Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Efficacy of Self Gripping Mesh in Inguinal Hernia Repair

Abstract
Background: Chronic pain following inguinal hernia repair is a complex problem. Mesh fixation with sutures may be a contributing factor to this pain. A new self gripping mesh (Parietex® Progrip®) was developed to allow sutureless fixation of mesh, avoid chronic pain after hernia surgery and reduce the operative time.
Aim of the Work: The aim of this study was to study the efficacy of self gripping mesh in inguinal hernia repair. Methods: Twenty six male patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernia were randomized into 2 groups. Group A: Included 10 patients subjected to repair with polypropylene mesh. Group B: Included 16 patients subjected to repair with parietex® progrip® mesh. They were followed-up for incidence of pain (with VAS) and integrity of the mesh (with U/S).
Results: There were no statistically significant differences between both groups regarding age, sex, body mass index or incidence of postoperative pain (p=0.385). The operative time and mesh fixation time were significantly shorter in self gripping mesh group than the sutured mesh group (p<0.001). There were no reported cases of recurrence, haematoma, epididymo-orchitis or testicular atrophy in either group during the follow-up period. Scrotal oedema was detected in 7 cases in group A and 4 cases in group B. Seroma was detected in 3 cases in group A and 2 cases in group B. Wound infection occurred in 2 cases in group A.
Conclusion: The higher price of the parietex progrip mesh makes its use questionable. The smaller number of the studied cases with the short follow-up period make us unable to give solid recommendation to use one mesh type than the other.