A handy balloon for total extraperitoneal repair of inguinal hernia

BACKGROUND The creation of extraperitoneal space with the help of balloon is helpful in the learning curve of total extraperitoneal repair of inguinal hernia. But the cost of the balloon with other disposable items is one of the limiting factors in the popularity of this operation. By using a homemade balloon, nondispoasable ports and suturing the mesh we have been able to reduce the cost considerably. We would like to present our technique of making the balloon. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between September 2005 and November 2006 we operated 65 consecutive patients of inguinal hernia using the balloon made from the 'video camera drape'. The drape was cut and fixed on a 10 mm suction irrigation cannula. The suction irrigation cannula was used as an obturator as well to inflate the balloon in the extraperitoneal space. RESULTS We succeeded in creating the extraperitoneal space in all patients with the help of this balloon without any complications and conversion to open. There was no leak and bursting of the balloon. CONCLUSION It is cheap, strong, sterile and readily available material for making the balloon for creating the extraperitoneal space in the laparoscopic repair of the inguinal hernia.