Totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia repair after an original TEPIs it safe, and is it even possible?

Abstract

Background: There are only scant published reports of totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair of recurrence after a primary TEP procedure. Furthermore, at least two authors have made the statement that such an operation is virtually impossible.

Methods: We have been performing TEP repair of recurrence after TEP since we 1996, and here we present a retrospective review of our experience with the procedure. We employ a method not varying greatly from the standard TEP done for primary hernia.

Results: All cases were started laparoscopically, and only one of 20 had to be converted to open. Of these cases, 12 were for same-side recurrence and eight for a contralateral new hernia. With a follow-up of 28-74 months, there have been no fatalities, no complications, and no re-recurrence.

Conclusion: We have found that TEP repair of recurrent inguinal hernia after a primary TEP repair is entirely feasible technically as well as entirely safe.