Laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia repair: Patient reported outcomes in the elderly from a single centre - A prospective cohort study

Background With those over 65 making up over 16% of the UK's population, surgeons are counselling increasing numbers of elderly patients for hernia repair. Data is currently lacking comparing different repair methods of inguinal hernias in the elderly population with regards to patient reported outcomes. Aim To compare open and laparoscopic hernia repair in patients >65 years old and those 65 TEP group this was significantly lower (10.2% open IHR 65). Patient satisfaction with the surgery was satisfied or very satisfied in all patients in all groups. Conclusion Time off work is not an absolute appropriate measure of return to premorbid status with respect to the elderly as a substantial number of >65 year olds have retired. We therefore present this interesting insight into patient perceptions following hernia repair by age group. Overall patients over 65 can expect the same high levels of satisfaction and low levels of pain following either technique for inguinal hernia repair as younger patients.
Highlights • Time off work is not an appropriate measure of laparoscopic hernia repair in the over 65 year old population as the majority of this cohort is retired. • Dizziness and drowsiness appeared to be no more prevalent in the over 65 year age group. • Patient satisfaction with the surgery was satisfied or very satisfied in all patients in all groups. • Overall a patient of any age can expect the same high levels of satisfaction and low levels of pain with either technique.