Outcomes of laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia repair in overweight and obese patients.

Abstract

Background: Inguinal hernia repair in patients with high body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m² is associated with higher technical difficulties and longer perioperative time. Few studies, however, have compared the outcomes of laparoscopic versus open inguinal hernia repair in patients with high BMI in the Australian population.

Methods: In this retrospective observational study, we analyzed the data from 315 adult patients with a healthy BMI of 18.5-24.9, overweight BMI of 25-29.9, and obese BMI of 30-≥40 and analyzed the operative time and recovery time considering the type of surgery, patient comorbidities, BMI category, and operator expertise.

Results: There is a significant positive relationship between the BMI of the patient and the type of surgery performed (laparoscopic/open) as well as the BMI and recovery time p < 0.001.

Conclusion: Post-operative recovery time was measurably longer in patients with BMI > 25, with an average of 28 extra minutes compared to patients with a normal BMI. Open inguinal hernia repair was mainly offered to morbidly obese patients (obesity class 3) and elderly patients, and laparoscopic surgery was offered to younger patients with lower BMI.