One-year results of a prospective, randomised clinical trial comparing four meshes in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (TAPP)

Postoperative Analgesics Score as a Predictor of Chronic Postoperative Inguinal Pain After Inguinal Hernia Repair: Lessons Learned From a Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) is a common complication after inguinal hernia surgery and occurs in up to 10-14% of cases. CPIP has a significant impact on daily life, work ability and thus compromises quality of life. The aim of this retrospective study was an in-depth analysis of patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair to further refine the prediction of the onset of CPIP reliably.

METHODS

A single center retrospective analysis of patients with who underwent open or minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair from 2016 to 2021 was carried out. Complication rates, detailed analysis of postoperative pain medication and quality of life using the EuraHS Quality of Life questionnaire were assessed.

RESULTS

Out of 596 consecutive procedures, 344 patients were included in detailed analyses. While patient cohorts were different in terms of age and co-morbidities, and the prevalence of CPIP was 12.2% without differences between the surgical procedures (Lichtenstein: 12.8%; TEP 10.9%; TAPP 13.5%). Postoperative pain was evaluated using a newly developed analgesic score. Patients who developed CPIP later had a significant higher consumption of analgesics at discharge (p = 0.016). As additional risk factors for CPIP younger patient age and postoperative complications were identified.

CONCLUSION

The prospective use of the analgesic score established here could be helpful to identify patients that are at risk to develop CPIP. These patients could benefit from a structured follow-up to allow early therapeutic intervention to prevent chronification and restore the quality of life.

Does the Weight Matter? Short-Term Outcomes of Lightweight Versus Heavyweight Three-Dimensional Anatomical Mesh in Minimally Invasive Inguinal Hernia Repair

Background: The type of mesh used in inguinal hernia repairs remains controversial. There are limited data looking at specific mesh-related complications. The objective of this study is to assess postoperative 90-day outcomes in lightweight (LW) and heavyweight (HW) anatomical mesh in minimally invasive inguinal hernia repairs. Methods: A retrospective single-center database was queried for all adult minimally invasive inguinal hernia repairs with anatomical mesh from July 2016 to March 2021. Demographics and surgical outcomes were analyzed. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were performed. Results: Six hundred forty-seven minimally invasive inguinal hernia repairs were performed with 423 (65.3%) using HW and 224 (24.7%) using LW mesh. There was no difference in mean body mass index between the groups (26.9 ± 4.2 kg/m2 in the LW group and 27.1 ± 4.2 kg/m2 in the HW group; P = .69). There was no difference in type of mesh fixation used in either group, with tacker being the most common. There was no difference in postoperative emergency department (ED) visit (P = .625), readmission rates (P = .562), or postoperative complications between the two groups. Fifty patients presented with seroma within 90 days. There were five recurrences in each group and only one surgical site infection in the LW within 90 days. Multivariate logistic regression was performed, and predictors of seroma formation included age (odds ratio [OR] 1.02; confidence interval [CI] 1-1.04; P = .02) and hypertension (HTN) (OR 1.8; CI 1.03-3.4; P = .039). HW mesh was not associated with seroma formation (OR 1.04; CI 0.5-1.9; P = .895). Similarly, HW mesh was not associated with surgical site occurrences (SSO) (OR 1.04; CI 0.5-1.8; P = .872). HTN was associated with SSO (OR 1.74; CI 1-3.05; P = .048). Conclusion: Our study did not favor the use of LW or HW mesh when comparing postoperative complications or clinical outcomes. HW mesh was not associated with either seroma formation or SSO.

Definition of Mesh Weight and Pore Size in Groin Hernia Repair: A Systematic Scoping Review of Randomised Controlled Trials

Introduction: Groin hernia literature often uses the terms light- and heavyweight and small or large pores to describe meshes. There is no universal definition of these terms, and the aim of this scoping review was to assess how mesh weight and pore sizes are defined in the groin hernia literature. Methods: In this systematic scoping review, we searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL. We included randomised controlled trials with adults undergoing groin hernia repair with the Lichtenstein or laparoscopic techniques using a flat permanent polypropylene or polyester mesh. Studies had to use the terms lightweight, mediumweight, or heavyweight to be included, and the outcome was to report how researchers defined these terms as well as pore sizes. Results: We included 48 studies with unique populations. The weight of lightweight meshes ranged from 28 to 60 g/m2 with a median of 39 g/m2, and the pore size ranged from 1.0 to 4.0 mm with a median of 1.6 mm. The weight of heavyweight meshes ranged from 72 to 116 g/m2 with a median of 88 g/m2, and the pore size ranged from 0.08 to 1.8 mm with a median of 1.0 mm. Only one mediumweight mesh was used weighing 55 g/m2 with a pore size of 0.75 mm. Conclusion: There seems to be a consensus that meshes weighing less than 60 g/m2 are defined as lightweight and meshes weighing more than 70 g/m2 are defined as heavyweight. The weight terms were used independently of pore sizes, which slightly overlapped between lightweight and heavyweight meshes.

