Beneficios de la cirugía laparoscópica versus la cirugía abierta en la calidad de vida postoperatoria de pacientes con hernia inguinal: una revisión sistemática

Inguinal hernia is a highly prevalent surgical condition worldwide, the management of which has evolved toward minimally invasive techniques. This systematic review synthesizes recent evidence (2020–2025) comparing laparoscopic (TAPP/TEP) versus open surgery, with emphasis on postoperative quality of life. Results demonstrate that the laparoscopic approach offers significant advantages: it reduces chronic pain (RR 0.36; 95% CI: 0.15–0.81), accelerates return to work, and improves validated quality-of-life scores (EuraHS-QoL). No differences were found in recurrence rates when mesh is used. The choice of technique should be individualized based on patient characteristics, hernia type, surgical experience, and institutional context. Laparoscopy emerges as a superior option in functional recovery without compromising long-term efficacy.