What are the benefits and drawbacks of laparoscopic versus open inguinal hernia repair?
- Attempts at laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair immediately followed the success of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Initial studies demonstrating increased recurrence rates dampened this enthusiasm.
- The learning curve for surgeons to become proficient at laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is significant.
- More recent studies have demonstrated equivalent recurrence rates. Furthermore, studies now suggest that the increased operative cost of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is offset by the decreased societal cost resulting from less pain, quicker recovery, and more rapid return to regular work duties.
- The laparoscopic approach also allows the surgeon to address the contralateral side simultaneously.
- Although the open repair remains an excellent option for de novo unilateral hernias, laparoscopic repair is certainly beneficial for recurrent or bilateral hernias.
