What technique is recommended for protecting the ilioinguinal nerve during hernia repair?

Employing gentle dissection and isolating the ilioinguinal nerve behind the aponeurosis is the recommended technique during hernia repair to protect the nerve. This approach allows the surgeon to visualize and preserve the nerve, minimizing the risk of nerve injury and subsequent complications such as neuralgia or numbness in the groin area.

During hernia repair, careful dissection is crucial to identify all relevant anatomical structures. The ilioinguinal nerve runs close to the spermatic cord or round ligament and may be inadvertently damaged if not carefully handled. By isolating the nerve and keeping it behind the aponeurosis, the surgeon can avoid direct trauma, thereby preserving its function and preventing postoperative discomfort.

Other techniques, such as severing or removing the nerve, are not appropriate as they can lead to increased morbidity, like chronic pain or loss of sensation in the nerve's distribution. Similarly, using a vascular clamp could cause unnecessary pressure or damage to the nerve, further complicating the surgical outcome. Therefore, gentle dissection is the safest and most effective strategy for nerve preservation during this surgical procedure.