Endoscopic total extraperitoneal repair of primary and recurrent inguinal hernias

Background: In most reports different techniques have been described for co mbinations of primary and recurrent hernias. The aim of this study was to i nvestigate and compare the results of endoscopic total extraperitoneal repa ir (TEP) of primary and recurrent inguinal hernias. Methods: From January 1993 to July 1995, 221 patients with an unilateral in guinal hernia (186 primary and 35 recurrent) underwent TEP repair. Follow-u p, including physical examination, was performed at regular 3-month interva ls. Results: The mean operation time was 37.6 min. Minor perioperative complica tions occurred in 23 cases. Conversion was required for 16 patients (7.2%). Postoperative complications were reported for 11.7% of the patients. Hospi tal stay was short. Mean follow-up was 40.4 months. The recurrence rate was 3.2% for primary hernias and 20% for recurrent hernias. Conclusions: This study confirms the preliminary success of TEP for primary inguinal hernia repair, as previously reported. The high recurrence rate a fter endoscopic repair of recurrent hernias needs to be studied further.