A Study of Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal Repair in Inguinal Hernia

Background: Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) repair is a minimally invasive technique for managing inguinal hernias, offering benefits like reduced postoperative pain, quicker recovery, and lower recurrence rates.

Aims & Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile, safety, and feasibility of TAPP repair in patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernias, focusing on surgical outcomes and recovery metrics.

Study Design: This prospective interventional study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery at a tertiary care center. Institutional ethics committee approval was secured before the study commenced. Fifty patients with reducible, non-obstructed, and non-strangulated inguinal hernias participated after providing informed consent. Demoic data, clinical findings, and surgical outcomes were documented using a structured case report form, with preoperative investigations ensuring surgical suitability.

Operative Procedure: TAPP repair was performed under general anesthesia, involving pneumoperitoneum creation and trocar insertion. Key steps included meticulous dissection of the preperitoneal space, reduction of the hernia sac, placement of Prolene mesh over the defect, and closure of the peritoneal flap.

Results: Among the 50 cases, the most common age group was 41-50 years (30%), with a mean age of 43 ± 15 years, and a male-to-female ratio of 49:1. Right-sided hernias (44%) were primarily indirect (76%). Mean operative times were 70 ± 10 minutes for unilateral and 110 ± 10 minutes for bilateral repairs. Postoperative pain scores decreased significantly, with minor complications noted: scrotal emphysema (2%) and port site infection (2%).

Conclusion: The study offers insights into the effectiveness and safety of TAPP repair for inguinal hernias. By analyzing demoics and surgical outcomes, we support TAPP repair as a preferred method in modern surgical practice.