1000 total extraperitoneal (TEP) laparoscopic herniorrhaphies: After the learning curve

This paper reviews 1000 laparoscopic herniorrhaphies in 630 patients performed by attending surgeons at a single community teaching program after each surgeon had significant experience with at least 150 laparoscopic herniorrhaphies. There were three recurrences and no major complications such as bowel, bladder or major vascular injuries. The mean follow-up is 31.5 months (range 14-49 months). Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy is one of the most difficult laparoscopic procedures to learn. Most previously published articles on laparoscopic herniorrhaphy have included data gathered from surgeons progressing through the learning curve. This study shows that for surgeons past the learning curve, the TEP laparoscopic herniorrhaphy is a safe and effective hernia repair with minimal complications and a low short-term recurrence rate.