Update of the international HerniaSurge guidelines for groin hernia management

Shouldice versus Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The Lichtenstein technique is the standard treatment for adult open inguinal hernia repair. Among the non-mesh repair techniques, Shouldice has shown the best results and is comparable to mesh repairs in selected cases. Due to the risk of chronic groin pain associated with the Lichtenstein technique, Shouldice has increased in popularity, and some surgeons have adopted it as a viable first-line option.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Cochrane, Central Register of Clinical Trials, and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials (RCT) published until February 2024. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics with p-values <0.10 and I2 > 25% considered significant. Statistical analysis was performed using R Software, version 4.1.2.

RESULTS

Fourteen RCTs comprising 2784 patients were included, of whom 1379 (47.5%) were submitted to the Shouldice hernia repair and 1513 (52.5%) to the Lichtenstein technique. Shouldice was associated with a significant increase in the recurrence rate (4.2% vs. 0.9%; RR 3.68; 95% CI 2.05-6.60; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%) compared with Lichtenstein. The number needed to treat (NNT) to prevent one Shouldice recurrence was 30.3. There were no significant differences between groups in chronic pain, urinary retention, bladder injury, testicular atrophy, wound infection, hematoma-seroma, or hypesthesia.

CONCLUSION

The Lichtenstein technique was associated with reduced recurrence rates compared with Shouldice in patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair. However, the overall recurrence rate with the Shouldice technique was still low (4.2%), suggesting that it may be a viable option in selected patients.

Trends and predictors of laparoscopic compared with open emergent inguinal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic emergent inguinal hernia repair remains controversial despite studies suggesting it is safe and feasible. Variables associated with laparoscopic compared with open emergent inguinal hernia repair are currently not well described. This study aims to investigate patient characteristics and risk factors associated with laparoscopic emergent inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement database was queried for adult patients (age ≥18 years) who had undergone emergent inguinal hernia repair between 2015 and 2021. The relationships between demographic variables and laparoscopic compared with open emergent inguinal hernia repair were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 8,215 patients were included in this analysis. Use of laparoscopic emergent inguinal hernia repair increased from 9% in 2015 to 23% in 2021. Female patients (odds ratio, 1.84, P < .001) and patients aged ≤65 years (odds ratio, 1.25, P = .005) were more likely to undergo laparoscopic repair. Black (odds ratio, 0.73, P = .003) and Hispanic (odds ratio, 0.72, P = .006) patients and patients with greater American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (odds ratio, 0.86, P = .037), ascites (odds ratio, 0.39, P = .039), and preoperative dialysis requirement (odds ratio, 0.45, P = .017) were less likely to undergo laparoscopic repair. Aside from a decreased likelihood of readmission in patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery (odds ratio, 0.696, P = .024), there was no difference in other postoperative outcomes, despite a laparoscopic approach being associated with greater rates of concomitant procedures compared with an open approach (24% vs 18%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Female sex, younger age, and lower American Society of Anesthesiologists class were associated with a greater likelihood of laparoscopic surgery. Black and Hispanic patients and patients with ascites and dialysis requirements were less likely to undergo laparoscopic repair. Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair can be safely performed in an emergent setting.

Polypropylene vs. stainless-steel wire suture: short-term recurrence rate after shouldice primary inguinal hernia repair, a non-inferior analysis among 1120 patients. A case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Polypropylene material is commonly used for posterior wall reconstruction in hernia repair, in contrast with the classically described stainless-steel wire used at Shouldice Hospital. This study was conducted to evaluate possible differences in Shouldice Repair outcomes using polypropylene or stainless-steel wire sutures.

METHODS

A prospective follow-up of consecutive patients who underwent elective unilateral Shouldice primary inguinal hernia repair at Shouldice Hospital between December 6, 2021, and September 1, 2022, was conducted. Data was collected from follow-up telephone calls as well as manually reviewing patient's charts. The primary objective was to determine whether the use of polypropylene was non-inferior to the use of stainless-steel wire, regarding the recurrence rate reported by the patients with a minimum follow-up of 1 year after Shouldice primary inguinal hernia repair.

