Prospective randomized controlled trial comparing Lichtenstein with modified Bassini repair of inguinal hernia

We present a prospective randomized study of 80 patients with inguinal hernia who underwent either a modified Bassini repair (n = 38) or a Lichtenstein mesh repair (n = 42). Treatment groups were matched for age, side of hernia, type of hernia and ASA grade. There was no difference in the time taken to perform the two operations: the mean time taken to perform Lichtenstein repair was 26.8 min (range 12 to 49), Bassini repair taking a mean of 27.5 min (range 9 to 51), P = 0.76. There was, however, a difference between the operating times with respect to the type of hernia present, direct hernias being the fastest to repair. Pain scores were assessed by a visual analogue scale, and there was significantly less pain in the Lichtenstein group, P = 0.028. Despite this, there was no difference between the analgesic requirements of the two groups, P = 0.073. In order to assess rehabilitation, lengths of time not working and not driving were assessed. There was no difference in either measurement, P = 0.335 and 0.467 respectively. Patients were followed up a mean of 7 weeks post-operatively (range 1 to 13 weeks). There was no significant difference between the two procedures with regard to post-operative urinary complications, wound infection or other complications. All measurements except the time taken to perform the operation were independent of the surgeon involved. The accuracy of the clinical diagnosis was also assessed, and found to be moderate, with 63% of diagnoses being correct.