Bone Augmentation Techniques with Customized Titanium Meshes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials

Background:

A correct tridimensional implant placement requires a sufficient amount of bone to completely satisfy the prosthetic reconstruction. Several techniques can be used to recreate the bone quantity. Among them, titanium meshes have shown great potential in space maintenance and fewer complications in case of exposure. Recently, 3D CAD, CAM technology, and specifically SLM have been used to produce customized meshes in titanium alloy. The aim Purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate new customized meshes compared to traditional ones in terms of new volume of generated bone and the incidence of complications.

Materials and Methods:

A MEDLINE/PubMed literature search was performed to find relevant randomized controlled clinical trials published in English up to and including December 2022. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and SCOPUS were also searched. The main keywords used in the search were: titanium meshe(s), customized titanium meshe(s), combined with AND/OR as Boolean operators, and bone augmentation with/and/or titanium mesh.

Results:

The electronic search identified 1002 papers in total, and after duplicate removal, 500 articles were screened. After a manual screening of the title and abstract, 488 studies were excluded, and 12 articles' full text of 12 articles was analyzed. Further analysis was performed to make sure that the articles matched the inclusion/exclusion criteria of the present review. Six additional articles were excluded in this phase. No meta-analysis was performed due to the heterogeneity of the data.

Conclusion:

By using traditional or customized devices with the newly generated bone volume allowed the implant placement in all cases. Complications were mainly reported as exposure during the healing phase, but the conclusions of whether customized or conventional systems perform one better than the other are still inconclusive.

Varying convalescence recommendations after inguinal hernia repair: a systematic scoping review

PURPOSE

The most recent international guideline on inguinal hernia management recommends a short convalescence after repair. However, surgeons' recommendations may vary. The objective of this study was to give an overview of the current convalescence recommendations in the literature subdivided on the Lichtenstein and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs.

METHODS

In this systematic review, three databases were searched in August 2021 to identify studies on inguinal hernia repairs with a statement about postoperative convalescence recommendations. The outcome was convalescence recommendations subdivided on daily activities, light work, heavy lifting, and sport.

RESULTS

In total, 91 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria, and 50 and 58 studies reported about convalescence recommendations after Lichtenstein and laparoscopic repairs, respectively. Patients were instructed with a wide range of convalescence recommendations. A total of 34 Lichtenstein studies and 35 laparoscopic studies recommended resumption of daily activities as soon as possible. Following Lichtenstein repairs, the patients were instructed to resume light work after median 0 days (interquartile range (IQR) 0-0), heavy lifting after 42 days (IQR 14-42), and sport after 7 days (IQR 0-29). Following laparoscopic procedures, the patients were instructed to resume light work after median 0 days (IQR 0-0), heavy lifting after 14 days (IQR 10-28), and sport after 12 days (IQR 7-23).

CONCLUSION

This study revealed a broad spectrum of convalescence recommendations depending on activity level following inguinal hernia repair, which likely reflects a lack of high-quality evidence within this field.

Heavyweight Mesh Is Superior to Lightweight Mesh in Laparo-endoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis aims to provide an update on the available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and recommendations on using lightweight mesh (LWM) or heavyweight mesh (HWM) in laparo-endoscopic inguinal hernia repair.

BACKGROUND

LWM might reduce chronic pain through improved mesh flexibility and less fibrosis formation. However, in laparo-endoscopic repair chronic pain is already rare and LWM raise concerns of higher recurrence rates.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in May 2019 in MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane library for RCTs that compared lightweight (≤50 g/m2) and heavyweight (>70 g/m2) mesh in patients undergoing laparo-endoscopic surgery for uncomplicated inguinal hernias. Outcomes were recurrences, chronic pain, and foreign-body sensation. The level of evidence was assessed using GRADE. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by random effect meta-analyses. Trial-sequential-analyses were subsequently performed.

RESULTS

Twelve RCTs, encompassing 2909 patients (LWM 1490 vs HWM 1419), were included. The follow-up range was 3 to 60 months. Using LWM increased the recurrence risk (LWM 32/1571, HWM 13/1508; RR 2.21; CI 1.14-4.31), especially in nonfixated mesh direct repairs (LWM 13/180, HWM 1/171; RR 7.27; CI 1.33-39.73) and/or large hernia defects. No difference was determined regarding any pain (LWM 123/1362, HWM 127/1277; RR 0.79; CI 0.52-1.20), severe pain (LWM 3/1226, HWM 9/1079; RR 0.38; CI 0.11-1.35), and foreign-body sensation (LWM 100/1074, HWM 103/913; RR 0.94; CI 0.73-1.20).

CONCLUSION

HWM should be used in laparo-endoscopic repairs of direct or large inguinal hernias to reduce recurrence rates. LWM provide no benefit in indirect hernias.

Lightweight mesh versus heavyweight mesh for laparo-endoscopic inguinal hernia repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine if the prognoses of inguinal hernia patients improved with the application of lightweight mesh (LWM).

