The Anterior Preperitoneal Approach for Repair of Complex Inguinal Hernias

Abstract

Purpose: The gold standard for the repair of inguinal hernias is the Lichtenstein repair. However, complex inguinal hernias such as recurrent hernias, giant hernias, femoral hernias or combined hernias are present, it is necessary to choose different approaches. In this study, we aimed to present how we repair complex hernias using our open anterior preperitoneal technique. Material and Methods: The present study was carried out between the period from January 2001 through August 2011. The patients with recurrent inguinal hernia, giant inguino-scrotal, femoral or combined hernias were included. The demographics, hernia types, operation time, postoperative early and long term follow-up outcomes were recorded. Results: A total of 40 patients (Male:32, Female:8) underwent hernia repair with our technique during the study period. The mean age was (+/-SD) 44+/-6.8 years. Four patients had giant direct hernia,12 patients had giant inguino-scrotal hernia, 14 patients had recurrent and 10 patients had femoral hernia. 4 patients were underwent emergent surgery due to incarceration. The mean operation time was (+/-SD) 61+/-11 min. There was no recurrence with the mean follow-up time of 7+/-2.2 years. Cnclusion: Our surgical technique allows to repair all types of inguinal hernia with one piece of prolene mesh by covering all potential defects. [Cukurova Med J 2014; 39(4.000): 822-828