Postoperative complications of inguinal hernia repair

ABSTRACT

To determine the incidence and outcome of inguinal hernia repair complications. A descriptive study Surgical unit I and V of Civil Hospital Karachi; January 1999 to December 2004. Five hundred and forty patients admitted with inguinal hernia were included in the study. Detailed history, physical examination and investigation were carried out. Patients were operated on elective operation list. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo Bassini's Repair [Group A] or Lichtenstein tension free mesh repair [Group B]. Patients were monitored after surgery for clinical signs of complications and their outcome were recorded. Patients were seen every 3 months for 2 years and then every year. Wound seroma developed in 7.1% patients in group A and 8.4% patients in group B; 3.57% patients in group A and 3.1% patients in group B developed haematoma. Abscess formation was noticed in 2.1% patients in group A and 1.9% patients in group B Urinary retention developed in 3.57% patients in group A and 4.6% patients in group B. Numbness or pain in the groin was complained by 7.1% patients in group A and 10% patients in group B .Recurrence developed in Twenty [7.1%] patients in group A and 2[0.8%] patients in group B. In most patients the average hospital stay was 4 days. Postoperative complication, morbidity and mortality can be reduced by monitored training of residents during early learning period and availability of senior surgeon help in difficulties