This technique of hernia repair involves entering the abdominal cavity to repair the hernia.
The potential space between the peritoneum and the muscles of the abdominal wall is employed.
This space is entered by incising the peritoneum of the abdominal cavity over the hernia site.
The hernia and its contents are returned to the abdominal cavity and large pieces of mesh inserted to cover the "defect".
This mesh is secured to the patient's muscles with titanium tacks or staples.
The peritoneum is then reattached to the abdominal muscles with further tacks or staples.
The recurrence rate following this method of hernia repair is at least as low as any other method in experienced hands.
The advantages of a TAPP laparoscopic hernia repair include:.
Approximately 30% of patients will develop a hernia on the other side.
If an early hernia is noted on the other side at the time of surgery it may be repaired easily without recourse to further operations or scars.
Normal activity is quickly achieved as this repair can be performed as a "day case" even in bilateral hernias.
Potential complications include:
Complications are fortunately rare.
Adhesions occur to areas of cut peritoneum and are, to some extent, inevitable. Adhesions to the mesh may be disastrous and require meticulous closure of the peritoneum over the mesh.