Laparoscopic total extra-peritoneal inguinal hernia repairs by a surgeon experienced at laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Objective: To measure standards achieved at total extra peritoneal hernia repair by a surgeon experienced in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and to compare the results with standards identified by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence. Methods: The outcomes of the first 100 consecutive total extra-peritoneal hernia repair cases by the surgeon were retrieved retrospectively. The surgeries were conducted between January 2006 and July 2007. Data was collected 14 to 17 months post-surgery. Results: All patients were men with a median age of 58 years, ranging from 20 to 91 years. The maximum operating time was 75 minutes, while the minimum was 30 minutes. The conversion rate was 3% (n=3) and the recurrence rate 4% (n=4). Complications experienced included a chronic groin pain and one umbilical port-site haematoma. Conclusion: Though related to a single-surgeon experience, the study highlighted reduced preceptorship due to previous laparoscopic skills that were transferable. Patients should have a choice to opt for either open or laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.