A randomized comparison of physical performance following laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia repair

Background Return to normal activity after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair has been reported to occur sooner than after conventional repair. Methods As part of a randomized study, the ability of patients to return to normal activity was assessed by measuring abdominal muscular performance with an exercise test. In addition, patients completed a questionnaire concerning activities of daily life (ADL) and were asked when they returned to normal activities. All patients were given similar instructions for resumption of activities. Results Patients who had a laparoscopic repair returned to normal activities sooner (6 versus 10 days; P = 0.0003). One week after operation, these patients were able to perform more repetitions of both exercises (14 versus two straight leg raises; 16 versus seven curled sit ups; both P< 0.0001) and their ADL scores were significantly better (89 versus 72; P= 0.0001). Conclusion Laparoscopic hernia repair results in a quicker recovery.