Prospective randomized trial comparing laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and laparoscopic totally extra peritoneal (TEP) approach for bilateral inguinal hernias.

INTRODUCTION: Bilateral inguinal hernias form a part of the complex spectrum of weakness in the region of the myopectineal orifice. Laparoscopic surgery is one of the standard approaches for bilateral hernias. We describe the results of a randomized trial that was undertaken to compare and evaluate TAPP and TEP repair for bilateral inguinal hernias. METHODS: Sixty patients were randomized into two groups. Group I (TAPP) and Group II (TEP) were compared in terms of procedure related variables, conversion, post-operative recovery and complications. Analysis was done using SPSS software version 17. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients were assessed for fitness to include in the study. Seventeen patients had to be excluded due to either not meeting the inclusion criteria's or for not giving consent. The median age (52 yrs) was comparable in both groups. In Group II (TEP) mean operating time was 120.89 ± 29.28 min compared to 108.16 ± 16.10 min in Group I (TAPP). Post-operative pain scores were less in Group I(TAPP) at all levels of recording (8 h-48 h), though most patients required injectable analgesic for 32 h in both groups (p-value 0.029). Subcutaneous emphysema was more commonly noted in the Group II (TEP) (p-value 0.038). In Group I (TAPP) mean hospital stay was 52.0 ± 14.21 h while in Group II (TEP) it was 52.29 ± 9.36 h (p-value 0.427). Mean time for return to work was 11.8 ± 2.35 days in Group I (TAPP) and 12.41 ± 2.22 days in Group II (TEP) (p-value 0.339). CONCLUSION: The procedures though different in approach were quite similar in outcome. Mean operating time was increased in the TEP repairs along with immediate post-operative pain scores. The pattern of some complications like subcutaneous emphysema was significantly more in the TEP group while minor vascular injury though not significant was different in both groups. The indirect cost incurred from consumables did not vary other than need for more tacks in the TAPP group.