Comparison of Robotic and Laparoscopic Approaches for Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
By
Carlo Alberto Schena
Vito Laterza
Fausto Rosa
August 20, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Comparison of Robotic and Laparoscopic Approaches for Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Inguinal Hernia Repair Key Mechanisms Robotic platforms offer tremor filtration, wristed articulation, three-dimensional visualization, and ergonomic console. Target Population Adults aged ≥18 years undergoing minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. Care Setting Academic or community hospitals, high- or low-volume centers, across various countries.
Key Highlights
Robotic inguinal hernia repair increased significantly from 0.24% to 19.6% in the US Veterans Affairs system between 2008 and 2019. Minimally invasive approaches produce less chronic postoperative pain and faster recovery compared to open repair. Previous meta-analyses had limitations due to non-randomized studies and heterogeneity in outcome assessments. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Eligible trials included adults with unilateral or bilateral, primary or recurrent inguinal hernias. Management
Robotic minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair (r-TAPP or r-TEP) compared to conventional laparoscopic repair (l-TAPP or l-TEP). Monitoring & Follow-up
Outcomes assessed include postoperative complications, recurrence, same-day discharge, and postoperative pain. Risks
Potential risks include chronic pain, readmission, surgical site infection, and conversion to open surgery. Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults aged ≥18 years undergoing minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair.
Robotic repair costs are consistently two to three times those of laparoscopic repair, with unclear benefits.
Clinical Best Practices
Conduct systematic reviews and meta-analyses that include only randomized controlled trials to assess robotic versus laparoscopic repair. Standardize outcome assessments to improve comparability across studies. Related Resources & Content
