Effectivity of Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair (TAPP) in Daily Clinical Practice - Early and Long-term Results

Effectivity of Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair (TAPP) in Daily Clinical Practice - Early and Long-term Results

The effectiveness of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair still remains unclear. During a one year period a total of 1208 inguinal hernias in 952 patients were consecutively operated using the laparoscopic technique by a total of 11 general surgeons in daily clinical routine.

Laparoscopic hernia repair in the TAPP technique seems to have the potential to become the standard procedure in inguinal hernia repair in future.

Objective:

Hernia repair is the most frequent operation in general surgery worldwide, but about 25 years after the advent of minimal invasive surgical techniques the effectiveness of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair still remains unclear.

Methods:

All patients admitted to the hospital for surgery of an inguinal hernia during a one year period were prospectively documented and included in a follow-up study. The follow-up was performed at least 5 years after surgery and consisted of a clinical examination, ultrasound investigation and a questionnaire.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients fit for general anesthesia and presenting an inguinal hernia.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not fit for general anesthesia, young age (>21 years), not wanting a mesh.