RESULTS

A total of 1120 patients were contacted by telephone (polypropylene: 560; stainless-steel wire: 560). The median follow-up period was 16 months (interquartile range: 15-18). In 22 (1.96%) cases a surgical site infection was diagnosed. There was a total of 18 recurrences reported by the patients (1.6%). There was no statistical difference between the groups (polypropylene: 7 (1.25%) vs. stainless steel wire: 11 (1.96%), p > 0.05) for the recurrence rate.

CONCLUSION

The use of polypropylene is non-inferior to the use of stainless-steel wire regarding recurrence rate at a median follow-up period of 16 months after elective unilateral Shouldice primary inguinal hernia repair. This finding may encourage other centers where stainless-steel wire is not easily available to perform the Shouldice Repair.

Is previous prostatectomy a risk factor for postoperative complications following minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair? A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

The literature indicates that patients with prior pelvic surgery, particularly radical prostatectomy, pose challenges in minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair (IHR). However, there is no conclusive evidence regarding the impact of pelvic surgery on postoperative complications. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the influence of previous prostatectomy in men undergoing MIS IHR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched Cochrane Central, Scopus, SciELO, Lilacs, and PubMed/MEDLINE for studies comparing men undergoing MIS IHR after prostatectomy with men without previous pelvic surgery. Key outcomes evaluated included recurrence, overall postoperative complications, seroma, hematoma, surgical site infection (SSI), conversion rates, and operative time.

RESULTS

Out of 402 screened studies, 9 met the inclusion criteria. Among the included studies, three analyzed totally extraperitoneal (TEP) technique, while four analyzed transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and two presented both techniques together. The analysis comprised 189,183 patients, of which 4551 (2.4%) had a history of prostatectomy. The analysis revealed that post-prostatectomy patients presented higher postoperative complications (3.7% vs. 1.9%; RR 1.9; 95% CI [1.23; 2.94]; P = 0.004) and seroma (1.6% vs. 0.9%; RR 1.58; 95% CI [1.23; 2.04]; P < 0.001) following MIS IHR. Additionally, patients with a previous prostatectomy presented an increased operative time (MD 21.25 min; 95% CI [19.1; 23.4]; P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in recurrence (0.98% vs. 0.92%; RR 1.1; 95% CI [0.8; 1.53]; P = 0.54), SSI (0.07% VS. 0.07%; RR 0.99; 95% CI [0.34; 2.9]; P = 0.98), hematoma (3.6% vs. 1.2%; RR 3.18; 95% CI [0.84; 12.1]; P = 0.09), and conversion rates (1.1% vs. 0.9%; RR 1.26; 95% CI [0.91; 1.72]; P = 0.16). However, subgroup analysis of TEP technique in patients with previous prostatectomy showed higher conversion rates (2.4% vs. 0%; RR 20; 95% CI [2.9; 138.2]; P < 0.01). Analysis using funnel plots showed the absence of publication bias in the study outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive analysis indicates that patients with a history of prostatectomy undergoing MIS IHR may present higher postoperative complications and an increased operative time. Further comparative studies are needed to evaluate the cumulative impact of MIS IHR in patients with previous prostatectomy.

Open vs. robot-assisted preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. Are they truly clinically different?

INTRODUCTION

Inguinal hernia repair lacks a standard repair technique, with laparo-endoscopic and open preperitoneal methods showing similar outcomes. Despite higher costs, the popularity of robotic surgery is on the rise, driven by technological advantages. Controversies persist in comparing open repair techniques with the robotic approach, given contradictory results. The objective of this study was to compare postoperative outcomes, including complications, chronic pain, and recurrence, between open and robotic-assisted preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study encompassed patients undergoing elective inguinal hernia repair in a specialized unit, employing both open preperitoneal and robotic-assisted laparoscopic approaches from September 2018 to May 2023. Comparative analysis of short- and long-term outcomes between these techniques was conducted. Additionally, multivariate logistic regression was employed to explore predictors of postoperative complications.

