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.