NERVE INJURY ASSOCIATED WITH LAPAROSCOPIC INGUINAL HERNIORRHAPHY

Background. As laparoscopic herniorrhaphy becomes more popular, it is important to realize the potential for injury to surrounding neural st ructures, with attendant severe disability. Methods. Herein are discus sed two patients with disabling neuralgia after laparoscopic herniorrh aphy. Results. Both patients were treated with transabdominal removal of their prosthetic materials and anchoring staples, with dramatic sym ptomatic improvement. Conclusions. The surgeon should be aware of the anatomic considerations accompanying laparoscopic herniorrhaphy. In re gard to nerve injury, laparoscopic herniorrhaphy may pose certain disa dvantages over traditional hernia repairs. It may diminish the ability to appreciate the course of nerves in the inguinal region and their r elationship to the spermatic cord, and injury to nerves may be difficu lt to recognize and treat.