RESULTS

A total of 308 patients met the inclusion criteria. 198 (64%) patients underwent surgery using an open preperitoneal approach and 110 (36%) using robot-assisted laparoscopy. Patients in the robot-assisted group were younger (P = 0.006) and had fewer comorbidities (P < 0.001). There were no differences between the groups in terms of postoperative complications (P = 0.133), chronic pain (P = 0.463) or recurrence (P = 0.192). Multivariate analysis identified ASA ≥ III (OR, 1.763; 95%CI, 1.068-3.994; P = 0.027) and inguinoscrotal hernias (OR, 2.371, 95%CI, 1.407-3.944; P = 0.001) as risk factors of postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Both open preperitoneal and robotic-assisted laparoscopic approaches show similar outcomes for complications, chronic pain, and recurrence when performed by experienced surgeons. The open preperitoneal approach, with its quicker operative time, may be advantageous for high-comorbidity cases. Treatment choice should consider patient factors, surgeon experience, and healthcare resources.

Suture repair versus mesh repair in elderly populations with incarcerated or strangulated groin hernia

Tension-free hernia repair is the gold standard for groin hernia repair. However, the optimal surgical treatment for incarcerated or strangulated groin hernia in elderly populations is controversial. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical efficacy of mesh repair and suture repair in the treatment of incarcerated or strangulated groin hernia in elderly patients. Patients ≥ 65 years who underwent urgent surgical repair for incarcerated or strangulated groin hernia from January 2012 to June 2022 were included. Patients' demographic data and postoperative outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with limited life expectancy were screened from the elderly population for subgroup analysis. A total of 103 patients (median age: 84 years old, range 65-96; mean follow-up time: 36.8 ± 24.8 months) were included, involving 42 cases in the suture repair group and 61 cases in the mesh repair group. Suture repair and mesh repair had similar lengths of ICU and hospital stay, and rates of small bowel resection, chronic pain, surgical site infection, and surgical-related death. However, suture repair had a significantly higher recurrence rate than mesh repair (7% vs. 2%, P = 0.04). In our subgroup analysis, for patients with limited life expectancy (41 patients; median age: 88 years old, range: 80-96), suture repair had no statistical difference in postoperative outcomes compared with mesh repair. Mesh repair is suitable for elderly patients with acutely incarcerated or strangulated groin hernias. However, for elderly patients with limited life expectancy, suture repair and mesh repair showed similar clinical outcomes.

Concomitant midline ventral and inguinal hernia repair: can we create an algorithmic approach?

PURPOSE

International guidelines exist for surgical treatment of either ventral or inguinal hernias repair (VHR; IHR). However, approach for managing both of them remains unestablished and is further complicated by newly developed surgical techniques and modalities (namely, robotic). This highlights the need for a tailored, algorithmic strategy to streamline surgical management.

METHODS

An algorithm was developed by the directors of the NYU Langone Abdominal Core Health program of which four treatment groups were described: Group 1: open VHR and either laparoscopic or robotic IHR; Group 2: robotic transabdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) approach for both VHR and IHR; Group 3: robotic retro-muscular VHR and IHR; and Group 4: open repair for both. Demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, and surgical outcomes from November 2021 to July 2023 were retrospectively compared.

RESULTS

Ninety-two patients were included with a median age of 64 years, 90% (n = 83) were white, 85% (n = 78) were male, median BMI was 27 kg/m2, and 73% (n = 67) were ASA class II. Distribution of groups was: 48% (n = 44) in 1A, 8% (n = 7) in 1B, 8% (n = 7) in 2A, 3% (n = 3) in 2B, 23% (n = 21) in 3A, 8% (n = 7) in 3B, and 3% (n = 3) in 4. Ventral hernia size, OR time, and postoperative length of stay varied across groups. Postoperative outcomes at 30 days including emergency consults, readmissions, and complications, showed no differences across groups.

CONCLUSION

Access without guidance to new minimally invasive surgical approaches can be a challenge for the general surgeon. We propose an algorithm for decision-making based on our experience of incorporating robotic surgery, when available, for repair of concomitant VHR and IHR with consistent favorable outcomes within a small sample of patients.

