Learning curve in laparoscopic hernioplasty in a University Center in Uruguay

he implementation of laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty requires the application of a safe and feasible teaching program within the framework of an experienced staff. Training, anatomical knowledge and systematization are fundamental pillars in the learning curve. Laparoscopic resolution of hernial pathology is considered one of the most complex procedures to teach. The standardization of the surgical technique allows to achieve shorter learning curves, bearing in mind that it is longer in the laparoscopic approach than in the classic open approach. Objectives: To evaluate through surgical time, the evolution in the learning curve for laparoscopic hernioplasty in a university center. Methodology: An observational, retrospective, descriptive, retrospective study was carried out, based on the analysis of medical records of patients who underwent laparoscopic hernias at the Hospital de Clínicas, between March 2021 and March 2024. Results: Of the total number of patients collected, 87 met the established The N for group A was 40, while the N for group B was 47. The average surgical procedure time for group A was 130 minutes, while for group B it was 85 minutes, showing a P-value of 0.0002. An average time reduction of 34.5% (45 min) was observed. Conclusion: Although there is no consensus on the surgical times and the number of procedures necessary to complete a learning curve in laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery, we have been able to evaluate it in our hospital. The creation of the wall unit had a positive impact, generating a decrease in surgical times.