated especially when it is caused by chronic fistula. Explantation of the infected mesh is inevitable when conservative treatment fails and is considered to be the key step toward development of future therapies. Our purpose was to determine the results of laparoscopic exploration and summarize the treatment experience of the late-onset mesh infection.

METHODS

We analyzed 47 patients with late-onset mesh infection treated at our hernia center. The medical records of these patients were retrospectively reviewed, and information regarding presentation, approach of previous hernia repair, type of mesh, operative findings, bacteriological examination result, and postoperative complications were obtained. All of the patients underwent laparoscopic exploration to identify the abscess and fistula, further debridement and treatment was performed afterwards according to the exploration results.

RESULTS

All the operative courses were uneventful. Laparoscopy revealed four intestinal fistula and one bladder fistula. Four cases of all underwent debridement and drainage using laparoscopic approach only, and the others were converted to open surgery after laparoscopic exploration to remove the infected mesh. There were two hernia recurrence and nine wound infection during the follow-up period; all the patients had an eventually recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic exploration is an effective and minimally invasive method for managing the late-onset infection which can identify whether internal organ was involved and consult for the further treatment. The approach of mesh removal should be tailored according to the exploration results.

Nationwide Analysis of Inpatient Laparoscopic Versus Open Inguinal Hernia Repair

Background: Inguinal hernia repair is one of the more common procedures performed in the United States. The optimal surgical approach, however, remains controversial. We aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes and costs between laparoscopic and open inpatient inguinal hernia repairs in a national cohort. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the National Inpatient Sample during the period 2009-2015. Adult patients (≥18 years old) undergoing laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia repair were included. Multivariable logistic, generalized logistic, and linear regression were used to assess the effect of the laparoscopic approach on postoperative complications, mortality, length of stay, and hospital charges. Results: A total of 41,937 patients undergoing open inguinal hernia repair (N = 36,575) and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (N = 5282) were included. Patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair were less likely to have postoperative wound complications (odds ratio [OR]: 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41-0.98), infection (OR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.27-0.42), bleeding (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.63-0.82), cardiac failure (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.64-0.82), renal failure (OR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.47-0.62), respiratory failure (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58-0.85), and inpatient mortality (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.17-0.40). On average, the laparoscopic approach reduced length of stay by 1.28 days (95% CI: -1.58 to -1.18), and decreased hospital costs by $2400 (95% CI: -$4700 to -$700). Conclusion: Laparoscopic hernia repair is associated with significantly lower rates of postoperative morbidity and mortality, shorter length of hospital stays, and lower hospital costs for inpatient repairs. The laparoscopic approach should be encouraged for the management of appropriate patients with inpatient inguinal hernias.

Inguinal tumorous mass - an uncommon late manifestation of chronic organized hematoma after laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair: Two cases report

BACKGROUND

Hematoma is a common complication following inguinal hernia repair. It is usually diagnosed early after surgical procedure and is spontaneously, or after evacuation, resorbed. Chronic organized hematoma is rare surgery complication, there is no relevant article after laparoscopic hernia repair in literature.

CASES PRESENTATION

62- and 54-year-old men presented a groin palpable tumorous mass several month after uncomplicated laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. Their dominant complaints were mechanical restrictions. The ultrasound showed a solid formation subcutaneously. The removal and histopathology examination confirmed a chronic organized hematoma and at the same time, this ended the patients 'problems.

CONCLUSION

Both patients represent uncommon cases of late postoperative difficulties, uncharacteristic localization of chronic organized hematoma and the need for surgical reintervention to exclude neoplasm.

