Routine closed-suction drainage reduces seromas following totally extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair: A meta-analysis.

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>The value of prophylactic closed-suction drainage in totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TEP) is still a matter of controversy. We conducted a meta-analysis of studies examining postoperative seroma rates in patients with or without routine placement of closed-suction drainage tubes.<h4>Methods</h4>A systematic literature search was conducted for trials comparing the outcome of TEP with or without routine drainage placement. Data regarding postoperative outcomes were extracted and compared by meta-analysis. The odds ratio and standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated.<h4>Results</h4>Four studies were identified, involving a total of 1626 cases (Drain: n = 1251, no Drain: n = 375). There was a statistically significant difference noted between the 2 groups regarding postoperative seroma formation favoring the Drain group (odds ratio = 0.12; 95% confidence intervals [0.05, 0.29]; P < .001; 4 studies; I2 = 72%). For the remaining secondary endpoints postoperative urinary retention, recurrence, mesh infection and in-hospital length of stay no statistically significant difference was noted between the 2 study groups.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Current evidence suggests that patients who underwent TEP with routine closed-suction drain placement developed significantly fewer seromas without any additional morbidity or prolongation of in-hospital stay.