[Repair of primary inguinal hernia: Lichtenstein versus Shouldice techniques. Prospective randomized study of pain and hospital costs]

Abstract

Introduction: Hernia is one of the most widely studied processes, and the search for excellence has become the final aim. However, many controversies remain to be resolved. The objective of the present study was to analyze postoperative pain and costs using two techniques of primary inguinal hernia repair.

Patients and method: We performed a prospective, randomized study of 54 patients who underwent surgical repair of inguinal hernia through either the Lichtenstein or the Shouldice technique between June 2001 and May 2002. The following variables were analyzed: age, location and type of hernia, evaluation of tolerance to local anesthesia, surgical technique, operating time, pain at days 1, 3 and 5 after surgery, analgesic consumption, days until driving could be resumed, days off work, and occupation.

Results: The patient groups were similar, with no significant differences in age, location or type of hernia. For Lichtenstein hernioplasty, operating time was lower (p < 0.01); pain evaluation showed no significant differences on days 1 and 3 after surgery but was higher on day 5 (p = 0.064). No significant differences were found in analgesic consumption, time before driving could be resumed, or days off work. Freelance patients returned to work earlier, independently of the surgical technique performed. The cost of the Lichtenstein technique was 235 euros compared with 180 euros for the Shouldice technique and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: In the hands of expert surgeons, the Shouldice technique is the procedure of choice in the repair of primary hernias. The results are just as satisfactory as those obtained with Lichtenstein hernioplasty and hospital costs are lower.