Our recent prospective randomized controlled study comparing single-port vs. multiport laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal herniorraphy (NCT 01660048) demonstrated superiority of the single-port technique in reducing post-op pain/analgesic requirements, quicker return to work/normal physical activities and improved cosmetic scar scores. During this study all patients underwent the initial extraperitoneal dissection with the distension balloon. However, the balloon itself costs AU $380 per device which represents a significant percentage of the overall cost of the procedure (when the hospital/operating rooms cost is approximately AU $2500 for a unilateral laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair) especially if only unilateral inguinal herniorraphy is performed.