David Bunting
Introduction
Inguinal hernia repair is a common operation with around 70,000 being performed each year in the UK. Target day case rates set by BADS are 86%-90%. Minimally invasive approaches offer the potential for improved outcomes and higher same day discharge rates.
Aim
This audit aimed to compare day surgery and readmission rates inpatients having open and minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair.
Methods
All patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair surgery between May 2024 and April 2025 in a single UK NHS institution were identified. Data were collected on patient demographics, diagnosis, procedure, operative approach (open, laparoscopic or robotic), morbidity (including readmissions) and mortality. Day case rates were compared in patients undergoing open surgery (OS) with patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery (MIS, laparoscopic or robotic).
Results
917 patients underwent inguinal hernia repair in the 12-month period. 818 patients (89.2%) were discharged on the same day as surgery. Patients were followed up for an average of 15.5 months (range 9-21). Day case rates were higher in patients having MIS compared with patients having OS (93.8% and 87.8% respectively, P<0.008). Bilateral hernias were more common in those having MIS than OS (27.3% vs. 4.1% respectively, P<0.001). Recurrent hernias were more common in those having MIS compared with OS (11.7% vs. 5.9% respectively, P=0.003). Readmission rates were similar in MIS and OS groups ((7.4% vs. 8.1% respectively, P=0.61).
Conclusions
Day surgery rates were higher in patients having MIS compared with those having OS. Readmission rates were similar in MIS and OS groups.
Author
David Bunting
North Devon District Hospital, Barnstaple, United Kingdom