Long-term quality of life after hernioplasty using a Prolene hernia system in adult inguinal hernia.

INTRODUCTION: Most surgeons favour the use of a mesh for open inguinal hernia repair as it has a low recurrence rate. Procedures used most frequently are the Lichtenstein method, mesh plug repair and the Prolene hernia system (PHS). The choice of technique may be influenced by effects on postoperative pain and quality of life. In this retrospective study, results from inguinal hernia repair with the PHS in a regional training hospital were analysed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty primary inguinal hernias were treated with PHS. The primary endpoint was the recurrence rate. Secondary endpoints were short-term and long-term complications. Pain was evaluated by use of a visual analog scale (VAS, 0-100), and a short-form 36-item questionnaire was used to assess postoperation quality of life. All patients visited the outpatient clinic for a physical examination (100% follow up).

RESULTS: After a median follow up of 8 years, one patient was diagnosed with recurrent herniation (3.3%). Three self-limited wound discharge (10%), and one haematoma needing surgical evacuation (3.3%) were diagnosed. Two patients (6.6%) suffered from persistent pain (VAS > 40). Average VAS score was 21 (0-80) 8 years after surgery.

CONCLUSION: In a regional training hospital, primary inguinal hernias were treated with low recurrence and few complications by use of the PHS.