Single-incision laparoscopic surgery for pediatric inguinal hernias using an epidural needle: A reliable and simpler operation method

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic repairs for pediatric inguinal hernia have gained gradual acceptance in the past. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and significance of single-site laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure of the internal ring using an epidural needle for children with inguinal hernia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of 529 children with inguinal hernia who underwent single-site laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure of the internal ring using an epidural needle at our hospital from January 2019 to August 2024. RESULTS: All micro-laparoscopic surgeries were successfully performed in the 529 patients, among them, a contralateral patent processus vaginalis was present in 208 patients with unilateral pathology and thus simultaneously repaired; a total of 737 cases of inguinal hernia were repaired. The average operating time was 13.42 ± 4.42 min for unilateral hernioplasty and 19.20 ± 2.49 min for bilateral hernioplasty. Only one male patient experienced a recurrence that required reoperation. In terms of postoperative complications, there were no surgical site infections, testicular atrophy, or abdominal adhesions. The mean follow-up time was 14.12 ± 3.45 months. All the patients had a small operative scar, which was minimally visible. CONCLUSION: Single-port laparoscopic surgery using an epidural needle for children is a technically straightforward and reliable approach for treating pediatric inguinal hernias, characterized by high applicability, minimal postoperative complications, reduced recurrence risk, rapid convalescence, and superior aesthetic outcomes.