Is mesh pore size in polypropylene meshes associated with the outcome in Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair: a registry-based analysis of 22,141 patients

INTRODUCTION

Experimental data show that large-pored meshes reduce foreign body reaction, inflammation and scar bridging and thus improve mesh integration. However, clinical data on the effect of mesh porosity on the outcome of hernioplasty are limited. This study investigated the relation of pore size in polypropylene meshes to the outcome of Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty using data from the Herniamed registry.

METHODS

This analysis of data from the Herniamed registry evaluated perioperative and 1-year follow-up outcomes in patients undergoing elective, primary, unilateral Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair using polypropylene meshes. Patients operated with a non-polypropylene mesh or a polypropylene mesh with absorbable components were excluded. Polypropylene meshes with a pore size of 1.0 × 1.0 mm or less were defined as small-pored meshes, while a pore size of more than 1.0 × 1.0 mm was considered large-pored. Unadjusted analyses and multivariable analyses were performed to investigate the relation of pore size of polypropylene meshes, patient and surgical characteristics to the outcome parameters.

RESULTS

Data from 22,141 patients were analyzed, of which 6853 (31%) were operated on with a small-pore polypropylene mesh and 15,288 (69%) with a large-pore polypropylene mesh. No association of mesh pore size with intraoperative, general or postoperative complications, recurrence rate or pain requiring treatment was found at 1-year follow-up. A lower risk of complication-related reoperation tended to be associated with small-pore size (p = 0.086). Furthermore, small-pore mesh repair was associated with a lower risk of pain at rest and pain on exertion at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The present study could not demonstrate an advantage of large-pore polypropylene meshes for the outcome of Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty.

Transinguinal preperitoneal (TIPP) versus minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The transinguinal preperitoneal (TIPP) technique is an open approach to groin hernia repair with posteriorly positioned mesh supposed to reduce recurrence rates. However, transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) techniques have similar mesh positioning with the advantages of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Hence, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing TIPP and MIS for groin hernia repair.

SOURCE

Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, Scielo, and PubMed were systematically searched for studies comparing TIPP and MIS techniques for groin hernia repair. Outcomes assessed were recurrence, chronic pain, surgical site infection (SSI), seroma, and hematoma. We performed a subgroup analysis of TAPP and TEP techniques separately. Statistical analysis was performed with R Studio.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

81 studies were screened and 19 were thoroughly reviewed. Six studies were included, of which two compared TIPP with TEP technique, two compared TIPP with TAPP, and two compared TIPP with both TEP and TAPP techniques. We found lower recurrence rates for the TEP technique compared to TIPP (0.38% versus 1.19%; RR 2.68; 95% CI 1.01 to 7.11; P = 0.04). Also, we found lower seroma rates for TIPP group on the overall analysis (RR 0.21; P = 0.002). We did not find statistically significant differences regarding overall recurrence (RR 1.6; P = 0.19), chronic pain (RR 1.53; P = 0.2), SSI (RR 2.51; P = 0.47), and hematoma (RR 1.29; P = 0.76) between MIS and TIPP. No statistically significant differences were found in the subgroup analysis of TAPP technique for all the outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Our systematic review and meta-analysis found no differences between TIPP and MIS approaches in the overall analysis of recurrence, SSI, and chronic pain rates. Further research is needed to analyze individual techniques and draw a more precise conclusion on this subject.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

ID CRD42024530107, April 8, 2024.

Potential applications of single-incision laparoscopic totally preperitoneal hernioplasty

BACKGROUND

The totally preperitoneal (TPP) approach is a new concept that was recently introduced. Although the TPP approach combined with single-incision laparoscopic hernia repair has its own advantages, there is little evidence reflecting the characteristics and feasibility of either approach.

AIM

To analyze the potential applications of single-incision laparoscopic TPP (SIL-TPP) inguinal hernia hernioplasty for the treatment of inguinal hernias.

