The Importance of Preserving the Round Ligament in the Repair of Inguinal Hernias in Women

Study Overview:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of preserving or not preserving the round ligament during laparoscopic Trans Abdominal Pre-Peritoneal (TAPP) hernia repair on postoperative outcomes in female patients. Specifically, the study will compare outcomes such as postoperative pain, seroma, hematoma, prolapsus of uterina, recurrence rates, and quality of life between patients whose round ligament was preserved versus those whose ligament was cut.

Background:

In women, inguinal hernias are less common but can present as femoral, inguinal, or obturator hernias. Treatment usually involves surgical repair, which can be performed using open or laparoscopic techniques. Laparoscopic methods, especially TAPP and Total Extraperitoneal (TEP), are increasingly preferred due to their lower recurrence rates and other benefits compared to open surgery.

Advantages of Laparoscopic TAPP Surgery:

Small Incisions: Results in less risk of complications and cosmetic benefits. Bilateral Viewing: Allows visualization and treatment of both sides simultaneously.

Lower Infection Risk: Smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection. Faster Recovery: Less postoperative pain and quicker return to daily activities.

Reduced Recurrence: More effective in preventing recurrence, especially after an initial open surgery.

Round Ligament Considerations:

The round ligament connects the uterus to the labia majora and can be involved in the TAPP procedure. The debate centers on whether to preserve or cut the round ligament during surgery. Preservation can be technically challenging due to adhesions, but cutting the ligament might impact recurrence rates and patient outcomes negatively.

There is ongoing debate about whether to preserve or cut the round ligament during laparoscopic preperitoneal repair in female patients. Many surgeons express concerns that preserving the round ligament may increase the risk of hernia recurrence. A recent study encompassing 1,365 women who underwent various methods of inguinal hernia repair (open, laparoscopic, or robotic) found that in 868 cases (63.6%) , the round ligament was cut. This suggests that in practice, round ligament division is commonly performed during both open and laparoscopic procedures.

However, literature indicates that there are few studies with weak evidence suggesting that not preserving the round ligament may lead to issues such as pain, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), organ prolapse, and decreased quality of life.

Study Objectives:

Compare Outcomes: Assess the effects of preserving versus cutting the round ligament on postoperative pain, hernia recurrence, and quality of life.

Prospective Analysis: Collect and analyze data prospectively to determine the optimal surgical approach.

Conclusion:

This study aims to provide insights into the optimal surgical technique for female inguinal hernia repair using TAPP, highlighting the importance of round ligament management and its impact on patient outcomes.

Inclusion criteria

• For patients applying to the General Surgery Clinic of Basaksehir Cam Sakura City Hospital:
• Age Range: Female patients aged between 18 and 70 years.
• Type of Hernia: Patients with inguinal, direct or indirect, femoral, and obturator hernias.
• Surgical Indication: Patients indicated for TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal) surgery.
• Consent: Patients who consent to participate in the study.
• General Anesthesia: Patients who are suitable for general anesthesia.
• Follow-up: Patients who attend follow-up appointments regularly.

Exclusion criteria

• Age: Female patients under 18 years old or over 70 years old.
• Surgical Technique: Patients who are operated on with techniques other than TAPP (e.g., TEP, conventional surgery).
• Hernia Type: Patients with strangulated or incarcerated hernias.
• Hernia Location: Patients with hernias outside the groin region.
• Surgical Site: Surgeries performed in different clinics.
• Gender: Male patients.