AN EARLY EXPERIENCE WITH LICHTENSTEIN HERNIOPLASTY

Abstract

All standard methods of hernia repairs are associated with
a good number of recurrences. Recently prosthetic materials have been increasingly used in hernia repair to
prevent recurrence but specially Lichtenstein has dramatically changed the outcome. The aim of this study is
to evaluate personal experience with this new technique. Methods: In this prospective study 65 tension free
inguinal hernia repair using lichtenstein technique were performed single handedly between June 1999 and May
2002. Intention behind this study was to observe the early and late complication specially recurrence. Result:
In my study Group , indirect inguinal hernia 39 patients (60.00%), direct inguinal hernia 21 patients (32.3%)and
bilateral 5 patients (7.7%). Mean patient age was 55 years (range 20-82 ), follow up was completed in 57 patients
(90%) by clinically examination. The median follow up period was 2.1 years (range 1-4 years). Apart from
temporary urinary retention, mild seroma and haematoma formation I have not observed any acute infection
or abscess formation or any recurrence or rejection of synthetic mash. Conclusion: Lichtenstein tension free
hernia repair is a wonderful breakthrough in the management of inguinal hernia, which is very simple, safe and
has remarkably low recurrence rate and it is my preferred choice since 1996.