Comparison between Laparoscopic and Open Repair of Umbilical and Paraumbilical Hernia: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study

Background: Laparoscopic repair of umbilical and paraumbilical hernia has largely replaced conventional (Open) repair. The purpose of the study was to compare the effectiveness of laparoscopic vs. open repair of umbilical & para umbilical hernia in a tertiary care government hospital.

Methods: A total 50 patients of age >18 years diagnosed with umbilical and paraumbilical hernia who underwent laparoscopic and open hernia repair from May2018 to Nov 2020 were enrolled and divided into two groups of 25 patients in each. The patients were followed up in the post-operative period in the wards during daily rounds till the time of discharge; 1 and 6 months after discharge and yearly.

Results: The mean age for open group was 44.24±7.68years while the mean age for laparoscopic group was 50.0±11.82years. Operative time was more in laparoscopic repair (81.68±18.37min) as compared to open (55.44±16.54min). Post-operative pain (VAS score) was greatest in the open group in comparison to lap group at 6 hr, 24 hr, day 8 and at 1month. Postoperative overall complication rate (Infection, seroma and recurrence) was 12% in the laparoscopic group and 28% in the open group. Recovery was faster with laparoscopic repair with a mean postoperative hospital stay of 3.28days as compared to 5.88days for open mesh repair. Patients treated with laparoscopic repair were early return to routine activity and work.

Conclusion: The laparoscopic approach appears to be safe, effective and acceptable. It is a complex but very efficient method in experienced hands and it offered a significant advantage over open repair.