Comparing Early Outcomes using Non Absorbable Polypropylene Mesh and Partially Absorbable Composite Mesh through Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal Repair of Inguinal Hernia.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic hernia repair is in vogue in the present era. Both the operating surgeon and the patient are concerned about the postoperative inguinodynia which has now replaced recurrence as the predominant factor affecting quality of life.

AIM: Our study aimed to compare early postoperative outcomes with the standard non absorbablepolypropylene and the newer partially absorbable composite meshes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 patients with unilateral uncomplicated inguinal hernia were included in the study and randomly divided into two groups, one each for one kind of mesh. Patients underwent Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) repair of hernia after taking written informed consent. Follow up was done in the immediate postoperative period and at three months. Patients were compared for inguinodynia, sensation of heaviness, seroma/haematoma formation and return to work activities. Standard statistical tests were applied and a p-value <0.05 was taken as significant.

RESULTS: Patients in the composite group complain of significantly less pain as compared to those with the non absorbable mesh at three months (p-value 0.003). They also report less sensation of heaviness over the groin area. However, incidence of seroma formation was higher in the composite group (20%) when compared to the non absorbable group (6.67%). An earlier return to work was seen in the patients with composite mesh.

CONCLUSION: Use of composite mesh in TAPP is associated with better patient outcomes in terms of less postoperative pain and an earlier return to work.