A Comparative Study of the Advantage of Non-Fixation versus Fixation of Mesh in Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP) Repair of Inguinal Hernias at a Tertiary centre

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery (LIHS) is the recommended procedure for bilateral and recurrent inguinal hernias (IH) while it is one of the options dealing with unilateral inguinal hernias. Aims and objectives: To evaluate the outcome of fixation versus non-fixation of mesh in Totally Extra Peritoneal (TEP).
Materials and Methods: All patients admitted in General surgical Ward/unit either through OPD or emergency, presenting with uncomplicated unilateral inguinal hernias were included. A total of 120 patients were included in the study, 60 patients underwent TEP repair without fixation of mesh and in remaining 60 patients mesh was fixed using metallic tacks.
Results: The mean age of the patient was 45.05 ± 16.50 years and 44.98 ± 15.85 years in the fixation and non-fixation group, respectively. 41.66% of the cases among the fixation and 35% in non-fixation of mesh in laparoscopic TEP repair of inguinal hernia were above 50 years of age respectively.
Conclusion: We observed that postoperative chronic pain is less likely to develop in patients who undergo Totally Extra Peritoneal (TEP) repair without mesh fixation; moreover, even when chronic pain does develop in such patients, their pain will be mild and unlikely to necessitate re-exploration