Open preperitoneal mesh repair of recurrent inguinal and femoral hernias.

Recurrences of inguinal hernias are a not infrequent problem seen by the surgeon. Usually, repair of these hernias is technically more demanding than the original repairs, with potential for a new recurrence, and a higher risk of complications. Open preperitoneal placement of prosthetic mesh is an effective method of repair for such recurrences. It can easily be performed, using epidural or caudal anesthesia, in the intact preperitoneal space, with extremely low recurrence rates, low morbidity, and high patient satisfaction. We present our experience with this technique in 27 patients during a 7-year period. Mean follow-up was 45 months. The procedure was safe (no significant early and late morbidity) and achieved a safe repair (no recurrence during the follow-up period).