METHODS

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library were searched for randomized controlled trails related to laparo-endoscopic inguinal hernia repair with different prosthetic meshes. Data were extracted and analyzed using the guidelines of the Cochrane handbook. The primary endpoints were recurrence and chronic postoperative inguinal pain. The second endpoints encompassed acute postoperative pain, foreign body sensation, seroma, infection, and numbness. Data were processed using Review Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

The heavyweight mesh (HWM) had a distinctive advantage for recurrence (RR 2.30; 95% CI 1.21-4.38; P = 0.01), with comparable results for postoperative pain (RR 0.91; 95% CI 0.37-2.22; P = 0.83), foreign body sensation (RR 1.18; 95% CI 0.91-1.51; P = 0.21), seroma(RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.75-1.01; P = 0.06), infection (RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.31-2.34; P = 0.75), and numbness, compared to LWM.

CONCLUSION

HWM had a distinctive advantage over LWM with regard to recurrence. The two types of prosthetic meshes had equivalent outcomes for postoperative pain, seroma, foreign body sensation, infection, and numbness. Studies focused on defect sizes and fixation methods are warranted for further stratification.

Lightweight Versus Heavyweight Mesh in Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

Background: There is no consensus on whether lightweight mesh (LWM) is better than heavyweight mesh (HWM) in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (LIHR). This study aims to update the previous reviews and to analyze present randomized controlled studies comparing LWM versus HWM in LIHR systematically. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which compared LWM with HWM in adults with LIHR. All eligible data of outcomes were quantitatively analyzed using Revman 5.3 software or qualitatively described. The outcomes included chronic pain, moderate-severe chronic pain, recurrence, foreign body sensation, influence on sexual life and male fertility (pain with ejaculation, testicular pain, etc.). Results: We included 12 RCTs that analyzed 3092 hernias. The difference between LWM and HWM groups at any follow-up time was not significant in chronic pain and foreign body sensation. Compared with HWM group, patients in LWM group had a similar risk of postoperative moderate-severe chronic pain at 3 and 12 months follow-up, a slightly increased risk of developing moderate-severe chronic pain at >12 months follow-up (risk ratio [RR] = 3.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-9.75, P = .04), and a higher risk of recurrence rate (RR = 2.28, 95% CI 1.17-4.44, P = .02). At long-term follow-up, the influences of LWM and HWM on sexual life and male fertility were comparable. Conclusion: LWMs do not show advantages in chronic pain, foreign body sensation as well as the influence on sexual life and male fertility, and may increase hernia recurrence rates for LIHR. In addition, a higher incremental cost and lower incremental effect of LWMs make conventional HWMs preferred choice for LIHR.

Primary unilateral not complicated inguinal hernia: our choice of TAPP, why, results and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Currently, three different techniques are favored for repair of an inguinal hernia: (1) The suture repair described by Shouldice. (2) An open mesh repair according to Lichtenstein. (3) Laparo-endoscopic techniques TAPP and TEP. The aim of the presented paper was to describe the ranking of the Transabdominal Preperitoneal Patch Plasty (TAPP) in comparison to the other techniques for inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

The manuscript is based on the experiences gained in more than 15,000 TAPPs and numerous own studies as well. The technique of TAPP is described in detail and also the results which can be achieved with special reference to primary unilateral inguinal hernias in male patients. Moreover, a systematic review of the literature is done for the comparison with the other techniques.

RESULTS

According to own experiences, 98% of all patients with an inguinal hernia admitted for surgery to Marienhospital Stuttgart could be operated on using the TAPP technique. The recurrence rate and the rate of severe chronic pain in this setting were below 1%. Due to the limited quality of most of the published studies an evidence-based comparison which is the best of the currently most recommended techniques is questionable. Therefore, when comparing TAPP with TEP, no definite conclusion about superiority of one technique over the other is possible. Both techniques are safe and effective if properly performed. The guidelines recommend that the surgeon should use the technique he had learned best and is familiar with. The comparison between TAPP and the Shouldice repair shows less pain and a higher effectivity after TAPP. The recurrence rate after Lichtenstein repair and after TAPP is similar, but pain and recovery time are significantly less after TAPP.

CONCLUSION

Analyzing the own abundant experiences and the reports in the literature, the TAPP technique has the potential to become the standard operative technique for repair of inguinal hernias in future. However, due to the low level of evidence of most of the studies definite conclusions are difficult to draw at this point of time.

Long-term assessment of surgical and quality-of-life outcomes between lightweight and standard (heavyweight) three-dimensional contoured mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Mesh weight is a possible contributor to quality-of-life outcomes after inguinal hernia repair. This study compares lightweight mesh versus heavyweight mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

A prospective, single-center, hernia-specific database was queried for all adult laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with three-dimensional contoured mesh (3-D Max, Bard, Inc, New Providence, NJ) from 1999 to June 2016. Demographics and outcomes were analyzed. Quality of life was evaluated preoperatively and after 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months, using the Carolinas Comfort Scale. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 1,424 laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair were performed with three-dimensional contoured mesh, with 804 patients receiving lightweight mesh and 620 receiving heavyweight mesh. Patients receiving lightweight mesh were somewhat younger (52.6 ± 14.8 years vs 56.3 ± 13.7 years, P < .0001), with slightly lower body mass indices (26.4 ± 9.9 vs 27.1 ± 4.3, P < .0001). Lightweight mesh was used less often in incarcerated hernias (12.5% vs 16.8%, P = .02). There were a total of 3 surgical site infections. There were no differences in complications between groups except for seroma. Although on univariate analysis, seromas appeared to occur more frequently with heavyweight mesh (21.5% vs 7.9%). On multivariate analysis, heavyweight mesh was not independently associated with seroma formation. Average follow-up was 20 months. Recurrence rates were similar between lightweight mesh and heavyweight mesh (0.7 vs 0.6% P > .05). At all points of follow-up (4 week to 3 years), quality-of-life outcomes of discomfort, mesh sensation, and movement limitation scores were similar between lightweight mesh and heavyweight mesh.

