Outcomes Following Lichtenstein Mesh Repair: Single Center Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate postoperative early and late complications of primary inguinal hernia repair by Lichtenstein Mesh Technique.
Study Design: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of General Surgery, MTI/Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from 14 June 2024 to 14 December 2024.
Materials and Methods: A total of 69 patients with primary inguinal hernia, aged 18–70 years, were enrolled via non-probability consecutive sampling. All patients underwent Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair performed by a consultant surgeon. Early (≤30 days) complications, including hematoma and wound infection, and late (6 months) complications, including chronic groin pain and recurrence, were recorded. The clinicodemographic data were documented, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 23. Chi Square and
Fisher's Exact test was used and the p value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Among the 69 patients, the recurrence rate was 10.1%. The significant associations were found between hernia recurrence and the following variables: hernia duration ≥5 years (p < 0.001), low socioeconomic status (p < 0.001), illiteracy (p < 0.001), and presence of comorbidities (p = 0.001), postoperative hematoma (p < 0.001), and chronic groin pain (p < 0.001). No statistically significant association was observed with age, hernia type or side, residence, or surgical site infection.
Conclusion: Lichtenstein mesh repair proved safe with acceptable postoperative outcomes. The recurrence rate was 10.1%, significantly linked to prolonged hernia duration, low socioeconomic and educational status, comorbidities, hematoma, and chronic groin pain.