SURGICAL TREATMENT OF INGUINAL HERNIA: CURRENT APPROACHES AND CLINICAL RESULTS

Abstract

Inguinal hernia is the most common form of abdominal wall hernia, accounting for approximately 75% of cases and significantly higher in men. Diagnosis is usually clinical, but imaging may be required, especially in women. Surgery is the definitive treatment, with several techniques available, including open Lichtenstein hernioplasty and minimally invasive approaches, such as laparoscopic TEP (total extraperitoneal hernia repair) and robotic surgery. This study, a literature review based on recent literature, compared the main surgical techniques. The analysis demonstrated that, although the TEP technique requires longer operative time, it offers significant advantages, such as less postoperative pain, a lower rate of chronic pain, and a faster return to normal activities. The robotic technique produces similar results to laparoscopy, but is more costly and time-consuming, limiting its widespread adoption. The data reinforce the superiority of the laparoscopic approach in terms of postoperative quality of life, especially when performed by experienced surgeons. However, the choice of technique should be individualized, considering clinical and structural factors and patient preferences.