METHODS

A total of 152 SIL-TPP surgeries were performed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University from February 2019 to November 2022. A single-port, named Iconport, and standard laparoscopic instruments were used during the operation. Demographic data, intraoperative parameters and short-term postoperative outcomes were collected and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The demographic data of 152 patients underwent SIL-TPP were shown in Table 1. The average age was 49.5 years (range from 21 to 81 years). The average body mass index was 27.7 kg/m2 (range from 17.7 kg/m2 to 35.6 kg/m2). SIL-TPP were conducted successfully in 147 patients. Three patients were converted to the SIL-transabdominal preperitoneal laparoscopic herniorrhaphy at the initial stage of the study due to a lack of experience. In 2 patients with incisional hernias, an auxiliary operation hole was added during the SIL-TPP procedure, as required for surgery. The mean operative time was 64.5 minutes (range: 36.0-110.0 minutes) for unilateral direct and femoral hernias and 81.6 minutes for indirect hernias (range: 40.0-150.0 minutes). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.4 days.

CONCLUSION

SIL-TPP is feasible and has advantages for inguinal hernia repair. SIL-TPP has potential benefits for patients with various abdominal wall hernias. Consequently, doctors should be encouraged to actively apply the TPP approach combined with a single incision in their daily work.

TEP or TAPP: who, when, and how?

Groin hernia repair is the most common procedure performed by general surgeons. The open mesh technique generally represents the main technique for an inguinal repair, but a different approach is often required. Laparoscopy was found to be the answer to minimizing the impact of the preperitoneal open techniques described by Nyhus and Stoppa. The introduction of the totally extraperitoneal hernia repair (TEP) and transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP) in the early 1990s started a new chapter in groin hernia surgery. The minimally invasive techniques vs. open mesh, and then one against the other, soon became a hot topic among abdominal wall surgeons. With time, the number of procedures and indications increased and are still increasing. This review aims to provide an overview of the two main laparoscopic techniques for groin hernia repair, answering the following questions: Who should perform them? What is the learning curve required to minimize complications and optimize operative time? When is a minimally invasive approach indicated, and which one (both in elective and in emergency setting)? How are they performed? The standard techniques have been described in detail, and personal observations from an abdominal wall surgery referral center were added. The main reviews from the early 2000s up to date, which compared the techniques, were analyzed, and the results reported, confirming the comparable safety and efficacy of both these techniques.

Initial experience of minimally invasive mesh explantation for inguinodynia

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain after minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair with mesh can have debilitating effects on quality of life (QOL), limiting daily activities and ability to work. Many medical and surgical options for treatment have been proposed, however there is no consensus on the role of mesh explantation in the management of these patients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all patients who underwent groin mesh removal by robotic or laparoscopic approach from July 2012 to July 2023 at our institution. Patients were interviewed post-operatively to determine their overall pain scores and QOL was assessed using the Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS) Questionnaire. Patient characteristics, operative times, pre-operative imaging techniques and analgesia use was also recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients underwent groin mesh removal for chronic pain, including 12 robotic and 10 laparoscopic operations. The mean pre-operative pain score in all patients was 7.6/10 compared to 4.0/10 post-operatively. The mean post-operative CCS score was 24, indicating moderate discomfort. Four patients demonstrated CCS scores <11 indicating no discomfort and no patients demonstrated CCS scores >90, indicating severe debilitating discomfort. The majority of patients had a reduction or total cessation of analgesia intake post-operatively.

CONCLUSION

Both laparoscopic and robotic mesh explantation for treatment of chronic pain post-inguinal hernia repair is safe and effective in achieving a reduction in pain and reducing the need for long-term analgesia.

Transabdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) versus totally extraperitoneal (TEP) laparoscopic techniques for inguinal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

An inguinal hernia occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal muscles. In adults, this common condition is much more likely in men than in women. Inguinal hernia can be monitored by 'watchful waiting', but if symptoms persist or worsen, surgery is usually required, which can be open or laparoscopic. Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair of inguinal hernias in adults is generally performed using either the transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) or the totally extraperitoneal (TEP) method. Both methods include the use of mesh placed in front of the peritoneal lining of the abdominal wall, but for the TAPP technique, the abdominal cavity needs to be entered to place the mesh, and for the TEP technique, the whole procedure is done on the outside of the peritoneal lining of the abdominall wall. Whether one method is superior to the other has not been established, and there is debate about their relative benefits and harms. An advantage of TEP is its avoidance of the abdominal cavity; the downside is that it requires a steeper learning curve for clinicians. TAPP is considered simpler and makes it possible to inspect the contralateral side, but TAPP may have a higher risk of visceral injury compared to TEP. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2005.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the benefits and harms of laparoscopic TAPP technique versus laparoscopic TEP technique for inguinal hernia repair in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

On 25 October 2022, the authors searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library; Ovid MEDLINE(R) Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE(R) Daily, and Ovid MEDLINE(R); and Ovid Embase, for published randomised controlled trials. To identify studies in progress, we searched ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (ICTRP).

