Fewer urological complications after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair without indwelling catheter.

INTRODUCTION

The number of procedures involving transabdominal preperitoneal laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia (TAPP) has increased in Denmark. Optimized perioperative regimens are needed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective, single-institution study included consecutive patients during an eight-year period from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2007 (period I) and from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2009 (period II). In period II, perioperative indwelling catheter (Foley catheter) was not used routinely. Furthermore, the surgical technique was adjusted, a small team of dedicated TAPP surgeons was established, and two of the surgeons attended prearranged surgical training programmes. Additionally, period II patients were enrolled into structured patient protocols. The primary endpoint was complications within the first 30 days after surgery, and we also registered the rate of reoperation due to recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 684 patients underwent TAPP surgery for 946 inguinal hernias. From period I to II, the number of TAPP surgeons was reduced to a third and two surgeons received TAPP training. During period I, minor urological complications were observed in 5% (confidence interval (CI) 3.1-6.9%) compared with 1% in period II (0.0-2.5%). The overall morbidity rate was 13%. Serious complications were observed in 3% (CI 3.1-6.9%) of the cases in period I and in 2% (0.0-2.5%) of the cases in period II. For the entire eight-year study period, the cumulative rate of re-operation due to recurrence was 2%.

CONCLUSION

TAPP without routine use of an indwelling catheter may reduce the risk of urological complications.