Objective To assess the value of outer thimble of epidural anesthesia needle in laparoscopic high ligation for indirect inguinal hernia in children.Methods From April 2003 to May 2006,outer thimble of epidural anesthesia needle,instead of sledge-like hook needle,was utilized in 230 cases during laparoscopic high ligation for indirect inguinal hernia in chilren.Results All the operations on 230 patients were successfully performed.The operation time was 8-10 minutes in 161 patients with unilateral hernia,15-20 minutes in 39 patients with incarcerated hernia,16-20 minutes in 30 patients with bilateral hernia.Edema of scrotum,testis pain and ischemia were not found after operation.Follow-up for 2-6 months in 111 cases,6-12 months in 52 cases,12-24 months in 37 cases,24-36 months in 30 cases showed no recurrence.Conclusions Outer thimble of epidural anesthesia needle can be substituted for sledge-like hook needle in children hernia high ligation,with the advantages of simple procedure and economy.