SELECTION CRITERIA

All prospective randomised, quasi-randomised, and cluster-randomised trials that compared the laparoscopic TAPP technique with the laparoscopic TEP technique for inguinal hernia repair in adults were eligible for inclusion. We included studies that involved a mix of different types of groin hernia if we could extract data for the inguinal hernias. Studies may have also included a group of participants receiving hernia repair by open surgery, but these groups were not included in our review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Both review authors independently evaluated trial eligibility, extracted data from included studies, and assessed the risk of bias in the included studies. The review's primary outcomes were serious adverse events, chronic pain (persisting for at least six months after surgery), and hernia recurrence. We also assessed a variety of secondary outcomes at perioperative, early postoperative, and late postoperative time points. We performed statistical analyses using the random-effects model, and expressed the results as odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MDs) for continuous outcomes, with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for key outcomes as high, moderate, low or very low.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 23 studies in this review update, which randomised 1156 people to TAPP and 1110 people to TEP, all requiring repair of inguinal hernias. Study sample sizes varied from 40 to 316 participants. The vast majority of study participants were male. We judged most studies to be at 'high' or 'unclear' risk of bias. Our judgements of the certainty of the evidence were low or very low for all outcomes we assessed. There may be little to no difference between TAPP and TEP laparoscopic techniques for serious adverse events (0.4% versus 0.7%; OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.15 to 2.32, P = 0.45, I2 = 0%; 19 studies, 1735 participants; low certainty of evidence); and hernia recurrence (1.2% versus 1.1%; OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.49 to 2.62, P = 0.97, I2 = 0%; 17 studies, 1712 participants; low certainty of evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effects of TAPP versus TEP techniques on chronic pain (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.97, P = 0.68, I2 = 0%; 6 studies, 860 participants; very low certainty of evidence). In terms of secondary outcomes, the evidence is very uncertain for TAPP versus TEP techniques for perioperative visceral and vascular injury (15 studies, 1523 participants; very low certainty of evidence), and for haematoma or seroma during the early (≤ 30 days) postoperative phase (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.37, P = 0.3861, I2 = 0%; 15 studies, 1423 participants; very low certainty of evidence). TEP technique may carry a higher risk of conversion to another hernia repair method (either TAPP technique or open surgery) when compared to TAPP (2.5% versus 0.7%; OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.84, P = 0.02, I2 = 0%; 13 studies, 1178 participants; low certainty of evidence). Only two studies (474 participants) reported quality of life in the late (> 30 days) postoperative phase; overall, there was an improvement in quality of life from the pre- to post-operative assessment, but the evidence suggests little to no difference between the techniques (low certainty of evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review update found that there may be little to no difference between the TAPP and TEP techniques for serious adverse events, hernia recurrence, or chronic pain (low- to very-low-certainty evidence). Decisions about which method to use will most likely reflect surgeon and patient preference until high-certainty evidence becomes available. There may be a higher risk of needing to convert from TEP to TAPP or open surgery when compared to the risk of needing to convert from TAPP to open surgery (low-certainty evidence). If surgeons opt for TEP as their standard laparoscopic method, they could consider having a strategy for how to handle the potential need for conversion. This might include proficiency in the TAPP approach or having informed the patient about the risk of conversion to open surgery. For surgeons or surgical departments, the choice of a laparoscopic technique should involve shared decision-making with patients and their families or carers. Future research could focus on patient-reported outcomes, such as quality of life.

