Predictive factors comparison of complications and recurrences in three tension-free herniorraphy techniques

Inguinal herniorraphy is one of the most common surgeries performed. Avoiding hernia recurrence is a primary concern. Hence, it is necessary to analyze the predictive factors of postoperative complications and recurrence. To compare the predictive factors of postoperative complications and recurrences of hernias among three tension-free open herniorraphy techniques. Five hundred and fifty-one inguinal hernia patients, operated on with one of three tension-free anterior approach herniorraphy techniques, were included in a cohort study. The three techniques were: Lichtenstein (n=214), Mesh-Plug (n=201) and Prolene Hernia System (PHS, n=136). The patients were evaluated at 15 days, 1 month, 6 months and then every year up to 5 years after hernioplasty. The variables evaluated were recurrences and postoperative complications. Relative risk was estimated from a univariate analysis of the presumable risk values, after which a multivariate analysis was carried out. Complications [n=27, (4.9%)] were more frequently associated with incarcerated hernia, a coexisting disease at the time of operation, hospitalization longer than 1 day, previous herniorraphy, a herniary ring larger than 4.5 cm and a history of postoperative complications. Recurrence was greater for the Mesh-Plug group [n=5 (2.5%), RR: 4.35 (CI: 0.85–22.23)] than for the Lichtenstein [n=2 (0.9%), RR: 0.63 (0.06–3.87)] and PHS [n=0 (0%), RR de 0 (0–2.39)] groups. The presence of coexisting disease during hernioplasty, incarcerated hernia and an extended hospital stay are predictive factors for hernia complications. Previous herniorraphy, a herniary ring larger than 4.5 cm and postoperative complications are predictive factors for hernia recurrence.