Our Summary

This study aimed to create an artificial intelligence (AI) system that can automatically recognize different stages of a specific type of hernia repair surgery called transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) inguinal hernia repair. This surgery can be complex and take time to learn, so an AI tool could help monitor the process, assess how well surgeons are learning it, and improve efficiency.

The study involved 119 patients who underwent the TAPP procedure. Their surgeries were filmed and split into seven different stages. This footage was then used to train the AI to recognize each stage of the operation.

The results showed that the AI was able to identify the different stages of the surgery with a high degree of accuracy (around 88.81% for single side hernia repairs and 85.82% for repairs on both sides). The AI was also able to determine that experienced surgeons completed certain stages of the surgery faster than those still in training.

In conclusion, the AI system could be a useful tool for monitoring surgery progress, improving efficiency in the operating room, evaluating surgical skills, and contributing to surgical education. Furthermore, the durations of specific stages of the surgery, as identified by the AI, could be linked to a surgeon’s learning progress.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the study on using AI in transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) inguinal hernia repair surgeries?
  2. How accurate was the AI in recognizing different stages of the TAPP inguinal hernia repair surgery?
  3. How can the AI system contribute to surgical education and efficiency in the operating room?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about laparoscopic hernia repair is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including avoiding lifting heavy objects, taking prescribed pain medication, and keeping the incision site clean and dry to prevent infection. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic hernia repair include those with inguinal hernias, umbilical hernias, incisional hernias, and femoral hernias. Laparoscopic hernia repair is often preferred for patients who are younger, active, and have smaller hernias, as it is associated with less postoperative pain, quicker recovery times, and lower rates of recurrence compared to open hernia repair. Additionally, patients with bilateral hernias or recurrent hernias may also be good candidates for laparoscopic hernia repair. Ultimately, the decision to undergo laparoscopic hernia repair should be made in consultation with a surgeon who can assess the individual patient’s medical history, hernia characteristics, and overall health status.

Timeline

Before the laparoscopic hernia repair surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with a surgeon to discuss the procedure and any potential risks or complications. They may also undergo preoperative testing such as blood work or imaging studies.

During the surgery, the patient is placed under anesthesia, and small incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera attached, is inserted through one of the incisions to allow the surgeon to see inside the abdomen. The hernia is then repaired using mesh to reinforce the weakened area of the abdominal wall.

After the surgery, the patient is monitored in a recovery room before being discharged home the same day in most cases. They may experience some pain, swelling, or bruising at the incision sites, but these symptoms typically improve over time. The patient will be instructed on how to care for the incisions and when to follow up with their surgeon for a postoperative appointment.

Overall, laparoscopic hernia repair surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that offers a quicker recovery time and less postoperative pain compared to traditional open hernia repair surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic hernia repair include:

  1. What are the benefits of laparoscopic hernia repair compared to traditional open surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic hernia repair?
  3. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic hernia repair procedures?
  4. What can I expect during the recovery process after laparoscopic hernia repair?
  5. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  6. How long will it take for me to fully recover and return to my normal activities?
  7. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or lifting after the surgery?
  8. What are the chances of the hernia recurring after laparoscopic repair?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for my hernia?
  10. How can I best prepare for the surgery and optimize my chances for a successful outcome?

Reference

Authors: Takeuchi M, Collins T, Ndagijimana A, Kawakubo H, Kitagawa Y, Marescaux J, Mutter D, Perretta S, Hostettler A, Dallemagne B. Journal: Hernia. 2022 Dec;26(6):1669-1678. doi: 10.1007/s10029-022-02621-x. Epub 2022 May 10. PMID: 35536371