CONCLUSION

Contoured lightweight mesh and heavyweight mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair yield excellent recurrence rates and no difference in postoperative complications or quality of life. Considering the lack of outcome difference with long-term follow-up, heavyweight mesh may be considered for use in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair patients.

Causes of recurrence in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

PURPOSE

Recurrence after laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy is poorly understood. Reports suggest that up to 13% of all inguinal herniorrhaphies worldwide, irrespective of the approach, are repaired for recurrence. We aim to review the risk factors responsible for these recurrences in laparoscopic mesh techniques.

METHODS

A search of the Medline, Embase, Science Citation Index, Current Contents and PubMed databases identified English language, peer reviewed articles on the causes of recurrence following laparoscopic mesh inguinal herniorrhaphy published between 1990 and 2018. The search terms included 'Laparoscopic methods', 'Inguinal hernia; Mesh repair', 'Recurrence', 'Causes', 'Humans'.

RESULTS

The literature revealed several contributing risk factors that were responsible for recurrence following laparoscopic mesh inguinal herniorrhaphy. These included modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors related to patient and surgical techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrence can occur at any stage following inguinal hernia surgery. Patients' risk factors such as higher BMI, smoking, diabetes and postoperative surgical site infections increase the risk of recurrence and can be modified. Amongst the surgical factors, surgeon's experience, larger mesh with better tissue overlap and careful surgical techniques to reduce the incidence of seroma or hematoma help reduce the recurrence rate. Other factors including type of mesh and fixation of mesh have not shown any difference in the incidence of recurrence. It is hoped that future randomized controlled trials will address some of these issues and initiate preoperative management strategies to modify some of these risk factors to lower the risk of recurrence following laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy.

Cross-Linked Cholecyst-Derived Extracellular Matrix for Abdominal Wall Repair

Abdominal wall repair frequently utilizes either nondegradable or biodegradable meshes, which are found to stimulate undesirable biological tissue responses or which possess suboptimal degradation rate. In this study, a biologic mesh prototype made from carbodiimide cross-linked cholecyst-derived extracellular matrix (EDCxCEM) was compared with small intestinal submucosa (Surgisis^®), cross-linked bovine pericardium (Peri-Guard^®), and polypropylene (Prolene^®) meshes in an in vivo rabbit model. The macroscopic appearance and stereological parameters of the meshes were evaluated. Tailoring the degradation of the EDCxCEM mesh prevents untimely degradation, while allowing cellular infiltration and mesh remodeling to take place in a slower but predictable manner. The results suggest that the cross-linked biodegradable cholecyst-derived biologic mesh results in no seroma formation, low adhesion, and moderate stretching of the mesh. In contrast to Surgisis, Peri-Guard, and Prolene meshes, the EDCxCEM mesh showed a statistically significant increase in the volume fraction (V_v) of collagen (from 34% to 52.1%) in the central fibrous tissue region at both day 28 and 56. The statistically high length density (L_v), of blood vessels for the EDCxCEM mesh at 28 days was reflected also by the higher cellular activity (high V_v of fibroblast and moderate V_v of nuclei) indicating remodeling of this region in the vicinity of a slowly degrading EDCxCEM mesh. The lack of mesh area stretching/shrinkage in the EDCxCEM mesh showed that the remodeled tissue was adequate to prevent hernia formation. The stereo-histological assays suggest that the EDCxCEM delayed degradation profile supports host wound healing processes including collagen formation, cellular infiltration, and angiogenesis. The use of cross-linked CEM for abdominal wall repair is promising.

International guidelines for groin hernia management

INTRODUCTION

Worldwide, more than 20 million patients undergo groin hernia repair annually. The many different approaches, treatment indications and a significant array of techniques for groin hernia repair warrant guidelines to standardize care, minimize complications, and improve results. The main goal of these guidelines is to improve patient outcomes, specifically to decrease recurrence rates and reduce chronic pain, the most frequent problems following groin hernia repair. They have been endorsed by all five continental hernia societies, the International Endo Hernia Society and the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery.

