The investigation survey of inguinal hernia operation techniques preferred by pediatric surgeons in Turkey

In inguinal hernia, standard procedure has been considered open repair for a long time, the number of pediatric surgeons who prefer laparoscopic techniques is increasing day by day. In this study, it was aimed to determine how pediatric surgeons in our country approach patients with inguinal hernia and manage the treatment process. Controversial issues on inguinal hernia repair were identified and a questionnaire was prepared to reveal the current situation. The questionnaire was delivered to members of Turkish Association of Pediatric Surgery on the official website of the association. The survey was directed to 420 people, 92 people returned with the answers to the questionnaire. Thirty-six of the surgeons prefer the laparoscopic method for inguinal hernia repair. The reason for choosing open surgery was questioned, the most frequent answer was to be more experienced and to have more cumulative knowledge on open repair method. According to survey, the greatest advantage of laparoscopy was stated to be the better evaluation of the contralateral inguinal canal (n=16, %44.4). Twelve of surgeons who performed laparoscopic treatment in the selection of patients stated that gender is important and prefer laparoscopic surgery for female patients. Thirty percent (n = 11) of the participants stated that they prefer laparoscopy in patients between 3 months and 13 years old, while the rest prefer laparoscopy at all ages. In conclusion thirty nine percent of surgeons in Turkey prefer laparoscopic repair. Open repair is still preferred in our country. There is still no consensus on perfect method and patient selection yet.