Our Summary

This study looked at the benefits of two different types of surgeries to repair inguinal hernias (a type of hernia in the groin area) in babies: laparoscopic repair (LR) and open hernia repair (OR). The researchers looked back at the medical records of 465 infants who had these surgeries between 2006 and 2015.

They found that in the group who had OR, 16.1% had surgery on both sides of the groin, and 13.6% developed a hernia on the opposite side after surgery. In the LR group, 75.8% had surgery on both sides, but only 1.6% developed a hernia on the opposite side after surgery.

The time it took to perform the surgeries was about the same for both types if the hernia was only on one side. However, for hernias on both sides, the LR surgery took less time.

There was no big difference between the two types of surgeries in terms of complications like the hernia coming back or wound infection. However, swelling of the scrotum after surgery was more common with OR.

The study suggests that LR might be a better choice for babies with inguinal hernias because it has a lower chance of the hernia developing on the opposite side after surgery, takes less time for bilateral hernias, and has fewer post-surgery complications.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between laparoscopic repair (LR) and open hernia repair (OR) in treating inguinal hernia in infants?
  2. What are the advantages of laparoscopic repair (LR) over open hernia repair (OR) in infants with inguinal hernia?
  3. What is the rate of postoperative complications between laparoscopic repair (LR) and open hernia repair (OR) in infants with inguinal hernia?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hernia repair is to consider laparoscopic repair as it can result in a lower incidence of metachronous hernia, shorter operation times, and better postoperative outcomes compared to open hernia repair. It may be a more effective and efficient option for infants with inguinal hernia.

Suitable For

Infants with inguinal hernias are typically recommended hernia repair, especially those who are at risk for developing metachronous contralateral inguinal hernia. Additionally, infants who may benefit from shorter operation times, lower risk of postoperative complications such as scrotal swelling, and better overall postoperative course may also be recommended for laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia.

Timeline

  • Before hernia repair:
  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as groin pain, swelling, and discomfort.
  2. Patient consults with a healthcare provider who diagnoses the hernia through physical examination and possibly imaging tests.
  3. Treatment options are discussed, including the choice between laparoscopic repair or open hernia repair.
  4. Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and preparations for the surgery.
  • After hernia repair:
  1. Patient undergoes the chosen method of hernia repair, either laparoscopic or open surgery.
  2. Postoperatively, patient may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort at the surgical site.
  3. Patient is monitored for any complications such as recurrence, wound infection, or scrotal swelling.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to check on the healing process and overall recovery.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences relief from the symptoms of the hernia.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the benefits of laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia compared to open hernia repair in infants?
  2. What is the success rate of laparoscopic repair in infants compared to open repair?
  3. Are there any specific risks or complications associated with laparoscopic repair in infants?
  4. How long is the recovery time expected to be for laparoscopic repair compared to open repair?
  5. Will my child need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or considerations to keep in mind with laparoscopic repair in infants?
  7. How experienced is the surgical team in performing laparoscopic repair for inguinal hernias in infants?
  8. Will my child need any special follow-up care or monitoring after the surgery?
  9. Are there any specific restrictions or limitations on activities that my child will need to follow after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options or considerations for my child’s inguinal hernia repair?

Reference

Authors: Ho IG, Ihn K, Koo EJ, Chang EY, Oh JT. Journal: J Pediatr Surg. 2018 Oct;53(10):2008-2012. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2018.01.022. Epub 2018 Feb 7. PMID: 29477445