Effect of Drains on Complications in Laparoscopic Repair of Unilateral Inguinal Hernia.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of preperitoneal closed suction drainage in reducing postoperative complications in total extraperitoneal (TEP) repair inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

Between May 2021 and February 2023, 125 patients aged 18-80 years who were admitted to our hospital with primary unilateral (PM2, PM3 and PL2, PL3) inguinal hernia were included in preperitoneal drainage (group 1, n = 45) and no drainage groups (group 2, n = 80). Hematoma and seroma size, early postoperative bleeding, postoperative hospital stay, pain score and recurrence were recorded on the 6th day and 3rd month after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 114 of the patients were male and 11 were female. Hematoma and seroma were detected in 5 patients in Group I and 15 patients in Group II on the 6th day after surgery ( < .024). Two patients in Group I were re-explored on the first postoperative day due to the amount of drain and hemodynamic instability. There was no difference between the groups in terms of seromas seen in the third postoperative month. There was no difference between the groups in terms of VAS scores and hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

Especially for young surgeons who are new to surgical procedures, the placement of a drain that is removed after 24 hours will both reduce the development of hematoma and seroma and contribute to early diagnosis and timely intervention in case of serious bleeding.