eTEP-RS approach for hernia repair improves pain control and quality of life

A recent study published in the Updates in Surgery evaluated the outcomes of laparoscopic enhanced-view Totally Extra-Peritoneal (eTEP) Rives-Stoppa (RS) technique for hernia repair has revealed promising results. The study by Shlomi Rayman and team, based on a retrospective review of patient data collected between 2017 and 2020, focused on assessing the quality of life, post-operative complications, and hernia recurrence rate.

During the study period, a total of 61 patients met the inclusion criteria, with the majority being diagnosed with incisional hernias (65%) followed by primary ventral hernias (35%). The patients' age and body mass index (BMI) were recorded at a median of 62 years and 29.7 kg/m2, respectively. Notably, a significant proportion (39%) had previously undergone hernia repair procedures.

The laparoscopic eTEP-RS technique, which involves a minimally invasive approach, was employed to repair the hernias. In addition to hernia repair, other procedures such as diastasis-recti repair and concomitant inguinal hernia repair were performed on select patients. Transversus abdominis release (TAR) was conducted in a portion of the patient group as well.

The results of the study demonstrated positive outcomes for patients who underwent the eTEP-RS technique. The median follow-up period was 13 months, with 25% of the patients being followed for at least 2 years. The study found a low hernia recurrence rate, with only 4 out of the 61 patients (6.5%) experiencing recurrence.

The evaluation of patients' quality of life using the EuraHS-QoL scale showed significant improvements in various factors, including pain, restrictions, and cosmetic appearance. Pre-operative and post-operative questionnaire scores were available for 46 patients (75%), and the findings indicated a notable reduction in pain levels and restrictions, as well as improved cosmetic appearance following the procedure.

These results highlight the benefits of the eTEP-RS approach for hernia repair, demonstrating its positive impact on patients' quality of life. Furthermore, the study noted acceptable post-operative complication rates, indicating that the technique is safe and effective in the short term. As further research and long-term follow-up studies continue, these findings may contribute to the advancement of surgical techniques and enhance the overall care provided to patients with hernias.

Source:

Rayman, S., Gorgov, E., Assaf, D., Carmeli, I., Nevo, N., Rachmuth, J., & Mnouskin, Y. (2023). Quality of life, post-operative complications, and hernia recurrence following enhanced-view Totally Extra-Peritoneal (eTEP) Rives-Stoppa for incisional and primary ventral hernia repair. In Updates in Surgery. Springer Science and Business Media LLC. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13304-023-01572-x