A Comparative Study Between Laparoscopic Tapp Plus and Open Patch Repair for Medium-Sized Ventral Hernia

Background: Ventral hernia repair has undergone significant evolution, shifting from conventional open techniques to minimally invasive approaches. Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) Plus repair allows anatomical restoration with potentially lower morbidity; however, its comparative effectiveness with open patch repair in medium-sized ventral hernias remains to be fully established.

Objectives: To compare laparoscopic TAPP Plus repair and open patch repair in terms of postoperative pain, complications, duration of hospital stay, and recurrence.

Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on 65 patients with medium-sized ventral hernias (<5 cm) at a tertiary care centre. Patients were managed either by laparoscopic TAPP Plus repair (n=22) or open mesh repair (n=43). Postoperative outcomes including pain (VAS score), complications, and hospital stay were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.

Results: Patients undergoing laparoscopic TAPP Plus repair experienced significantly lower postoperative pain at one week (p <0.001) and shorter hospital stay (4.0 vs 5.23 days; p <0.001). Although wound infection and seroma formation were less frequent in the laparoscopic group, the differences were not statistically significant. No recurrence was observed in either group during the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic TAPP Plus repair is a safe and effective alternative to open repair for medium-sized ventral hernias, offering better early postoperative outcomes and faster recovery.