In the TEP (totally extraperitoneal) repair of inguinal hernia, the anatomical space dissected is:

• A Peritoneal cavity
• B Retroperitoneum posterior to the kidney
• C Space of Retzius (retropubic space) and the preperitoneal space ✓
• D Bogros' space alone (lateral preperitoneal space)

Explanation

TEP repair involves dissection in the preperitoneal space — specifically the space of Retzius (retropubic/prevesical space medially) and Bogros' space (lateral preperitoneal space). The peritoneum is never entered. A mesh (typically 10×15 cm or larger) is placed in this space, covering the myopectineal orifice of Fruchaud, which includes all potential hernia sites: deep ring (indirect), Hasselbach's triangle (direct), and femoral canal. TAPP (transabdominal preperitoneal) does enter the peritoneal cavity to access the preperitoneal space.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.