METHODS

An expert group of international surgeons (the HerniaSurge Group) and one anesthesiologist pain expert was formed. The group consisted of members from all continents with specific experience in hernia-related research. Care was taken to include surgeons who perform different types of repair and had preferably performed research on groin hernia surgery. During the Group's first meeting, evidence-based medicine (EBM) training occurred and 166 key questions (KQ) were formulated. EBM rules were followed in complete literature searches (including a complete search by The Dutch Cochrane database) to January 1, 2015 and to July 1, 2015 for level 1 publications. The articles were scored by teams of two or three according to Oxford, SIGN and Grade methodologies. During five 2-day meetings, results were discussed with the working group members leading to 136 statements and 88 recommendations. Recommendations were graded as "strong" (recommendations) or "weak" (suggestions) and by consensus in some cases upgraded. In the Results and summary section below, the term "should" refers to a recommendation. The AGREE II instrument was used to validate the guidelines. An external review was performed by three international experts. They recommended the guidelines with high scores. The risk factors for inguinal hernia (IH) include: family history, previous contra-lateral hernia, male gender, age, abnormal collagen metabolism, prostatectomy, and low body mass index. Peri-operative risk factors for recurrence include poor surgical techniques, low surgical volumes, surgical inexperience and local anesthesia. These should be considered when treating IH patients. IH diagnosis can be confirmed by physical examination alone in the vast majority of patients with appropriate signs and symptoms. Rarely, ultrasound is necessary. Less commonly still, a dynamic MRI or CT scan or herniography may be needed. The EHS classification system is suggested to stratify IH patients for tailored treatment, research and audit. Symptomatic groin hernias should be treated surgically. Asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic male IH patients may be managed with "watchful waiting" since their risk of hernia-related emergencies is low. The majority of these individuals will eventually require surgery; therefore, surgical risks and the watchful waiting strategy should be discussed with patients. Surgical treatment should be tailored to the surgeon's expertise, patient- and hernia-related characteristics and local/national resources. Furthermore, patient health-related, life style and social factors should all influence the shared decision-making process leading up to hernia management. Mesh repair is recommended as first choice, either by an open procedure or a laparo-endoscopic repair technique. One standard repair technique for all groin hernias does not exist. It is recommended that surgeons/surgical services provide both anterior and posterior approach options. Lichtenstein and laparo-endoscopic repair are best evaluated. Many other techniques need further evaluation. Provided that resources and expertise are available, laparo-endoscopic techniques have faster recovery times, lower chronic pain risk and are cost effective. There is discussion concerning laparo-endoscopic management of potential bilateral hernias (occult hernia issue). After patient consent, during TAPP, the contra-lateral side should be inspected. This is not suggested during unilateral TEP repair. After appropriate discussions with patients concerning results tissue repair (first choice is the Shouldice technique) can be offered. Day surgery is recommended for the majority of groin hernia repair provided aftercare is organized. Surgeons should be aware of the intrinsic characteristics of the meshes they use. Use of so-called low-weight mesh may have slight short-term benefits like reduced postoperative pain and shorter convalescence, but are not associated with better longer-term outcomes like recurrence and chronic pain. Mesh selection on weight alone is not recommended. The incidence of erosion seems higher with plug versus flat mesh. It is suggested not to use plug repair techniques. The use of other implants to replace the standard flat mesh in the Lichtenstein technique is currently not recommended. In almost all cases, mesh fixation in TEP is unnecessary. In both TEP and TAPP it is recommended to fix mesh in M3 hernias (large medial) to reduce recurrence risk. Antibiotic prophylaxis in average-risk patients in low-risk environments is not recommended in open surgery. In laparo-endoscopic repair it is never recommended. Local anesthesia in open repair has many advantages, and its use is recommended provided the surgeon is experienced in this technique. General anesthesia is suggested over regional in patients aged 65 and older as it might be associated with fewer complications like myocardial infarction, pneumonia and thromboembolism. Perioperative field blocks and/or subfascial/subcutaneous infiltrations are recommended in all cases of open repair. Patients are recommended to resume normal activities without restrictions as soon as they feel comfortable. Provided expertise is available, it is suggested that women with groin hernias undergo laparo-endoscopic repair in order to decrease the risk of chronic pain and avoid missing a femoral hernia. Watchful waiting is suggested in pregnant women as groin swelling most often consists of self-limited round ligament varicosities. Timely mesh repair by a laparo-endoscopic approach is suggested for femoral hernias provided expertise is available. All complications of groin hernia management are discussed in an extensive chapter on the topic. Overall, the incidence of clinically significant chronic pain is in the 10-12% range, decreasing over time. Debilitating chronic pain affecting normal daily activities or work ranges from 0.5 to 6%. Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) is defined as bothersome moderate pain impacting daily activities lasting at least 3 months postoperatively and decreasing over time. CPIP risk factors include: young age, female gender, high preoperative pain, early high postoperative pain, recurrent hernia and open repair. For CPIP the focus should be on nerve recognition in open surgery and, in selected cases, prophylactic pragmatic nerve resection (planned resection is not suggested). It is suggested that CPIP management be performed by multi-disciplinary teams. It is also suggested that CPIP be managed by a combination of pharmacological and interventional measures and, if this is unsuccessful, followed by, in selected cases (triple) neurectomy and (in selected cases) mesh removal. For recurrent hernia after anterior repair, posterior repair is recommended. If recurrence occurs after a posterior repair, an anterior repair is recommended. After a failed anterior and posterior approach, management by a specialist hernia surgeon is recommended. Risk factors for hernia incarceration/strangulation include: female gender, femoral hernia and a history of hospitalization related to groin hernia. It is suggested that treatment of emergencies be tailored according to patient- and hernia-related factors, local expertise and resources. Learning curves vary between different techniques. Probably about 100 supervised laparo-endoscopic repairs are needed to achieve the same results as open mesh surgery like Lichtenstein. It is suggested that case load per surgeon is more important than center volume. It is recommended that minimum requirements be developed to certify individuals as expert hernia surgeon. The same is true for the designation "Hernia Center". From a cost-effectiveness perspective, day-case laparoscopic IH repair with minimal use of disposables is recommended. The development and implementation of national groin hernia registries in every country (or region, in the case of small country populations) is suggested. They should include patient follow-up data and account for local healthcare structures. A dissemination and implementation plan of the guidelines will be developed by global (HerniaSurge), regional (international societies) and local (national chapters) initiatives through internet websites, social media and smartphone apps. An overarching plan to improve access to safe IH surgery in low-resource settings (LRSs) is needed. It is suggested that this plan contains simple guidelines and a sustainability strategy, independent of international aid. It is suggested that in LRSs the focus be on performing high-volume Lichtenstein repair under local anesthesia using low-cost mesh. Three chapters discuss future research, guidelines for general practitioners and guidelines for patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The HerniaSurge Group has developed these extensive and inclusive guidelines for the management of adult groin hernia patients. It is hoped that they will lead to better outcomes for groin hernia patients wherever they live. More knowledge, better training, national audit and specialization in groin hernia management will standardize care for these patients, lead to more effective and efficient healthcare and provide direction for future research.

