Comparative study of mesh fixation with non-absorbable v/s delayed absorbable suture in open inguinal hernia

Abstract

Background:With attention to patient outcome after open inguinal hernia chronic inguinal region pain and discomfort are major complains due to nerve compression by sutures used for mesh fixation. Traditionally mesh is fixed with non-absorbable suture material. Objective of the study was this study planned with the objective to compare post-operative outcomes of mesh fixation with non-absorbable v/s delayed absorbable suture material.

Methods: This was prospective study conducted at Department of general surgery GMERS medical collage sola, Ahmadabad, Gujarat during the period of January 2013 to May 2014. Total 100 male patients who underwent Lichtenstein tension free inguinal hernioplasty were included in the study. Patients were divided in 2 groups each of 50 patients. In group 1 mesh fixation was done with non-absorbable suture material (proline 1-0) and in group 2 mesh fixation was done with delayed absorbable suture material (vicryl 2-0)..

Results:The development of post-operative pain was more common in in group 1 as compared to group 2. If we compare the appearance of post-operative paresthesia in both surgical groups, there was more number of patients had developed paresthesia group 1 as compared to group 2. But there was no statistical significant difference was found between two groups. There was more number of patients had developed complications group 1 as compared to group 2 barring ecchymosis which was more common in group 2. Recurrence of hernia was observed in 2 patients in group 1 while in 1 patient in group 2 without statistical significant difference (p-value: 0.56).

Conclusions: By using delayed absorbable material with Air knot in mesh fixation for Lichtenstein open inguinal herniolasty we found there is less postoperative groin pain and paraesthesia, with regards to recurrence there is no significant statistical difference in both groups therefore delayed absorbable suture material can be used safely for mesh fixation.