Simultaneous mesh repair of bilateral groin hernia: A comparison of laparoscopic and open techniques

Abstract

The optimal management of bilateral groin hernia remains contentious. We report a prospective study of all patients undergoing simultaneous mesh repair of bilateral groin hernia during a 1 year period at a single institution. Cases managed by open surgery were compared with those undergoing laparoscopic repair; duration of hospital stay and complication rate were the main end-points. 51 patients were studied; 18 had open surgery and 33 had a laparoscopic procedure. The patients in the laparoscopic group had a shorter hospital stay (median saving of 2.5 nights). Postoperative complications (predominantly haematoma, infection and urinary retention) were more common in the open surgery group (p < 0.01). There were no recurrences over the study period. In summary, laparoscopic repair was associated with a shorter hospital stay and lower postoperative complication rate when compared with conventional open surgery. We would commend this procedure as the operation of choice for the management of bilateral groin hernia.