Risk factors of chronic pain after inguinal hernia repair: a systematic review

Introduction

Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) is the most common complication after inguinal hernia operation. Eighteen percent (range, 0.7%-75%) of patients suffered from CPIP after open inguinal hernia repair and 6% (range, 1%-16%) reported CPIP after laparoendoscopic groin hernia repair. The incidence of clinically significant CPIP with impact on daily activities ranged between 10% and 12%. Debilitating CPIP with severe impact on normal daily activities or work was reported in 0.5%-6% of the cases.

Materials and methods

PubMed, Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Database were searched for studies on risk factors for chronic pain after open and endoscopic hernia repair. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluations (GRADE) methodology.

Results

Risk factors for CPIP with strong evidence include female gender, young age, high intensity of preoperative pain, high early postoperative pain intensity, history of chronic pain other than CPIP, operation for a recurrent hernia, and open repair technique. Risk factors for CPIP with moderate evidence include postoperative complications, neurolysis, and preservation of the ilioinguinal nerve in Lichtenstein repair. Risk factors for CPIP with low evidence include genetic predisposition (DQB1*03:02 HLA haplotype), lower preoperative optimism, high pain intensity to tonic heat stimulation, inadequate suture/staple/clip mesh fixation, ignorance of the inguinal nerves, less experienced surgeon, sensory dysfunction in the groin, and worker's compensation.

Conclusion

Detailed knowledge of the risk factors, meticulous operative technique with profound knowledge of the anatomy, proper nerve identification and handling, optimization of prosthetic materials, and careful fixation are of utmost importance for the prevention of CPIP.

A prospective randomised controlled trial comparing chronic groin pain and quality of life in lightweight versus heavyweight polypropylene mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

The aim of our study was to compare chronic groin pain and quality of life (QOL) after laparoscopic lightweight (LW) and heavyweight (HW) mesh repair for groin hernia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and forty adult patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernia were randomised into HW mesh group or LW mesh group. Return to activity, chronic groin pain and recurrence rates were assessed. Short form-36 v2 health survey was used for QOL analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-one completed follow-up of 3 months, 66 in HW mesh group and 65 in LW mesh group. Early post-operative convalescence was better in LW mesh group in terms of early return to walking (P = 0.01) and driving (P = 0.05). The incidence of early post-operative pain, chronic groin pain and QOL and recurrences were comparable.

CONCLUSION

Outcomes following laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using HW and LW mesh are comparable in the short-term as well as long-term.

Pain after totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia repair might fade out within a year

BACKGROUND

The incidence of chronic pain after endoscopic hernia repair varies between 1 and 16 %. Studies regarding the course of pain in time after the operation are scarce.

METHODS

473 male patients ≥18 years of age, scheduled for totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia repair (Prolene® mesh) between March 2010 and August 2012 were requested to record pain symptoms preoperative, and 1 day, 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months and 1 year postoperatively and visit the outpatient department 3 months and 1 year postoperatively for a standardized interview and physical examination.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, 25 % (n = 114) of the patients had moderate-to-severe pain (NRS 4-10). Six weeks postoperatively, 3 % (n = 12) of the patients still experienced moderate-to-severe pain. Three months after TEP, only 3 patients (0.6 %) had moderate-to-severe pain, while 83 patients (18 %) experienced mild pain. One year after TEP, 39 patients experienced mild pain (8 %) and 3 patients moderate pain (0.7 %), no patients experienced severe pain after 1 year. Patients with moderate-to-severe pain preoperatively had a higher risk of pain persisting until 3 months and 1 year postoperatively (p = 0.03). In most patients who had pain 3 months postoperatively and were pain-free 1 year after TEP, pain 'faded out' at 4-6 months postoperatively. Two patients had a not-painful recurrent hernia, diagnosed 2 and 5 months after TEP repair.

CONCLUSION

Moderate-to-severe pain after TEP hernia repair is self-limiting, with less than 1 % of the patients reporting moderate pain 1 year postoperatively.

