A rare complication following laparoscopic TEP repair: case report and discussion of the literature

Transabdominal pre-peritoneal and totally extra-preperitoneal (TEP) are common laparoscopic techniques used to repair inguinal hernias. With better equipment and techniques for creation of pneumoperitoneum serious complications are now infrequent. However, complications from these techniques that are beyond the control of the surgeon do occur. This report details a rare complication related to infection. It is the first such documented complication of TEP hernia repair. There follows a short literature review of rare complications of laparoscopic hernia repair. Surgeons should familiarize themselves with these potential pitfalls for a number of reasons including, counseling when obtaining consent and heightened awareness for infrequent complications during postoperative follow-up.