Randomized clinical trial of Lichtenstein patch or Prolene Hernia System for inguinal hernia repair
J Vironen1, J Nieminen, A Eklund
1Helsinki University Central Hospital, Jorvi Hospital, Turuntie 150, 02740 Espoo, Finland. jaana.vironen@hus.fi
Background:
In this randomized prospective study the short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair with either Lichtenstein mesh or the Prolene Hernia System (PHS) were evaluated.
Methods:
Postoperative pain and time to return to work, driving and sporting hobbies were recorded after 300 inguinal hernia repairs done by one of the two methods. Long-term sequelae and complications were assessed at follow-up visits 1 week, 1 month and 1 year after the operation.
Results:
The median duration of operation for unilateral primary hernia was 37 min for the Lichtenstein operation and 27 min for the PHS procedure (P < 0.001). Postoperative pain was similar after both operations. Median sick leave was 7 days in both groups. Time to driving a car was 4 versus 3 days, and time to return to sporting hobbies 13 versus 11 days, in the Lichtenstein and PHS groups, respectively. Apart from a residual femoral hernia after Lichtenstein repair, no recurrent inguinal hernias were detected.
Conclusion:
Both Lichtenstein and PHS methods resulted in rapid recovery and low recurrence rates. The PHS operation was significantly quicker.
