Feasibility of Single-Incision Laparoscopic Percutaneous Extraperitoneal Closure for Inguinal Hernia by Inexperienced Pediatric Surgeons: Single-Incision Versus Multi-Incision Randomized Trial for 2 Years.

<bold>Purpose: </bold>This study evaluated the stability and risk of single-incision laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (SILPEC) for pediatric inguinal hernia performed by inexperienced pediatric surgeons versus conventional LPEC procedure.<bold>Methods: </bold>Between 2011 and 2012, a randomized prospective study was performed comparing SILPEC (n = 37, 16 uni- and 21 bilateral patent processus vaginalis [PPV]) to LPEC (n = 72, 39 uni- and 33 bilateral PPV). The procedures were performed in girls with inguinal hernia by inexperienced pediatric surgeons with the assistance of an expert pediatric surgeon. In SILPEC, a laparoscope was placed through a transumbilical incision. A 2-mm trocar for the grasper was inserted through the same incision and introduced into the extraperitoneal cavity. The tip of the trocar was inserted in the abdominal cavity distant from the umbilical incision by the expert surgeon to avoid any complications caused by the in-line view. Using a special needle, the hernial sac was closed extraperitoneally by the inexperienced surgeon. A statistical survey of the mean age at operation, mean operative time, intra- and postoperative complications, and recurrence in the SILPEC and LPEC groups was performed.<bold>Results: </bold>There were no significant differences in the mean age or operative time. There were fewer total number of postoperative complications in the SILPEC group compared with the LPEC group (P = .0707). No intraoperative complications or recurrence occurred.<bold>Conclusions: </bold>Considering the risks and need to improve endoscopic surgical skills with useful instruments specialized for SILPEC, inexperienced surgeons can successfully perform SILPEC safely under expert pediatric surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]