Pitfalls in diagnostic laparoscopic evaluation of the contralateral groin

Laparoscopic evaluation of the contralateral inguinal region at the time of unilateral herniorraphy is gaining popularity as a technique to reduce the incidence of negative contralateral groin exploration. However, failure to recognize certain technical problems and limitations associated with diagnostic laparoscopy can interfere with its efficacy. The authors describe six patients in whom technical difficulties limited the efficacy of diagnostic laparoscopy.