ABSTRACT
Objective To analyze reasons of postoperat iv e relapse of inguinal hernia and to explore the clinical significance of laparos copic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair for recurrent hernia. Methods We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of 24 cases of recurr ent inguinal hernia treated by laparoscopic TAPP repair from June 1998 to Octobe r 2003 in this hospital. There were 11 cases of direct hernia and 13 cases of in direct hernia. Results Operations were completed successfully in all the 24 cases without conversions to open surgery. The operation time was 47~128 min (mean, 69 min), and the postoperative hospital stay, 2~5 days (mean, 3 days). Urinary retention happened in 6 cases after the operation, in which a F oley urethral catheter was indwelled for 1~3 days. There were no complications s uch as wound infection, scrotal hematoma or pneumatosis. Follow-up checkups were made for 2~66 months (mean, 27 months) in all the 24 cases. No recurrence was o bserved. Conclusions Laparoscopic TAPP repair for recurrent in guinal hernia has advantages of minimal invasion and few complications, being a safe and feasible option for treating recurrent inguinal hernia.