Robotic inguinal hernia repair: is technology taking over? Systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To examine the current evidence on the therapeutic role and outcomes of robotic Transabdominal Preperitoneal Inguinal hernia repair (rTAPP) to better define its risk-benefit ratio and guide clinical decision-making.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were consulted. A Frequentist single-arm study-level random effect meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Twelve studies published between 2015 and 2018 met the inclusion criteria (1645 patients). Patients' age ranged from 16 to 96, the BMI ranged from 19 to 35.6 kg/m², and 86.1% were males. Unilateral hernia repair was performed in 69.6% while bilateral hernia repair was performed in 30.4% of patients. The operations were all conducted using the da Vinci Xi or Si robotic system (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA, USA). The rTAPP was successfully completed in 99.4% of patients and the operative time ranged from 45 to 180.4 min. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 16 to 368 days. The estimated pooled prevalence of intraoperative complications and conversion were 0.03% (95% CI 0.00-0.3) and 0.14% (95% CI 0.0-0.5%), respectively. The estimated pooled prevalence of urinary retention, seroma/hematoma, and overall complications were 3.5% (95% CI 1.6-5.8%), 4.1% (95% CI 1.6-7.5%), and 7.4% (95% CI 3.4-10.9%). The estimated pooled prevalence of hernia recurrence was 0.18% (95% CI 0.00-0.84%).

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic technology has been progressively entering surgical thinking and gradually changing surgical procedures. Based on the results of the present study, the rTAPP seems feasible, safe, and effective in the short term for patients with unilateral and bilateral inguinal hernias. Further prospective studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings.

Primary inguinal hernia: systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis comparing open, laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal, totally extraperitoneal, and robotic preperitoneal repair

PURPOSE

The Open Lichtenstein technique, the Laparoscopic Trans-Abdominal PrePeritoneal (TAPP), the Totally Extra Peritoneal (TEP), and the robotic TAPP (rTAPP) are commonly performed. The aim of the present network meta-analysis was to globally compare short-term outcomes within these major surgical techniques for primary unilateral inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were consulted. A fully Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies (51.037 patients) were included. Overall, 35.5% underwent Open, 33.5% TAPP, 30.7% TEP, and 0.3% rTAPP. The postoperative seroma risk ratio (RR) was comparable considering TAPP vs. Open (RR 0.91; 95% CrI 0.50-1.62), TEP vs. Open (RR 0.64; 95% CrI 0.32-1.33), TEP vs. TAPP (RR 0.70; 95% CrI 0.39-1.31), and rTAPP vs. Open (RR 0.98; 95% CrI 0.37-2.51). The postoperative chronic pain RR was similar for TAPP vs. Open (RR 0.53; 95% CrI 0.27-1.20), TEP vs. Open (RR 0.86; 95% CrI 0.48-1.16), and TEP vs. TAPP (RR 1.70; 95% CrI 0.63-3.20). The recurrence RR was comparable when comparing TAPP vs. Open (RR 0.96; 95% CrI 0.57-1.51), TEP vs. Open (RR 1.0; 95% CrI 0.65-1.61), TEP vs. TAPP (RR 1.10; 95% CrI 0.63-2.10), and rTAPP vs. Open (RR 0.98; 95% CrI 0.45-2.10). No differences were found in term of postoperative hematoma, surgical site infection, urinary retention, and hospital length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that Open, TAPP, TEP, and rTAPP seem comparable in the short term. The surgical management of inguinal hernia is evolving and the effect of the adoption of innovative minimally invasive techniques should be further investigated in the long term. Ultimately, the choice of the most suitable treatment should be based on individual surgeon expertise and tailored on each patient.

Transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) versus open Lichtenstein hernia repair. Comparison of the systemic inflammatory response and the postoperative pain1

Purpose

To compare open Lichtenstein repair and laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair to treat primary unilateral hernia, regarding systemic inflammatory response, postoperative pain, and complications.

Methods

A non-randomized prospective cohort study, with the preoperative and postoperative (24 hours) collection of blood samples for C reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), leukocyte and neutrophil analysis. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to quantify the level of pain, and the operative time was correlated with the inflammatory response. VAS and CRP were also obtained on the 8th postoperative day.

Results

Groups were homogeneous regarding preoperative characteristics. There were no differences between groups in 24h values of CRP, IL-6, leukocytes, neutrophils or VAS. Similarly, CRP and VAS did not differ between groups on the 8th postoperative day. However, the operative time for laparoscopic hernia repair was longer than the time for the open procedure. There was a weak correlation (r coefficient 0.31) between the duration of the surgical procedure and the VAS score at the eighth day.

Conclusions

There were no statistically significant differences in the inflammatory response, pain scores, or complications between groups. We conclude that there is no advantage performing a primary unilateral hernia repair by laparoscopy.

