Laparoscopic repair for recurrent inguinal hernia after previous laparoscopic approach

Background and aim
Relaparoscopic repair of recurrent inguinal hernia carries a lot of challenges. The encountered complex surgical technique is assumed to have greater possibilities of surgical complications with consequent higher recurrence rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and reliability of laparoscopic approach for recurrent inguinal hernia after previous laparoscopic repair.
Patients and methods
Records of 33 patients with 34 recurrent inguinal hernias after previous laparoscopic management have been retrospectively revised. The performed procedure for second repair was transabdominal preperitoneal repair for all the cases. Data of perioperative complications, immediate postoperative course, and hernia recurrence were collected and analyzed.
Results
No intraoperative complications were encountered. Postoperative pain was recorded as moderate. The mean follow-up period ranged from 14 to 40 months with a mean of 24.82±6.9. During the follow-up period, three (9%) cases developed groin seroma and one (3%) case had transient thigh numbness. Of the patients, 85% returned to normal daily activities within 14 days postoperatively. Two patients had rerecurrence of the hernia and they were managed by Lichtenstein repair.
Conclusion
Relaparoscopic repair of recurrent inguinal hernia is safe and applicable. The procedure should be performed with experienced hands.