Comparative analysis of different surgical approaches for recurrent inguinal hernia: a single-center observational study

Purpose

Managing recurrent inguinal hernias is complex, and choosing the right surgical approach (laparoscopic vs. open) is vital for patient outcomes. This study compared the outcomes of using the same vs. different surgical approaches for initial and subsequent hernia repairs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent recurrent inguinal hernia repair at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital between January 2014 and May 2023. Patients were divided into the "concordant" and "discordant" groups, comprising patients who underwent same and different approaches in both surgeries, respectively. Preoperative baseline characteristics, index surgery data, postoperative outcomes, and recurrence rates were analyzed and compared.

Results

In total, 131 patients were enrolled; the concordant and discordant groups comprised 31 (open, n = 19; laparoscopic, n = 12) and 100 patients (open to laparoscopic, n = 68; laparoscopic to open, n = 32), respectively. No significant differences were observed in the mean operation time (50.5 ± 21.7 minutes vs. 50.2 ± 20.0 minutes, P = 0.979), complication rates (6.5% vs. 14.0%, P = 0.356), or 36-month cumulative recurrence rates (9.8% vs. 9.8%; P = 0.865). The mean postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the discordant than in the concordant group (1.8 ± 0.7 vs. 1.4 ± 0.6, P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Most recurrent inguinal hernia repairs were performed using the discordant surgical approach. Overall, concordance in the surgical approach did not significantly affect postoperative outcomes. Therefore, the selection of the surgical approach based on the patient's condition and surgeon's preference may be advisable.

Abdominal wall surgery units accreditation. The Spanish model

The Spanish Association of Surgeons (AEC) deems it essential to define and regulate the acquisition of high-specialization competencies within General Surgery and Gastrointestinal Surgery and proposes the Regulation for the accreditation of specialized surgical units. The AEC aims to define specialized surgical units as those functional elements of the health system that meet the defined requirements regarding their provision, solvency, and specialization in care, teaching, and research. In this paper we present the proposed accreditation model for Abdominal Wall Surgery Units, as well as the results of a survey conducted to assess the status of such units in our country. The model presented represents one of the pioneering initiatives worldwide concerning the accreditation of Abdominal Wall Surgery Units.

Temporal patterns for inguinal hernia recurrence operations after Shouldice Repair

PURPOSE

Shouldice Repair for inguinal hernias results in a low recurrence rate; however, little is known about the risk factors for these relapses. In the present study, we reviewed all patient's undergoing a reoperation for recurrence after a primary Shouldice Repair.

METHODS

Patients undergoing recurrent inguinal hernia repair from 2013 to 2017 were identified. The subgroup of patients with the first recurrence after a Shouldice Repair at this institution was selected and included. Data collection from the index and the reoperation surgery were performed, as well as statistical analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 125 patients were included in the analysis. The mean age was 50.8 ± 13.9 (body mass index: 24.6 ± 2.6 kg/m2), 97% were male. The most common interval for a recurrence reoperation was in the first 5 years following the initial surgery (37.6% of patients; mode: 1 year; median: 7 years; mean: 13.7 ± 13.8 years). A temporal median pattern for recurrence reoperation according to age interval was noted (patients < 41 years old: 20 years; patients aged 41-60 years old: 10 years and patients > 61 years: 2 years)).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing reoperations for recurrent inguinal hernias after a primary Shouldice Repair presented a pattern of temporal recurrence according to age. Older patients present with earlier recurrences than younger ones, an important consideration in the assessment of patients postoperatively.

Long-term evaluation of the Hernia Compact course of the German Hernia School

INTRODUCTION

Since 2011, the German Hernia Society has developed the German Hernia School (GHS) as a standardized hernia surgery training program for younger surgeons, consisting of the Hernia Compact basic module. It is a standardized three day training program (cadaver workshop, ultrasound simulation training, and hands-on training). After 12 years of experience, a survey was conducted to evaluate the long term effect of this training.

