Prospective randomized study comparing mesh displacement in enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal versus totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair without mesh fixation.

Purpose: In laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair, it is thought that the mesh can be displaced more in the enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) technique. The aim of this study was to compare eTEP and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) techniques without mesh fixation in terms of mesh displacement and hernia recurrence.

Methods: Between December 2022 and April 2023, 60 consecutive patients with unilateral inguinal hernia were randomized into two groups; eTEP group (n = 30) and TEP group (n = 30). There was without mesh fixation in both groups. Study was registered at http://Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06070142). The mesh was marked with three radiopaque clips. Pelvic radiographs were performed to evaluate the displacement of the mesh. The primary outcome of this study was mesh displacement. In addition, this is the first study in the literature to compare eTEP and TEP techniques in terms of mesh displacement without fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia.

Results: There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of mesh displacement, recurrence, postoperative VAS scores, length of hospital stay, hematoma, and seroma formation. The operation time was higher in the eTEP group and was statistically significant.

Conclusion: Without mesh fixation, the eTEP technique does not increase the risk of mesh displacement and recurrence. The eTEP technique can be safely applied without mesh fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials number: NCT06070142.