Comparative study of laparoscopic and open inguinal herniotomy in children in ile ife, Nigeria: A prospective randomized trial

Background: Inguinal hernia in children is currently treated through a groin incision with access to the inguinal canal and handling of the spermatic cord. In the face of the growing utilization of laparoscopic surgery in Nigeria, it was important to compare the outcome of laparoscopic and open herniotomy (OH) in our local teaching hospital to create a basis for recommendation. Objectives: We compared OH with laparoscopic needle assisted hernia repair (LNAR) in children in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile Ife. Methodology: A prospective study involving children who presented with uncomplicated inguinal hernia, carried out within the period of 1 year in our center. Results: In the LNAR group, there were 24 (75%) males and 8 (25%) females, while in the OH group, there were 29 (90.6%) males and 3 (9.4%) females. The age range for LNAR was 2-156 (median = 44) months and OH was 2-168 (median = 36) months. Higher complication rate for OH was found to be statistically significant (P = .001). The total operating time was found to be similar between the two groups for both unilateral and bilateral hernias (P = .636 and P = .334, respectively). Two contralateral patent processus vaginalis (PPV) were identified during laparoscopy and were repaired at the same sitting. Conclusion: Postoperative complications are significantly lower with LNAR. Duration of surgery for LNAR is similar to OH. Incidence of contralateral PPV seen following unilateral LNAR is low.