Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that compared two types of surgery for repairing inguinal hernias: single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and multi-incision laparoscopic surgery (MILS). The study analyzed 15 other studies involving 1651 patients who had undergone one of these two types of surgery.

The results showed that patients who had SILS recovered slightly faster than those who had MILS. However, other factors like how long patients stayed in the hospital, how long the surgery took, post-surgery pain levels, and rates of hernia recurrence and complications after the surgery were similar for both types of surgery.

The study concludes that both SILS and MILS are safe and feasible options for inguinal hernia repair. The choice between the two should depend on what resources and expertise are available.

FAQs

  1. What are the two types of surgery for repairing inguinal hernias discussed in the study?
  2. Are there any significant differences in recovery and complication rates between SILS and MILS?
  3. How should the choice between SILS and MILS be determined according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic hernia repair is to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a period of time as recommended by the surgeon. This will help ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Additionally, staying in touch with the surgeon for follow-up appointments and addressing any concerns or symptoms promptly is important for a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic hernia repair include those with inguinal hernias that are uncomplicated and not too large. Additionally, patients who are relatively healthy and able to tolerate surgery are good candidates for laparoscopic hernia repair. Patients with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant may not be suitable candidates for this type of surgery. Ultimately, the decision on whether a patient is a good candidate for laparoscopic hernia repair should be made by a healthcare provider after a thorough evaluation of the patient’s individual circumstances.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic hernia repair:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of a hernia such as a bulge or swelling in the abdomen or groin area
  • Patient consults with a doctor who diagnoses the hernia and recommends surgery
  • Pre-operative tests and evaluations are done to assess the patient’s overall health and fitness for surgery

After laparoscopic hernia repair:

  • Patient undergoes the laparoscopic hernia repair surgery, which involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a thin, lighted tube with a camera to repair the hernia
  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room immediately after surgery
  • Patient may experience some pain, discomfort, and swelling in the surgical area, which can be managed with pain medications
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital the same day or the following day
  • Patient is advised to rest and gradually resume normal activities over the following days and weeks
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and ensure the hernia has been successfully repaired

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic hernia repair surgery?
  2. How long will the surgery take and how long will I need to stay in the hospital?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and when can I return to normal activities?
  4. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic hernia repair surgery?
  5. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for my specific type of hernia?
  6. Will I need any special post-operative care or follow-up appointments?
  7. Are there any specific restrictions or precautions I should take after the surgery?
  8. How will you monitor for any potential complications after the surgery?
  9. What should I do if I experience any unusual symptoms or pain after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options for my hernia that I should consider?

Reference

Authors: Sajid MS, Khawaja AH, Sayegh M, Baig MK. Journal: Int J Surg. 2016 May;29:25-35. doi: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2016.02.088. Epub 2016 Mar 11. PMID: 26975426