Preperitoneal repair for recurrent inguinal hernia: laparoscopic and open approach.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the outcome of preperitoneal repair using laparoscopic (TEP) and open (OPM) approach in recurrent inguinal hernia. METHODS: We performed a prospective controlled nonrandomized clinical study in 188 patients with 207 recurrent inguinal hernias over a period of 5 years. TEP repair was employed for 86 repairs, and OPM was used in 121 procedures. The main outcome measurements were: recurrence rate, operating time, hospital stay, and postoperative complications. RESULTS: There were three recurrences (1.7%). Two in the OPM group (1.8%) and one (1.3%) in the TEP group [ P=NS (not significant)]. The TEP procedure was faster than OPM for unilateral repair (40.8 vs 46.3 min) (P<0.001). Postoperative complications were more frequent in the OPM group (23.9%) than the TEP group (13.9%) ( P=NS). Hospital stay was significantly shorter in the TEP group (1.2 vs 3.9 days) (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Preperitoneal approach (open or laparoscopic) seems to be a good option in recurrent inguinal hernia when these procedures are done by experienced surgeons.