Microlaparoscopic Approach For Inguinal Hernia Repair in Infants With Repaired Bladder Exstrophy

Open hernia repair in infants with repaired bladder exstrophy can be very difficult. Laparoscopy with its high magnification and easier access to the inner inguinal ring can be an alternative to open repair. We present our early experience on laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in two boys with repaired bladder exstrophy. The procedures were performed microlaparoscopically which is technically identical to procedures performed during standard laparoscopy with only difference is the exclusive use of small diameter scopes. Three ports were used for the procedure. The internal inguinal ring was closed with a regular 4–0 nonabsorbable monofilamentous suture in a purse-string suture fashion in one case and N suture closure in the other case. Two boys, one year and four months year old respectively were operated with microlaparoscopically. Although postoperative follow-up in the first case operated with N suture closure, was uneventful, early recurrence occured in last case operated with a purse-string suture fashion. The microlaparoscopic approach in these inguinal hernia operations, is feasible with its nearly scarless" healing, and the advantage of evaluation of contralateral side and prevents these unnecessary explorations.