Clinical Implantation with the novel D-13 prosthesis for inguinal hernioplasty: A retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Using a mesh to repair inguinal hernias is now a standard procedure that is widely accepted as superior to primary suture repair. Although a variety of meshes are available, individual meshes may have their own unattractive features. This retrospective study examines the efficacy of our originally designed D-13 prosthesis, which is used in patients with inguinal hernias.

METHODS

A total of 305 patients who underwent a herniorrhaphy between January 2009 and March 2011 were included in this study. The recurrent rate, chronic pain and feeling of a foreign body were examined at a 3-year follow-up. The D-13 prosthesis, made from clear polypropylene monofilament mesh, was originally designed by the first author of this study and constructed with the upper and lower pieces of polypropylene mesh having different shapes and sizes. Both pieces are linked together by a connector.

RESULTS

The mesh is well tolerated. At a 3-year follow-up, only two patients had a foreign body sensation at the operative site, and three patients had recurrent hernias.

CONCLUSION

The unique design of the D-13 prosthesis with two pieces of mesh provided encouraging long-term outcome for hernia recurrence, chronic pain and the feeling of a foreign body.

Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix Combined with a Component Separation Technique for Repair of Contaminated Large Ventral Hernias: A Possible Ideal Solution for this Clinical Challenge

Repair of large contaminated ventral hernias is always challenging because of massive loss of muscular and fascial tissues, high risk of surgical infection and recurrence, and contraindication to use of a permanent prosthesis. This study reviewed retrospectively data of 35 patients with contaminated large ventral hernias who received repair using acellular dermal matrix combined with a component separation technique from 2009 to 2011. Twenty-one males and 14 females were identified with a mean age of 45.5 ± 12.5 years and a mean body mass index of 22.5 ± 5.8 kg/m2. Simultaneously, nine patients underwent bowel fistula resection, 13 patients underwent ostomy takedown, five patients underwent recurrent colon cancer dissection, and eight patients underwent infectious permanent mesh removal and wound débridement. Mean defect size was 125.0 ± 23.5 cm2. The aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle was transected and separated from internal oblique muscle to reach abdominal closure. A cellular dermal matrix was placed in an onlay fashion and mean mesh size was 300.0 ± 65.0 cm2. Thirty-five patients had a mean follow-up period of 36.5 ± 12.5 months. Wound bleeding and partial dehiscence occurred at 36 hours post-operatively. Five patients reported abdominal wall pain during the first postoperative month. Five patients developed surgical site infection. Four patients were detected to develop seroma with volume more than 20 mL by B-ultrasound examination. No recurrence and chronic foreign body sensation were followed up. Use of acellular dermal matrix combined with a component separation technique is safe and efficient management for repair of contaminated large ventral hernia, in which permanent prosthesis placement is contraindicated.

[Recurrence after hernia surgery: complication or natural course?]

Recurrence after hernia surgery remains a relevant measure of surgical quality. In order to correctly assess the recurrence rate the surgeon needs to distinguish clinical relevant recurrence, clinically irrelevant recurrence and pseudo-recurrence. Current surgical techniques for inguinal hernia repair using mesh are associated with a low rate of recurrence. Thus, recurrence after inguinal hernia surgery is seen as a surgical complication. Conversely, the recurrence rate for large incisional hernias remains above 10 % and in rare cases a recurrence might represent the natural course. Recurrent hernia can depend on the indication, choice of operation and surgical technique. Therefore, postoperative hernia recurrence probably does not represent the natural course but rather a surgical complication that needs to be prevented by an optimized surgical technique.

Cost-utility analysis comparing heavy-weight and light-weight mesh in laparoscopic surgery for unilateral inguinal hernias

BACKGROUND

Hernioplasty is one of the most frequent surgeries in the UK. Light-weight mesh (LWM) has the potential to reduce chronic groin pain but its cost-effectiveness compared with heavy-weight mesh (HWM) is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to conduct a cost-utility analysis between laparoscopic hernioplasty with HWM and LWM for unilateral inguinal hernias.

METHODS

A Markov model simulated costs and health outcomes over a period of 1 year (2012) from the societal and National Health Service (NHS) perspective (England). The main outcome was cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. Surgery results were gleaned from the randomized control trial by Bittner et al. Other input parameters were drawn from the literature and public sources of the NHS.

RESULTS

From the societal perspective, LWM induces lower incremental costs (-£88.85) than HWM but yields a slightly smaller incremental effect (-0.00094 QALYs). The deterministic incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for HWM compared with LWM amounts to £94,899 per QALY, while the probabilistic ICER is £118,750 (95 % confidence interval [CI] £57,603-180,920). Owing to the withdrawal of productivity losses from the NHS perspective, LWM causes higher incremental costs (£13.09) and an inferior incremental effect (-0.00093), resulting in a dominance of HWM over LWM (ICER 95 % CI -£12,382 to -£21,590).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no support for the adoption of LWM as standard treatment from an NHS perspective. However, given the small differences between HWM and LWM, LWM has at least the potential of improving patient outcomes and reducing expenditure from the societal perspective.

