Our Summary

This study investigates the learning curve for a single-incision method of repairing an inguinal hernia, a condition where tissue, usually part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. The method, known as SILTEP, is becoming more popular due to its less invasive nature and better cosmetic results.

The research involved reviewing the medical records of 180 patients who underwent this procedure between 2012 and 2017. The focus was on how long the operation took and whether there were any surgical failures, defined as needing to add more incisions, convert to open surgery, serious post-surgery complications or recurrence of the hernia.

The study found that the time it took to perform the operation and the rate of surgical failure both improved as the surgeon gained more experience with the procedure. By the time the surgeon had performed around 60 procedures, the operation time had reduced and the surgical failure rate was less than 10%. After about 85 procedures, the operation time stabilized at around 35 minutes.

In simple terms, this study suggests that a surgeon needs to perform about 60 of these specific hernia repair procedures to become proficient, with further improvements seen after about 85 procedures.

FAQs

  1. What is the single-incision method of repairing an inguinal hernia?
  2. How many procedures does a surgeon need to perform to become proficient in the SILTEP method?
  3. What were the main findings of the study on the learning curve for the SILTEP method of hernia repair?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, if you are considering hernia repair surgery, it may be beneficial to ask your surgeon about their experience with the specific technique being used. A more experienced surgeon may have better outcomes and a lower risk of complications. Additionally, following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding heavy lifting and taking prescribed medications, can help ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hernia repair include those experiencing symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the affected area, a visible bulge or swelling, or difficulty with physical activities. Additionally, patients with a hernia that is causing complications such as incarceration (when the hernia cannot be pushed back in) or strangulation (when blood flow to the hernia is blocked) may also be recommended for surgery. Ultimately, the decision to undergo hernia repair surgery will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms, overall health, and the recommendation of their healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and bulging in the affected area
  • Consultation with a healthcare provider to diagnose the hernia and discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative preparation including fasting, medication adjustments, and anesthesia discussions

After hernia repair:

  • Recovery period in the hospital or outpatient facility, which may include pain management, monitoring for complications, and post-operative instructions
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Gradual return to normal activities and exercise as recommended by the healthcare provider
  • Long-term follow-up to ensure the hernia does not recur and to address any lingering symptoms or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How experienced are you in performing SILTEP hernia repairs?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  3. How long does the procedure typically take?
  4. What is the success rate of this procedure in terms of preventing hernia recurrence?
  5. Will I need any additional incisions or conversions to open surgery during the procedure?
  6. What is the recovery process like after SILTEP hernia repair?
  7. How soon can I return to normal activities after the procedure?
  8. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow?
  9. What are the potential long-term outcomes or complications I should be aware of?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options for my hernia condition?

Reference

Authors: Park YY, Lee K, Oh ST, Lee J. Journal: Hernia. 2022 Jun;26(3):959-966. doi: 10.1007/s10029-021-02431-7. Epub 2021 Jun 7. PMID: 34097186