Comparative study of postoperative complications of Lichtenstein Tension Free Repair and Pure Tissue Repairs like Modified Bassini or Shouldice at Nishtar Hospital Multan

Abstract

The objective of this study is to compare the postoperative complications of Lichtenstein tension free repair and pure tissue repairs like modified Bassini or Shouldice. This was an interventional (quasi experimental) study. This study was carried out on 100 patients having primary inguinal hernia. After taking detail history, examination and necessary investigations, only tit patients were included in the study and rest were excluded. A separate file was maintained for each patient to note the complication rate of different hernia`s repairs. Patients in group I underwent modified Bassini (35%) and Shouldice repair (15%). Patients in group II underwent Lichtenstein repair (50%).30 (30%) complications were observed. Out of these 23(23%) were in group I and 7(7%) were in group II. All were managed conservatively. The main complications were wound hematoma (9%), Wound infection (3%), scrotal edema (1%), postoperative neuralgia (6%), retention of urine (8%) and recurrence (3%). Wound infection, wound hematoma and recurrence were seen more in group I. Post operative neuralgia was more common in group II. Although follow up was for a shorter period of time and complications like recurrence and post operative neuralgia could not be assessed accurately. It was concluded that Lichtenstein tension free repair is simple and effective method of repairing inguinal hernia, with low complication rates and low recurrence rate. The method is much easier and should be considered in majority of patients with inguinal hernia.