Sutureless hernioplasty with light-weight mesh and fibrin glue versus Lichtenstein procedure: a comparison of outcomes focusing on chronic postoperative pain

Abstract PURPOSE: Groin hernia is one of the most common disease requiring surgical intervention (8-10% of the male population). Nowadays, the application of prosthetic materials (mesh) is the technique most widely used in hernia repair. Although they are simple and rapid to perform, and lower the risk of recurrence, these techniques may lead to complications. The aim of the present study is to assess the incidence and degree of chronic pain, as well as the impairment in daily life, in two procedures: (1) the "Lichtenstein technique" with polypropylene mesh fixed with non-absorbable suture, and (2) the "sutureless" technique carried out by using a partially absorbable mesh (light-weight mesh) fastened with fibrin glue. METHODS: This was a study conducted over a period of 3 years from July 2006 to July 2009. A total of 148 consecutive male patients suffering from groin hernia were divided randomly into two groups: (1) Group A: patients operated with "sutureless" technique with partially absorbable mesh and plug fastened with 1 ml haemostatic sealant; (2) Group B: patients operated with Lichtenstein technique using non-absorbable mesh and plug anchored with polypropylene suture. Follow-up took place after 7 days, and 1, 6 and 12 months and consisted of examining and questioning patients about chronic pain as well as the amount of time required to return to their normal daily activities. RESULTS: No major complications or mortality were observed in either group. In group A there was a faster return to work and daily life activities. Six patients (7.8%) in group B suffered from chronic pain, whereas no patient in group A demonstrated this feature. CONCLUSIONS: Our experience shows that the combined use of light-weight mesh and fibrin glue gives significantly better results in terms of postoperative pain and return to daily life.