Abstract
The present study aims to compare the Lichtenstein technique, the gold standard of open techniques of inguinal herniorrhaphy surgery, performed in a tension-free manner using a screen, and the Robot Assisted Repair technique (R-IHR), which uses the surgical principles of the minimally invasive laparoscopic technique, allowing totally extraperitoneal, or transabdominal peritoneal repair. The techniques were compared regarding complications in general, pain related to procedures, seromas and bruises, infection, inguinodynia, recurrence, learning curve, recovery time, reproducibility and cost-benefit. Thus, it was observed that the R-IHR technique has advantages such as fewer complications and less infection rate, however, it showed a higher cost and a higher incidence of inguinodynia, in addition to greater learning complexity. Therefore, corroborating the premise of the Brazilian Hernia Society, there is no universal herniorrhaphy technique. The method and variables should be evaluated and its cost-benefit for the best choice of technique.