Feasibility study of open inguinal hernia repair using mesh plug by residents.

BACKGRAUND/OBJECTIVE: Inguinal hernia repair by mesh-plug (MP) is one of the most common general surgeries, and even residents can perform it. The aim of this study was to investigate the postoperative outcome of MP repair by residents and risk factors related to the recurrence.

METHODS: This study included 658 patients underwent MP repair for inguinal hernia. We compared short- and long-term outcomes of the MP repair by residents who were postgraduate year two with those by non-residents. Late complications were investigated via questionnaire.

RESULTS: Among the patients, 206 patients (31%) underwent MP repair by residents, and the other 452 patients (69%) by non-residents. Operative time was significantly longer in the resident group (63 vs. 58 min, P = 0.004). Incidence of short- and long-term complications was not significantly different. The 3-year recurrence rate was significantly higher in the resident group (4.1 vs. 0.9%, P = 0.003). By multivariate analysis, independent perioperative risk factors related to recurrence were surgery by residents (Odds ratio 3.42, 95% CI 1.34-8.76, p = 0.010) and direct hernia (Odds ratio 7.69, 95% CI 2.83-20.83, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: The MP repair by residents and direct hernia were risk factors related to recurrence. Surgeons should provide very careful guidance to residents especially for direct hernia.