INGUINAL HERNIA: SURGICAL APPROACHES AND POSTOPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Introduction: Inguinal hernia is a common condition, especially among the elderly, requiring surgical treatment due to the risk of complications. Surgical approaches, such as open and laparoscopic techniques, have both advantages and limitations, impacting patient recovery and quality of life. Objective: To conduct a literature review on the main surgical approaches for inguinal hernia and associated postoperative complications. Methods: The research was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, covering the period from 2009 to 2024. Terms such as "inguinal hernia," "surgery," "complications," and "surgical techniques" were used, resulting in an initial selection of 2,200 articles. After screening and analysis, 35 studies were included in the review, addressing both surgical techniques and postoperative complications. Results and Discussion: The laparoscopic technique proved advantageous in terms of faster recovery and reduced pain but requires specific resources and expertise. Open surgery is effective but associated with a longer recovery time. Complications, such as infection and chronic pain, are less frequent with laparoscopy; however, elderly patients remain at higher risk, requiring individualized care. Conclusion: The choice of surgical technique for inguinal hernia should consider the patient profile and available resources. This review provides an evidence-based foundation for optimizing treatment and suggests that clinical practice benefits from combining evidence-based protocols with personalized care to minimize risks and improve outcomes.