Beneficial effect of inguinal hernioplasty on testicular perfusion and sexual function

To evaluate the effects of Lichtenstein tension-free inguinal hernioplasty on sexual function and generic quality of life, testicular volume, and perfusion.

In a prospective study, testicular volume, testicular perfusion, sexual function, generic quality of life, chronic inguinal pain, and groin sepsis were investigated before and 3 and 9 months after surgical hernia repair.

Forty male patients completed this study. No differences in testicular volume or in peak systolic velocity were observed between the hernia and healthy sides of the body (P > 0.05). Preoperatively, there was a significantly higher end diastolic velocity (P < 0.04) and resistive index (P < 0.001) on the hernia side compared with the normal side; these elevations returned to normal postoperatively. Three months postoperative, the studied sexual function domains, except orgasm domain, and total sexual score presented significant improvement (P(s) < 0.05 and 0.001 respectively). By the end of the study, the mean total sexual score and the number of patients with enhanced total score had showed further clinical progress. The total generic quality-of-life score, general health perception and physical function, vitality, and social domains were statistically recovered at 3 months postoperative (P < 0.05), with further improvement in total score at 9 months. Two patients developed superficial groin sepsis, and seven (17.5%) experienced chronic inguinal pain.

Inguinal hernia impaired testicular perfusion that improved postoperatively. Lichtenstein tension-free hernioplasty improved sexual function and generic quality of life without adverse mesh effects on testicular volume or perfusion.