A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF OPEN VERSUS LAPAROSCOPIC I NGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR IN CHILDREN
Main Article Content
Keywords
Inguinal hernia, Pediatric surgery, Laparoscopic repair, Open repair, Postoperative outcomes, minimally invasive surgery, Hernia recurrence, Cosmetic outcomes.
Abstract
Background
Inguinal hernia repair is a common pediatric surgical procedure, with open and laparoscopic techniques being the two main approaches. While both methods are effective, each has unique advantages and limitations.
Objective
This study was aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of open versus laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in children to provide evidence for choosing the optimal approach.
Methods
This cross-sectional comparative study was carried out at the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Khalifa Gulnawaz Teaching Hospital, Bannu Medical College, Bannu, Pakistan, from Oct, 2009 to Mar, 2010. A total of 120 pediatric patients were included, with 60 undergoing open surgery and 60 undergoing laparoscopic repair. Demographic characteristics, operative details, postoperative outcomes, and parental satisfaction were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant differences between the groups.
Results
Laparoscopic repair demonstrated advantages in terms of shorter hospital stays (1.5 vs 1.8 days, p< 0.05), reduced pain scores (3.5 vs 4.2, p< 0.05), faster return to normal activities (5.2 vs 7.5 days, p< 0.01), and better cosmetic outcomes (87% vs 75% achieving good results, p< 0.05). However, laparoscopic procedures required significantly longer operative times (60.8 vs. 50.3 minutes, p< 0.01) and incurred higher surgical costs. Complication rates, including recurrence and wound infections, were low and comparable between groups. Parental satisfaction was higher for laparoscopic surgery due to faster recovery and improved cosmetic outcomes.
Conclusion
Both open and laparoscopic hernia repairs are safe and effective options for children. Laparoscopic repair offers significant advantages in recovery, pain reduction, and aesthetics but requires more operative time and resources. Tailored decision-making, considering patient and family preferences and healthcare settings, remains essential.
References
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Dr. Muhammad Jehangir Khan
Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatric Surgery, Khalifa Gulnawaz Teaching Hospital, Bannu Medical College, Bannu, Pakistan