Outcomes of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using tail-anchor mesh fixation method: A retrospective study.

Background: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (LIHR) has become increasingly popular, but recurrence remains a concern. This study introduces a novel tail-anchor mesh (TAM) fixation method for LIHR and evaluates the safety, feasibility and clinical outcomes of this technique in patients undergoing LIHR.

Patients and methods: Between June 2018 and June 2020, 412 patients with inguinal hernias were included in the study. LIHR with the TAM method was performed in 210 patients (Group A), whereas 202 patients underwent LIHR with conventional mesh fixation (Group B). Statistical analysis was used to compare clinical data between the two groups.

Results: The recurrence rate and incidence of seroma were significantly lower in Group A (0.48% and 1.90%, respectively) than in Group B (3.96% and 9.41%, respectively) (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of demographic indicators, intraoperative blood loss, operation time, hospital stay or patient costs (all P > 0.05). Follow-ups at 24 and 53 months after discharge revealed no cases of wound infection, chronic pain or testicular atrophy in either group.

Conclusions: The TAM fixation method is a safe, feasible and reproducible technique for LIHR and offers superior outcomes compared with conventional mesh fixation, particularly in reducing recurrence and seroma formation.