Laparoscopic repair of recurrent inguinal hernias after endoscopic herniorrhaphy

Background: Although the recurrence rate for endoscopic herniorraphy is low (0-3%), it is still debatable whether these recurrences should be correcte d laparoscopically or by the conventional method. The aim of this study was to investigate whether these recurrences can be repaired by means of the l aparoscopic approach with acceptable complication and recurrence rates. Methods: From October 1992 to December 1997, 34 patients with recurrent ing uinal hernias at physical examination underwent surgery at our institutions . All the recurrences occurred following endoscopic inguinal hernia repair with mesh prostheses. The recurrences were repaired endoscopically using a transabdominal approach. Depending on the size of the defect, a new polypro pylene mesh was used. Results: Mean surgery time was 69 min. There were no conversions to the ant erior approach. After a mean follow-up of 35 months, no recurrences had bee n diagnosed. Conclusion: The transabdominal preperitoneal approach is a reliable techniq ue for recurrent inguinal hernia repair after previous endoscopic herniorrh aphy.