Current status of single-port versus multi-port approach in laparoscopic inguinal hernia mesh repair: an up-to-date systematic review and meta-analysis

A meta-analysis was conducted to provide an up-to-date comparison of single-port and multi-port approach, in laparoscopic inguinal hernia mesh repair. This meta-analysis was performed on the basis of the PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The electronic databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials) were systematically screened. Fixed Effects or Random Effects model was used, according to the Cochran Q test. In total 16 eligible studies were found. There was no statistically significant difference, regarding unilateral operation duration, between the two approaches, in TEP (OR - 4.61; 95% CI - 9.70, 0.47, p = 0.08) or TAPP (OR - 1.96; 95% CI - 4.89, 0.97, p = 0.19) procedures. Similarly, in both operative modalities, no superiority of either approach was proven, in terms of conversion rate (TEP OR 0.69, p = 0.48; TAPP OR 5.46, p = 0.31), length of hospital stay (TEP WMD 0.00, p = 0.76; TAPP WMD - 0.11, p = 0.42) and overall complication rate (TEP OR 1.10, p = 0.51; TAPP OR 0.74, p = 0.43). Overall, single-port and the established multi-port approach in inguinal hernia mesh repair, are equivalent, regarding the postoperative outcomes. Given several limitations, further RCTs, of higher methodological and quality level are required.

Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Repair of Scrotal Inguinal Hernias

BACKGROUND

Scrotal inguinal hernias represent a challenging surgical pathology. Although some advanced laparoscopists can repair these hernias through a minimally invasive approach, open repair is considered the technique of choice for most surgeons. The purpose of this study is to show our results of robotic-assisted laparoscopic repair of scrotal inguinal hernias.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed the charts of 14 patients with inguinoscrotal hernias who underwent robotic-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair. Mean follow-up was 7 months. The European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernia Quality of Life score, a 90-point scale, was utilized to quantify patient reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Robotic TAPP repair was successful in all 14 patients. Average case duration was 100 minutes (78 to 140 min) for unilateral hernias and 208 minutes (166 to 238 min) for bilateral hernias. Trainees were involved in 93% (13/14) of cases. There were no recurrences. Three patients developed postoperative seromas. The mean European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernia Quality of Life score was 3.7 (0 to 10).

CONCLUSIONS

Scrotal hernias can be safely repaired using robotic-assisted TAPP methods with low morbidity and favorable patient reported outcomes.

Minimally invasive versus open surgery in the Medicare population: a comparison of post-operative and economic outcomes

BACKGROUND

Despite strong evidence demonstrating the clinical and economic benefits of minimally invasive surgery (MIS), utilization of MIS in the Medicare population is highly variable and tends to be lower than in the general population. We sought to compare the post-operative and economic outcomes of MIS versus open surgery for seven common surgical procedures in the Medicare population.

METHODS

Using the 2014 Medicare Provider Analysis and Review Inpatient Limited Data Set, patients undergoing bariatric, cholecystectomy, colectomy, hysterectomy, inguinal hernia, thoracic, and ventral hernia procedures were identified using DRG and ICD-9 codes. Adjusting for patient demographics and comorbidities, the odds of complication and all-cause 30-day re-admission were compared among patients undergoing MIS versus open surgery stratified by operation type. A generalized linear model was used to calculate the estimated difference in length of stay (LOS), Medicare claim cost, and Medicare reimbursement.

RESULTS

Among 233,984 patients, 102,729 patients underwent an open procedure versus 131,255 who underwent an MIS procedure. The incidence of complication after MIS was lower for 5 out of the 7 procedures examined (OR 0.36-0.69). Re-admission was lower for MIS for 6 out of 7 procedures (OR 0.43-0.87). MIS was associated with shorter LOS for 6 procedures (point estimate range 0.35-2.47 days shorter). Medicare claim costs for MIS were lower for 4 (range $3010.23-$4832.74 less per procedure) and Medicare reimbursements were lower for 3 (range $841.10-$939.69 less per procedure).

CONCLUSIONS

MIS benefited Medicare patients undergoing a range of surgical procedures. MIS was associated with fewer complications and re-admissions as well as shorter LOS and lower Medicare costs and reimbursements versus open surgery. MIS may represent a better quality and cost proposition in the Medicare population.