Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026
Application of a New Mesh Fixation Method in Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair
Published on: December 23, 2022
Randomized clinical trial of Lichtenstein's operation versus mesh plug for inguinal hernia repair
D M Frey1, A Wildisen, C T Hamel
1Department of Surgery, Divisions of General Surgery and Surgical Research, University Hospital Basle, Basle, Switzerland.
Background:
Two of the most commonly used open prosthetic tension-free techniques for inguinal hernia repair are Lichtenstein's operation and the mesh plug repair. The technique of choice remains a subject of ongoing debate. The objective of the present investigation was to compare the two surgical procedures with respect to associated morbidity and recurrence rates.
Methods:
Five hundred and ninety-five patients with 700 primary or recurrent inguinal hernias were randomized to undergo either Lichtenstein's operation or mesh plug repair. The primary endpoint of the investigation was the recurrence rate 1 year after surgery. Secondary endpoints were perioperative complications and reoperation rates.
Results:
At 12-month follow-up, 597 hernia repairs (85.3 per cent) were evaluated. There were no significant differences regarding recurrence rates and perioperative complications. However, there was a significant difference in the overall reoperation rate between the two treatment groups, with 13 reoperations (4.2 per cent) in the Lichtenstein group and four (1.4 per cent) in the mesh plug group (P = 0.047).
Conclusion:
Lichtenstein's operation and the mesh plug repair are comparable with respect to perioperative complications and recurrence rates.