Outcomes of Mesh Plug Repair for Open Inguinal Hernia Performed by Resident Surgeons: Safety and Significance

<title>Abstract</title> <p>Purpose We investigated the outcomes of inguinal hernia repair performed by resident surgeons and explored the effects of this experience on the subsequent selection of specialties for advanced training. Methods Residents underwent surgical training, which included instructional surgical videos, before performing inguinal hernia repair. In this retrospective cohort study, patients were grouped according to the operating surgeon (resident vs. surgical staff), and patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were compared between these groups. Career choices were self-reported 6 months after the residency rotation was completed. Results During the study period, residents performed 47 of 296 inguinal hernia repairs (16%). The recurrence (2.1% vs. 2.4%, P = 0.91) and postoperative complication rates (6.4% vs. 1.6%, P = 0.05) did not differ between residents and surgical staff. Before training, 6 of 18 residents intended to pursue surgery; however, 9 of 18 ultimately chose surgery as their career path. Conclusion With appropriate supervision, inguinal hernia repair can be safely performed by residents. Early exposure to surgery may be associated with increased interest in pursuing a surgical career.</p>