Self-Retaining Freedom Proflor vs. Lichtenstein Mesh Repair for the Reduction of Postoperative Pain in Inguinal Hernia: A 1-Year Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Introduction: Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair (LMR), surgical procedure for inguinal hernia, associated with postoperative pain. The study was aimed to compare self-retaining Freedom ProFlor versus LMR for the reduction of postoperative pain in inguinal hernia.Methodology: A total of 60 patients with inguinal hernia undergoing mesh repair were randomized into two groups of 30 each: group A (Freedom ProFlor mesh repair) and group B (LMR). Demographic data and clinical findings of all the patients including duration of pain, lump size, cough impulse, and the position of hernia were noted. Recorded findings such as postoperative pain and operative time were subjected to statistical analysis.Results: Most (31) of the patients had a hernia on the right side. The operative time was significantly less in group A when compared to group B (P < 0.05). Significantly lower pain scores were observed in group A than in group B (P < 0.05). The mean postoperative pain was significantly lower in group A compared with group B during the fifth follow-up visit (0.2 ± 0.41 vs. 1.07 ± 1.28; P < 0.0001). Conclusion: The Freedom ProFlor mesh repair was better than the LMR regarding postoperative pain. Moreover, the dose of the analgesic needed in the Freedom ProFlor mesh repair group was less and for a shorter time when compared to the LMR group. However, further long-term studies are required for documenting hernia recurrences.