Laparoscopic vs. laparoscopically assisted pediatric inguinal hernia repair: a systematic review

Systematic review of 2,196 pediatric patients comparing totally laparoscopic versus laparoscopically assisted inguinal hernia repair finds equivalent recurrence rates (1.68% vs 1.59%) and overall safety. Key differences: laparoscopic repairs show higher transient hydrocele rates while assisted repairs have more wound complications.