Abstract
Objective
To asses the out come of Lichtenstein mesh repair of inguinal hernias with special
reference to postoperative complications and recurrence rate.
Method
This prospective cohort study was carried out at Ziauddin Medical University Hospital,
Karachi and Isra University Hospital, Hyderabad over a period of four years from March
2002 to February 2006. All patients above the age of 18 or more with inguinal hernia
were included in this study. Recurrent inguinal hernias, obstructed inguinal hernia and
patients with cirrhosis/ascites were excluded from the study. Post operative complications
and recurrence rates were noted.
Results
Ninety three patients were studied. Scrotal hematoma and surgical site infection were the
most common early complications followed by wound haematoma and seroma formation.
There was no recurrence during one year of follow-up. About 4.3% patients had
moderate to severe groin pain affecting their daily activities.
Conclusion
Lichtenstein mesh repair of inguinal hernia is associated with very low morbidity rate.
(Rawal Med J 2009;34: ).

Key words: Lichtenstein, mesh, inguinal hernia.