[Inguinal herniotomy--which kind of anesthesia? Economical considerations]

Economical aspects of three different types of anaesthesia for inguinal hernia repair are discussed on the basis of relevant papers and economical estimates. Infiltration anaesthesia is found to be less expensive than both spinal and general anaesthesia. The reduction in cost is mainly based on a reduced demand for observation facilities during and after the operation as well as for preoperative evaluation. Early postoperative analgesia is improved after inguinal field block. Urinary retention is seen with a reduced frequency after inguinal field block. The risk of wound complication seems unrelated to the type of anaesthesia. The risk of serious complications related to anaesthesia (i.e. aspiration pneumonitis and significant circulatory events) is probably lower after infiltration anaesthesia. It is recommended that infiltration anaesthesia be employed for hernia repair.