Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair with Mesh: A Case Review

Introduction. Hernias occur when intra-abdominal contents protrude through a fascial defect in the abdominal wall. Inguinal hernias make up the majority of abdominal hernias in both men and women. The definitive treatment for all hernias is surgery. Case presentation. An adult male presented with heaviness and discomfort in his right groin region that began six months ago. Discomfort was worse at night. Patient’s job required standing up for most of the day. No obvious bulge was seen during physical exam, though a bulge was palpable in the inguinal canal during the testicular exam. Patient was overweight with a history of an appendectomy. Deviation from Expected. An elective laparoscopic TAPP (transabdominal preperitoneal approach) was used for repair. After repairing the right indirect, inguinal hernia, the surgeon discovered a second indirect, inguinal hernia on the left side and repaired that hernia as well. There were no complications. Discussion. Open and laparoscopic repairs are the most popular surgical interventions for indirect, inguinal hernias. Both approaches are acceptable and carry their own advantages and disadvantages. The technique utilized will depend on the patient’s clinical presentation and the surgeon’s preference. Conclusion. Surgical repair of inguinal hernias is, and will continue to be, one of the most common operations worldwide. Ever-evolving advancements in diagnostic imaging, laboratory modalities and surgical techniques have allowed clinicians to rapidly assess and rule out any emergent complications and treat indirect inguinal hernias with a heightened level of care. Grants. This study was not funded by a grant