The clinical application of low-weight mesh for tension-free repair of inguinal hernia in the elders

Abstract

Objective To evaluate low-weight mesh for tension-free repair of inguinal hernia in the elders. Methods 120 old patients ( age at 60 -97 years) underwent tension-free repair of inguinal hernia by using low-weight mesh. The early complications, time of up and about, hospital stay, postoperative chronic pain,foreign body feelings and hernia recurrence were analyzed. Results The operations were successful in all cases and the average time of operation was (43 ± 12 ) min. 9 cases suffered from edema of the scrotum, 5 cases suffered urine retention, 4 cases suffered from incision hematoma. The average time of outof-bed was ( 17.4 ± 1.8 ) h, the average hospital days was ( 7.4 ± 1.9) d. However, there were 1.7%(2/120) patients suffering from slight chronic pain and 9. 1% (11/120) patients complaining foreign body feelings. There was no recurrence after follow-up for 6 to 48 months. Conclusions The clinical application of low-weight mesh for tension-free repair of inguinal hernia in old age is safe and effective, with an additional advantage of low occurrence of chronic pain and foreign body feelings. Key words: Hernia, inguinal; Restore operative, surgery; Low-weight mesh