Evaluation of tension-free mesh inguinal hernia repair in Nigeria: a preliminary report.

BACKGROUND: Tension-free mesh inguinal hernia repair is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. However, reports are sparse in Nigeria. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact, outcome and cost implication of tension free inguinal hernia repair in a Nigerian setting. METHODS: A prospective study of all consecutive adults patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernia who had mesh repair over a period of 12 months was undertaken. A large sheet of 900cm2 polyproylene mesh material was used for all the patients in the study. All wounds were opened on the third postoperative day while sutures were removed on the eight day. Patients were followed up for one year. RESULTS: A total number of 30 patients had tension-free mesh ingunal hernia repair. Their ages ranged from 21 to 78 years (mean 47.2±15.5) years with a female to male ratio of 1:15. Complete inguinoscrotal hernia was the commonest type of groin hernia accounting for 40% of the cases. The repair of posterior wall which entailed placement of mesh was completed at a median time of 15 minutes. While two (6.7%) and one (3.3%) had wound oedema and groin pain respectively at one month, none of the patients had these complications or recurrence at a median of five months follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Tension-free mesh inguinal hernia repair was well tolerated and affordable to our patients. Pain and infections, reported to be the common complications of this procedure were infrequent in this study. A larger study is recommended to help confirm these findings.