Three-year follow-up of modified Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty using lightweight poliglecaprone/polypropylene mesh.

BACKGROUND: This prospective cohort study evaluated whether partially absorbable monofilament mesh could influence postoperative pain and time of the return to normal activity while not increasing recurrence in modified Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty.

METHODS: Two hundred and forty-two patients were operated on using poliglecaprone/polypropylene mesh. A modified Lichtenstein technique was used (more stitches and larger margin of mesh on the inguinal ligament, additional suture near the pubic bone). Follow-up data were collected at 3 years. The objective was to assess the incidence of late persistent postoperative pain and the recurrence rate.

RESULTS: The follow-up rate reached 88.37%. The recurrence rate was 2.2% (four patients). All recurrences appeared within the first 12 months. Slight discomfort, feelings of stiffness, and the occasional appearance of foreign bodies that did not influence daily activity were noted in 20 patients (10.8%). Chronic pain was found in 22 patients (11.1%), but only affected the daily activities of seven (3.24%). Only one patient suffering from pain described it as stronger than before the operation.

CONCLUSIONS: The use of partially absorbable light mesh reduces postoperative pain at long-term follow-up. The recurrence rate was not increased at 36 months follow-up.