Open inguinal hernia repair with the use of polyglycolic acid/trimethylene carbonate mesh: gross and pathologic assessment of the inguinal area at reoperation for recurrence

PURPOSE

Our group tried to test the hypothesis of using a totally absorbable material for open inguinal hernia repair. However, the increased incidence of recurrences alleviated our initial enthusiasm regarding the technique. The purpose of the present study was to attain both gross and microscopic data that could at least in part justify the hernia repair failure from a patient included in our initial pilot study and was re-operated for recurrence.

METHODS

A 65-year-old male patient was diagnosed clinically with a recurrence 24 months after open inguinal hernia repair with the use of polyglycolic acid/trimethylene carbonate mesh. The patient was operated for the recurrence upon our group on July 2012. The gross appearance of the inguinal area as well as the degree of chronic inflammation provoked by the used mesh as depicted by the pathologic analysis of specimens obtained intraoperatively were assessed.

RESULTS

An open tension-free repair with the use of a non-absorbable mesh under spinal anesthetic was undertaken. Intraoperatively, after the division of the external oblique aponeurosis, only minor fibrotic reaction was observed a finding that was additionally confirmed pathologically.

CONCLUSION

Polyglycolic acid/trimethylene carbonate mesh used for inguinal hernia repair was associated with a minimal inflammatory host reaction in the inguinal area at 3 years verified both grossly and microscopically.

A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the effectiveness of lightweight mesh against heavyweight mesh in influencing the incidence of chronic groin pain following laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair

BACKGROUND

A systematic analysis was conducted of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing lightweight mesh (LWM) with heavyweight mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

Data extracted from the included RCTs were analyzed according to the principles of meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven RCTs encompassing 2,189 patients were analyzed. In a fixed-effects model, operating time, postoperative pain, and recurrence rate were statistically similar between LWM and heavyweight mesh. LWM was associated with fewer perioperative complications and a reduced risk for developing chronic groin pain. There was also a reduced risk for developing other groin symptoms, such as foreign body sensations, but it was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of LWM for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is not associated with an increased risk for hernia recurrence. LWM reduces the incidence of chronic groin pain, groin stiffness, and foreign body sensations. Therefore, LWM may routinely be used in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. However, high-quality RCTs with longer follow-up periods are required to validate these findings.

A single-surgeon randomized trial comparing three meshes in lichtenstein hernia repair: 2- and 5-year outcome of recurrences and chronic pain

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain may be a major long-term problem related to mesh material and operative trauma in inguinal hernioplasty.

STUDY DESIGN

Lichtenstein hernioplasty was performed under local anaesthesia in 312 patients by the same surgeon and technique between 2003 and 2005. The patients were randomized to receive a partly absorbable polypropylene-polyglactin mesh (Vypro II(®) 50 g/m(2), 104 hernias), a lightweight polypropylene mesh (Premilene Mesh LP(®) 55 g/m(2), 107 hernias) or a conventional densely woven polypropylene mesh (Premilene(®) 82 g/m(2), 101 hernias). The 2- and 5-year recurrences and pain scores were analysed.

RESULTS

Patient's characteristics and the mean duration of operation (30-32 min) were similar between the three groups. After two years, there were 6 recurrences (2 in each group) of which 3 patients were re-operated. A feeling of a foreign body and sensation of pain were comparable with all meshes. After five years, overall recurrence rate was 10/312 (3.2%) with only 4 re-operations. A feeling of a foreign body (6.5-8.1%), chronic pain (13-23%) as well as use of analgesics (0-2.9%) were similar in all groups.

CONCLUSION

There were no statistical differences between the three meshes in pain, a feeling of a foreign body or use of analgesics after 5 years of Lichtenstein hernioplasty, when the same surgeon operated all patients with exactly the same surgical technique. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTER: NCT01295437.

Lightweight versus heavyweight mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Reinforcement of inguinal hernia repair with prosthetic mesh is standard practice but can cause considerable pain and stiffness around the groin and affect physical functioning. This has led to various types of mesh being engineered, with a growing interest in lighter-weight mesh. Minimally invasive approaches have also significantly reduced postoperative recovery from inguinal hernia repair. The aim of this systematic review was to compare the outcomes after laparoscopic inguinal repair using new lightweight or traditional heavyweight mesh in published randomised controlled trials.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, trial registries, conference proceedings, and reference lists were searched for controlled trials of heavyweight versus lightweight mesh for laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernias. The primary outcomes were recurrence and chronic pain. Secondary outcomes were visual analogue pain score at 7 days postoperatively, seroma formation, and time to return to work. Risk differences were calculated for categorical outcomes and standardised mean differences for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Eight trials were included in the analysis of 1,667 hernias in 1,592 patients. Mean study follow-up was between 2 and 60 months. There was no effect on recurrence [pooled analysis risk difference 0.00 (95% CI -0.01 to 0.01), p = 0.86] or chronic pain [pooled analysis risk difference -0.02 (95% CI -0.04 to 0.00); p = 0.1]. Lightweight and heavyweight mesh repair had similar outcomes with regard to postoperative pain, seroma development, and time to return to work.

CONCLUSION

Both mesh options appear to result in similar long- and short-term postoperative outcomes. Further long-term analysis may guide surgeon selection of mesh weight for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.