Minimally invasive surgery
TAPP inguinal hernia repair
A laparoscopic approach that places the mesh behind the abdominal wall muscles, covering the inguinal and femoral regions.
Indications
- Inguinal hernia (primary or recurrent)
- Femoral hernia
- Bilateral hernias
- Occult hernia or uncertain diagnosis
Steps
- General anaesthesia
- Laparoscopic entry into the abdomen
- Opening of the peritoneum over the inguinal region
- Dissection and reduction of the hernia sac
- Placement of a mesh in the preperitoneal space
- Closure of the peritoneum over the mesh
Advantages
TAPP allows inspection of both groins, treats femoral and inguinal hernias through the same incisions, and can be used for recurrent hernias after previous open repair.
Risks
As with any surgery, TAPP carries risks including bleeding, infection, mesh-related complications, recurrence and, rarely, injury to abdominal organs. The surgeon will discuss these during the consultation.
