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MTP1.05 Sharper, Smaller, Safer: The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery in Inguinal Hernia Repair

E. Lim, A. Twomey

British Journal of Surgery, 2025

20 participants

Abstract

Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure worldwide. The development of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques, has represented a quantum leap to further improve patient outcomes through minimizing postoperative pain and hastening recovery. This study evaluates the efficacy, safety, and novel evolutions in MIS approaches compared to traditional open surgery.

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses of 22 peer-reviewed studies, including randomized controlled trials and cohort studies with at least 20 patients per arm and follow-up of six months or more. Primary outcomes were postoperative pain and recurrence rates, while secondary outcomes included operative time, hospital stay, complications, and patient satisfaction. Data synthesis followed PRISMA guidelines with a random-effects model.

MIS techniques, such as Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) and Total Extraperitoneal (TEP) repairs, demonstrated shorter hospital stays (Mean Difference = -0.6 days) and less postoperative pain (Mean Difference = -1.6) compared to open surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery allows for finer dissection with precise mesh placement, thus potentially reducing recurrence rates (2.1% vs. 3.8%; RR = 0.56), although it is more expensive. Complication rates were similar across MIS methods but lower at high volume centers. Patient satisfaction were consistently higher with MIS.

MIS shows promising results mainly in reducing recovery…

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