Early experience with laparoscopic herniorrhaphy: results after the first 60 procedures.

The results of the first 60 consecutive laparoscopic hernia repairs performed in Calderdale are presented. These results are encouraging as recovery from surgery is much quicker and allows a shorter hospital stay and a speedier return to work than conventional operations. The laparoscopic procedure takes longer to perform, although this does not seem unacceptable once experience is gained. At present it remains quite expensive and further reductions in hospital stay will need to be achieved to ensure that there is no overall increase in the financial resources required.