Lichtenstein repair for giant inguinoscrotal hernia: a retrospective case-control study

Giant inguinoscrotal hernia (GISH) is a rare condition in high-income regions, and the management presents a significant challenge for surgeons. A retrospective analysis was conducted of a single center's experience in treating GISH by Lichtenstein approach. The objective was to gain insight into the characteristics of GISH and assess the clinical efficacy of the Lichtenstein approach, as well as the degree of improvement in patient quality of life (QoL).

Data from consecutive GISH patients who had undergone Lichtenstein repair at our institution from December 2018 to December 2023 were prospectively collected. The control group for the 1:2 matched case-control study was selected from pure inguinal hernia patients who underwent Lichtenstein repair during the same period. The demographics and surgical characteristics were analyzed. QoL and surgical satisfaction were respectively evaluated using the Carolina Comfort Scale and Numerical Rating Scale.

A total of 51 patients with GISH who underwent Lichtenstein repair were identified, and 102 patients with a pure inguinal hernia who underwent Lichtenstein repair were included in the control group. Patients in the GISH group exhibited a higher BMI than those in the control group; they also had a significantly longer hernia duration and a higher incidence of irreducible bulge. Additionally, the GISH patients had significantly higher ASA scores. All the Lichtenstein procedures were uneventful. There were more additional surgical procedures in GISH group, including hernia sac resection in 50 patients (98%) and adhesion release in 23 patients (45.1%). Five patients with GISH underwent omentectomy and one patient underwent testicular resection due to severe adhesions. The GISH group exhibited a higher incidence of postoperative complications. Five patients experienced urinary retention, and one intestinal obstruction. Two patients underwent surgical drainage under local anesthesia at one month postoperatively and made a full recovery. At six months postoperatively, the mean CCS score for the patients was 0.5 ± 0.8, with 21 patients (20.6%) scoring ≥ 2 out of the 23 categories. The results of the surgical satisfaction survey indicated that 130 patients (85.0%) gave a score of 5, reflecting high levels of satisfaction after Lichtenstein hernioplasty.

Patients with GISH typically have a long medical history, a high proportion of irreducible masses, and severe comorbidities, making surgery challenging. However, Lichtenstein repair remains a feasible and safe with high patient satisfaction and improved postoperative quality of life.