Mesh fixation vs. non-fixation in total extra peritoneal mesh hernioplasty.

OBJECTIVE

To compare mesh fixation with non-fixation and its effect on outcome.

METHODS

The interventional prospective study was conducted at the National Hospital & Medical Centre, Lahore from January 2007 to December 2008. After the two-year intervention period, the patients were followed up for 5 years. The selected patients were divided into two groups. In group 1, mesh fixation was performed with metal non-absorbable tackers and in group II no fixation of mesh was performed. Patients were followed up at 6, 12, 24 and 60 months.

RESULTS

Of the 63 patients in the study, 32(50.7%) were in group I and 31(49.2% in group II. The Mean pain score in group I was 4.7±0.683 and 4.1±0.860 in group II (p< 0.001). Urinary retention was more common in group 1 (p>0.05), while recurrence was more common in group II (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Pain was significantly less in the non-fixation group, while urinary retention and recurrence were not significantly increased. Non-fixation is a viable option for total extraperitoneal mesh hernioplasty and should be preferred over mesh fixation.