METHOD

Using an anonymous online-questionnaire, we contacted from September 2023 to October 2023 the Hernia Compact course participants via the congress organizer "Weitmeer" and the German Hernia Society. This online questionnaire contains 18 multiple choice questions regarding participants' age, gender, professional experience, participation in other modules of the German Hernia School, the effect of the course on their daily practice and their specific interest in hernia and abdominal wall surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 146 participants responded to the anonymous online questionnaire. A majority of 132 of 146 participants (90.42%) responded that this course improved the quality of surgical and hernia training (n = 146, no missing data). 141 of 146 individuals (96.58%) recommended the course to surgical colleagues (n = 146, no missing data). There were 89.73% of participants, (n = 146, no missing data) that developed a specific interest in hernia and abdominal wall surgery after the course. For 78.08% (n = 146, no missing data) of participants hernia and abdominal wall surgery was one of the most important activities in their daily surgical practice.

CONCLUSION

The standardized Hernia Compact basic course of the German Hernia School appears to have a huge impact on the quality of hernia surgery training in Germany and Austria. It might also help generate a specific interest in hernia surgery among participants.

Open preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair has superior 1-year patient-reported outcomes compared to Shouldice non-mesh repair

INTRODUCTION

The Shouldice method for inguinal hernia repair remains the gold standard for prosthesis-free repairs. Nonetheless, international guidelines have favored posterior mesh reinforcement as the standard of care for inguinal hernia repair due to lower risk of recurrence and chronic pain, avoidance of general anesthesia, and favorable biomechanical properties. Recent publications have shown the benefits of an open approach to posterior repairs. Herein, we use the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative (ACHQC) registry to compare patient-reported outcomes after a Shouldice no-mesh repair versus open preperitoneal (OPP) mesh repair.

METHODS

We performed a propensity score matched analysis to compare patient-reported quality of life (QoL) and peri/postoperative outcomes after a Shouldice repair versus OPP. Data from 2012 to 2022 were obtained from the ACHQC, and 1:1 optimal matching was performed. EuraHS scores were used to estimate QoL, and further analysis on the EuraHS domains of pain, aesthetics, and activity restriction were performed between the two cohorts.

RESULTS

Matching resulted in 257 participants in each, Shouldice and OPP cohorts. OPP was associated with a better QoL score compared to Shouldice at 30 days after surgery (Median (IQR) 7.75 (2.0-17.0) vs 13.0 (4.0-26.1); OR 0.559 [0.37, 0.84]; p = 0.003). This difference persisted at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively (OR 0.447 [0.26, 0.75] and 0.492 [0.26, 0.93], respectively). We did not observe any significant differences in hernia recurrence risk at 1-year, or rates of 30-day SSOs/SSIs, postoperative bleeding, peripheral nerve injury, DVTs, or UTIs.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that OPP is associated with significantly better patient-reported QoL, in the first month after surgery and up to 1 year postoperatively, especially with respect to lesser pain, when compared to the Shouldice repair. In specialized inguinal hernia practices, open posterior mesh repairs may lead to better outcomes than non-mesh repairs. We encourage more training in both repairs to facilitate larger prospective studies and evaluation of the generalizability of these results to all surgeons performing IHR.

No Reason to Use Mesh in Groin Hernia Repair in Adolescents

Groin hernias are common and hernia repair is one of the most frequent surgical procedures performed worldwide. Despite this, there is no international guideline on the management of groin hernias in adolescents. Mesh reinforcement is used for repair in adults but not in young children. Adolescents, positioned between these age groups, pose unique challenges for surgeons due to their varying growth patterns. Placing a synthetic mesh in growing patients is a concern, particularly in relation to chronic pain. Traditionally, the hernia literature has defined adults as individuals aged 18 years and above. Considering that growth can continue until age 19, this review proposes a revised definition of adolescence for patients with groin hernias encompassing ages 10 to 19. Symptomatic groin hernias in adolescents should be repaired with an open non-mesh technique because of acceptable recurrence rates and the desire to avoid introducing synthetic foreign materials into young patients with ongoing growth potential. Watchful waiting is suggested for asymptomatic groin hernias, postponing repair until the adolescent has become a fully grown adult and symptoms from the hernia develop. Most groin hernias in adolescents are lateral hernias, but before pursuing a watchful waiting strategy in females, an ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging scan is suggested to rule out the presence of a femoral hernia that may need repair.