Comparative postoperative outcomes between open and minimally invasive approaches in patients undergoing inguinal hernia surgery at a teaching hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Inguinal hernia, a global health challenge, significantly affects the population. This comparative study between the Lichtenstein and TAPP laparoscopy techniques at the Sonora State General Hospital sought to analyze postoperative results. Objective: Compare postsurgical results between patients intervened by Lichtenstein technique hernioplasty and TAPP handling. Materials and Methods: Observational and transversal, 78 patients (49 Lichtenstein, 29 TAPP). Data recollected from January 2020 to December 2022. Statistical analysis with U-Mann Whitney and Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests. Results: No significant difference in surgical time. Increased pain in Lichtenstein (p=0,0344). Average in-patient stay of 1,7 days. 3,8% recurrence, more in Lichtenstein (4,1% vs. 3,4%). No significant difference between complications, although its distribution was associated with the used technique (p=0,025). Conclusion: Both techniques are effective, although the choice could affect the complication profile and specific postoperative pain. These results offer relevant information for decision-taking regarding inguinal hernia repair, highlighting the importance of considering the hernia type when choosing a surgical technique.