Is laparoscopic herniorrhaphy an effective alternative to open hernia repair?

While the inguinal approach to hernia repair remains the standard of care, laparoscopic hernia repair techniques are rapidly evolving. The first 102 laparoscopic hernia repairs were reviewed. Reported herein are the types of hernias repaired, length of hospital stay, early recurrence rate, complications, and assessment of postoperative pain. The long-term recurrence rate has yet to be determined. From these results, it is felt that in select patients, laparoscopic hernia repair is an effective surgical alternative in the treatment of inguinal hernia.