[Inguinal hernias in adults. Laparoscopic surgery versus the Shouldice method. Controlled randomized study: 181 patients. Preliminary results].

181 patients have been included in a controlled randomized prospective study to compare two hernia repair technics: Classic al Shouldice herniography vs totally pre-peritoneal video-surgery. There was no mortality and no difference concerning morbidity, operating time and hospital stay. Videosurgery allows detection and treatment of some bilateral hernias not diagnosed by clinical exam, ensures better post-operative comfort and has a significant effect on the time to return to work (12.5 vs 24.3 days). There was no recurrence in either group with a 12-month follow-up. These patients must be followed for a long time to compare their late results with those of conventional technics.