Single-incision laparoscopic closure of inguinal hernia in female children: a simplified technique

Abstract

Aim: Single-incision laparoscopic hernia repair (SILHR) is a popular technique, especially in female children, as it reduces the number of incisions while achieving a better cosmetic outcome. However, intracorporeal suturing and knotting remains a major obstacle during SILHR and it requires a relatively long learning curve. Conversely, extracorporeal suturing and knotting is straightforward, though it has several drawbacks. The purpose of this report is to describe a simple technique for SILHR in female children.

Methods: Between May 2014 and December 2016, 100 girls with 120 hernias of the Canal of Nuck (34 with right-side inguinal hernia, 46 with left-side hernia, and 20 with bilateral hernia) underwent SILHR. The opened internal inguinal ring was closed using a complete purse string suture fashioned by epidural needle with intracorporeal knot tying. The main outcomes were feasibility, operative time, complications and cosmetic outcome.

Results: The mean age was 2.0 ± 2.2 years, and the mean operative time was 8.0 ± 2.2 min for unilateral hernia repair and 16.0 ± 4.3 min for bilateral cases. All cases were completed laparoscopically without intraoperative complications. During follow-up, there were no recurrences and umbilical scars were almost invisible.

Conclusion: This simplified technique is feasible, quick, achieves better cosmetic results in female children, and avoids the drawbacks of extracorporeal knotting.

Keywords

Single incision / intracorporeal knotting / laparoscopic hernia repair / simplified technique / female hernia

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