Single-port laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure for inguinal hernias repair in girls: using an epidural needle assisted by a towel forceps

BACKGROUND: The concept of single-port laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure for the treatment of inguinal hernias repair in children has been practising recent years. The applicable instruments and skills are still evolving. In this study, we used an epidural needle assisted by a towel forceps to practise this minimal invasive method for inguinal hernias repair in girls. Its safety and effectiveness were studied. METHODS: From July 2008 to January 2020, thirty-five girls diagnosed of indirect inguinal hernias were studied retrospectively. From April 2017 to January 2020, the author was free to propose open or laparoscopic repair for the patients. The open group included twenty-four girls and the laparoscopic group included eleven. The data of the patients age, constituent ratios of sliding and bilateral hernias, operating time, postoperative time in hospital, follow-up time, conversion, postoperative complications were assessed. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant difference between the laparoscopic group and open group for the following items: age, operating time, postoperative time in hospital, the constituent ratios of sliding hernia and bilateral hernias (P > 0.05). The follow-up time of the open group was longer than that of the laparoscopic group (P = 0.0004). One laparoscopic case was converted to open surgery. After 12 cases of laparoscopic practice, coordination of the hand and eye movements established well. There were no postoperative complications for all the patients. CONCLUSION: Our preliminary experience suggested that it is safe and convenient for inguinal hernias repair in girls by the single-port laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure method using an epidural needle assisted by a towel forceps.