An Experience Comparing Inguinal Hernia Mesh Repair Vs Darn Repair

Original Article

Abstract

Background: Several methods for fixing inguinal hernias have been documented. Anterior or posterior approaches,
open or laparoscopic procedures, may be used for hernia repair. While the technique of darn repair first presented by
Moloney is still a useful treatment for inguinal hernias, polypropylene mesh repair has gained popularity lately because
of the remarkable outcomes shown by Lichtenstein. In elderly guys, inguinal hernias account for 50% of cases. Older
treatments like darn repair have become less common with modern techniques like laparoscopy and mesh for correcting
inguinal hernias. But in underdeveloped nations like Pakistan, where affordability is a top priority, the darn repair is
still well-liked and often used for inguinal hernia repairs. This research aimed to compare the early results of darned
repair with Lichtenstein repair.
Objectives: Comparing inguinal hernia mesh repair vs. Darn repair evaluates postoperative discomfort, healing,
hernia recurrence, and patient satisfaction. This informs patients and doctors about the pros and cons of each inguinal
hernia surgery.
Study design: A descriptive cross-sectional study
Duration and place of study: this study was conducted in the Surgical unit of Bacha Khan Medical Complex,
Swabi, from April 2017 to April 2018.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional research included 121 male patients, ages 18 to 60, who had been reported
for elective or emergency Mesh/Lichtenstein or indirect or direct inguinal hernias with open surgical repair between
April 2017 and April 2018. Comparing the duration of hospital stay, surgery site infection, and hernia recurrence
using various procedures was the main goal.
Results: For the patients who had Lichtenstein repair, their stay in the hospital was longer, with (5.3%) superficial
site infection and no deep wound infection, and Darn repair (3.5%) Superficial surgical site infections and 1.7% deep
infection were noted. Complications of recurrence in Lichtenstein repair were zero at 1-year follow-up compared to
Darn repair, which had a recurrence of 1.7%.
Conclusion: Compared to Darn Repair regarding the recurrence of inguinal Hernia, the results of Lichtenstein
repair are more promising.
Keywords: Darn repair, Mesh Repair, Inguinal hernia