Publication:

Study of testicular perfusion after Lichtenstein hernioplasty in uncomplicated inguinal hernia

Background Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the world. The aim is to achieve a recurrence free hernia repair with minimum of complications. In mesh inguinal hernia repair testicular cord structures are in direct contact with the mesh. Testicular ischemia usually manifests within 48-72 hours after surgery. Aims of the study was to asses any changes in perfusion of ipsilateral testis after Lichtenstein hernioplasty and establish a baseline testicular perfusion pattern in the study population. This study was conducted in the Department of Surgery for one year at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Delhi.

Methods All consenting adult male patients undergoing Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty for unilateral inguinal hernia fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A sample size of 50 was included in study.

Results In this study patients were above 18 and below 60 years of age with mean age of 43.58 years.  The paired T-test analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between pre and post-operative values of SV, DV, RI, PI and TV.

Conclusions Lichtenstein tension free mesh repair for uncomplicated inguinal hernia does not impair testicular perfusion after the procedure.