Comparative study of laparoscopic TEP over Stoppa’s and Lichtenstein technique for the management of bilatera

Background: This study was aimed to evaluate the superiority of Laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal patch (TEP) repair over open stoppa’s and Lichenstein tension free repair for bilateral inguinal hernia.
Material and Methods: Total 80 patients of bilateral inguinal hernia was taken in present study. They were divided in three groups by closed envelope method. Total 27 patients in Laparoscopic TEP group, 28 in open Stoppa’s group & 25 in open Lichenstine group. Duration of surgery, Post-operative pain, hospital stay, intra & post operative complications and recurrence were recorded.
Results: The duration of surgery was the least in the Laparoscopic TEP group (40 min) as compared to Open Stoppa’s repair (42min) & open Lichtenstein group (50min). Minimal complications were noted in Laparoscopic TEP group (one incidence of balloon rupture) as compared to the stoppa’s & open inguinal hernioplasty (post operative seroma, scrotal edema, urinary retention & wound infection). Major intra-operative complications were not seen in either of the 3 groups. Recurrence was not seen with the open Lichtenstein approach, which was seen in 1 patient of the laparoscopic repair group & 2 of the stoppas repair group; both of which were managed by the open Lichtenstein. Post operative pain as measured with the VAS was the least with the laparoscopic group. Patients who underwent laparoscopic repair were discharged earlier than the other two groups.
Conclusion: Laparoscopic TEP is a safe & offer less postoperative pain in treatment of bilateral hernias as compared to open Stoppa’s & open Lichtenstein hernia repair, as well as Post-operative hospital stay is decreased, with earlier return to routine activities.