TITANIUM CLIPS FOR CLOSURE OF THE PERITONEAL FLAP DURING LAPAROSCOPIC INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR

BACKGROUND: The laparoscopic approach for inguinal hernia repair has been widely used since its introduction in the 1990s. As a step in the procedure, the surgeon must access the preperitoneal space through an incision in the peritoneum, creating an adequate dissection for mesh placement. At the end of the procedure, the peritoneal flap must be closed to avoid adhesions. There are several methods to close the peritoneum. AIMS: The aim of this study was to propose a simple method for closing the peritoneal flap, using titanium clips, exposing its advantages and disadvantages. METHODS: Description of the peritoneum flap closure technique, using titanium clips, in the last 15 years. RESULTS: The pneumoperitoneum was reduced to a pressure of 7 mmHg; then, the two edges of the peritoneal flap were approximated together and, with the aid of a Maryland grasper, were kept together; titanium clips were used to close the flap. The process is repeated along the entire peritoneal incision until it is completely closed. CONCLUSIONS: The use of titanium clips proved to be a fast, inexpensive, and effective method for closing the peritoneal flap in videolaparoscopic inguinal hernioplasties, with no major or recurrent complications reported. Therefore, it is an effective and safe method for the closure of the peritoneal defect.