OBJECTIVETo compare the efficacy of laparoscopic versus open tension-free mesh repair using biologic mesh for inguinal strangulated hernia.

METHODSClinical data of 27 patients with inguinal strangulated hernia in the Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital between January 2012 and April 2014 were analyzed retrospectively. All the patients underwent one-stage tension-free repair using biological mesh, including laparoscopic(n=13) and open procedures(n=14).

RESULTSAs compared with the open group, the laparoscopic group had shorter operative time [(90.8±11.6) min vs. (130.8±32.5) min, P<0.01], lower rates of hematoma/seroma and wound infection[(7.7% vs. 42.9%) and (0 vs. 28.6%) respectively, both P<0.05], faster recovery of bowel function [(2.5±0.3) d vs. (3.8±1.4) d, P<0.01], and shorter hospital stay [(6.3±1.8) d vs. (9.8±3.2) d, P<0.01]. The mean follow-up was 5.7 months (ranged from 2 to 12 months), and no recurrence or serious complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONLaparoscopic tension-free hernia repair using biological mesh for inguinal strangulated hernia has significant advantage versus open operation.