A safe laparoscopic technique for the repair of inguinal hernias in boys

Abstract

Laparoscopic repair of childhood inguinal hernias has the advantages of being able to identify hernias at the contralateral side and of allowing subsequent repair at the same operation. 1 Schier F. Montupet P. Esposito C. Laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy in children a three-center experience with 933 repairs. J Pediatr Surg. 2002; 37 : 395-397 Abstract Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (205) Google Scholar Its cosmesis is superb. 2 Schier F. Laparoscopic surgery of inguinal hernias in children—initial experience. J Pediatr Surg. 2000; : 1331-1335 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (78) Google Scholar But in boys, the vas, testicular vessels, and inferior epigastric vessels are in close proximity to the internal inguinal openings ( Fig. 1). This has limited the use of laparoscopic repair to girls at the initial development. 3 Schier F. Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy in girls. J Pediatr Surg. 1998; 33 : 1495-1497 Abstract Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (99) Google Scholar In order to popularize laparoscopic repair for boys also, a safe technique for the purpose has to be designed. In this article, we describe a safe and easily reproducible technique that is applicable for hernias in boys. Figure 1 The vas (VAS) and testicular vessels (TV) run into the internal inguinal opening (IO) immediately under the peritoneum. View Large Image Figure Viewer