Transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair - Feasibility study on anatomical specimens

Abstract

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia has replaced open surgery in recent years. For transabdominal preperitoneal mesh placement, 3 incisions have to be made to prepare the inguinal region, place the mesh and adapt the peritoneum with a suture. We describe the feasibility of a single incision transumbilical hernia repair. For this, we operated on 3 anatomical specimens (2 male, 1 female), which had been conserved using alcohol-glycerol fixation. A subumbilical 1.5 cm incision was performed, and three 5 mm trocars were inserted. The preparation and procedure steps conformed to conventional laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair (TAPP). In the right port we used a 5 mm 30 degree laparoscope, for preparation a grasper and scissors with optional flexure. Mean procedure time was 45.5 min (35-55 min, ±7 min). The left and right inguinal region was prepared. Adaptation in handling and ergonomics needs familiarization.