Short- and long-term outcomes of incarcerated inguinal hernias repaired by Lichtenstein technique

INTRODUCTION The use of tension-free inguinal hernia repair techniques using commercially available implants is now rather common. However, it is widely accepted that the use of biomaterials should be limited to non-infected surgical fields. As such, most current studies pertain to the application of various implants during the surgical repair of uncomplicated hernias. AIM To compare the short- and long-term outcomes of incarcerated inguinal hernia repair using the Lichtenstein or Bassini technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS Between 1997 and 2012, 107 patients were operated on an emergency basis due to the incarceration of inguinal hernias - 105 subjects were included for further analysis in our study. RESULTS Postoperative complications were observed in 13 out of the 84 (15.5%) patients subjected to Lichtenstein repair. In 9 of these patients (10.7%), morbidity was associated with the surgical wound. In 2 cases (2.4%), a small inflammatory infiltration was observed and resolved within a few days. Serous fluid accumulation within the wound was observed in 3 patients (3.6%), but the fluid was successfully drained by puncture. Finally, hematoma formed in 4 cases (4.8%). In total, 4 complications (19%) were recorded in the group of 21 patients who were operated on with the Bassini technique. In 3 of these cases (14.3%), the complications were related to suppuration of the surgical wound. CONCLUSIONS Polypropylene mesh may be safely implanted during the repair of incarcerated hernia and this approach is reflected by satisfactory long-term outcomes.