Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that compares two methods of fixing groin hernias with laparoscopic surgery. One method uses a mesh that is stapled or tacked into place, while the other does not use any fixation. After comparing 13 different trials involving a total of 1731 patients, the researchers found that using mesh fixation tends to cause more post-operation pain and also takes longer to perform. However, in terms of how long patients stay in the hospital, how quickly they return to normal activities, the rate of complications, the formation of seromas (pockets of fluid that can develop after surgery), and the likelihood of the hernia recurring, there was no significant difference between the two methods. The researchers concluded that not using mesh fixation could potentially reduce post-operation pain and the length of the procedure. They encourage future studies to look into which method is more cost-effective.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods of laparoscopic hernia repair compared in this study?
  2. Does using mesh fixation in laparoscopic hernia repair cause more post-operation pain?
  3. What did the researchers conclude about the use of mesh fixation in laparoscopic hernia repair?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic hernia repair is to discuss with their surgeon the option of not using mesh fixation during the procedure. This may potentially reduce post-operative pain and shorten the length of the surgery. It is important for patients to have a thorough discussion with their surgeon about the risks and benefits of each method before making a decision.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic hernia repair include those with inguinal hernias, umbilical hernias, femoral hernias, and incisional hernias. The laparoscopic approach is often preferred for patients who are young, active, have a recurrent hernia, have bilateral hernias, or have a hernia that is at risk of incarceration or strangulation. Additionally, patients with a high risk of complications from traditional open hernia repair, such as those with obesity, chronic lung disease, or a history of hernia recurrence, may also be recommended for laparoscopic hernia repair. Ultimately, the decision to undergo laparoscopic hernia repair is made on a case-by-case basis by the patient’s healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic hernia repair:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the groin area
  • Patient may undergo physical examination and imaging tests to diagnose the hernia
  • Patient may be advised to stop taking certain medications or to follow a specific diet before the surgery
  • Patient may meet with the surgeon to discuss the procedure and ask any questions they may have

After laparoscopic hernia repair:

  • Patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the incision sites
  • Patient may be given pain medication and instructions on how to care for the incision sites
  • Patient may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a certain period of time
  • Patient may have a follow-up appointment with the surgeon to check on their recovery progress
  • Patient may gradually return to normal activities as they heal

Overall, laparoscopic hernia repair is a minimally invasive procedure that typically allows for quicker recovery and less post-operative pain compared to traditional open hernia repair methods.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic hernia repair?
  2. How long is the recovery process after laparoscopic hernia repair?
  3. Will I need to take any special precautions or follow a specific diet after the surgery?
  4. What are the chances of the hernia recurring after laparoscopic repair?
  5. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic hernia repair?
  6. What are the differences between using mesh fixation and not using fixation in laparoscopic hernia repair?
  7. How long does the surgery typically take to perform?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. How soon after the surgery can I return to normal activities and work?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative exercises or physical therapy that I should do to aid in recovery?

Reference

Authors: Eltair M, Hajibandeh S, Hajibandeh S, Balakrishnan S, Alyamani A, Radoi D, Goh YL, Hanif M, Kumar Y, Mobarak D. Journal: Int J Surg. 2019 Nov;71:190-199. doi: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2019.10.004. Epub 2019 Oct 10. PMID: 31606426