Comparison of TEP vs eTEP technique for groin hernia repair in terms of post operative outcomes and learning curve : A Randomized trial

Inguinal hernia is one of the most common problems in surgical patients. Various approaches are available for inguinal hernia repair. In this study, we will include two techniques eTEP and TEP for inguinal hernia repair. TEP has been commonly used previously but it has been cumbersome due to poor ergonomics and small operating space. Beside this, larger size mesh can be placed.

Our primary objective is to compare the postoperative outcome of eTEP and TEP repair for groin hernia in terms of complications - Post operative pain, Wound infection, Seroma and Early Recurrence. By exploring the data from this study, we aim to provide insights into potential difference in outcomes. Secondarily, the quality of life will be assessed pre operatively at the time of admission using Quality of life assessment proforma (WHO-QOL BREF) in Hindi/English. The same performa will be used 3 months post operatively in all domains of WHOQOL-BREF i.e., physical, psychological, social, environmental. Patients will be operated by two group of surgeons : Group 1 - Surgeon with extensive experience in laparoscopic groin hernia repair , Group 2 - Surgeon with extensive experience in basic and advanced laparoscopic surgery but inexperienced in groin hernia surgery. Considering the better ergonomics in eTEP technique and lesser postoperative complications with shorter learning curve, we propose this randomized trial to compare eTEP and TEP.