Early results for new lightweight mesh in laparoscopic totally extra-peritoneal inguinal hernia repair

Prosthetic mesh reinforcement is now routine in the management of inguinal hernia but can cause considerable pain and stiffness around the groin. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome after laparoscopic TEP inguinal repair using new lightweight or traditional heavyweight mesh performed in a single unit. Between November 2004 and March 2005, 113 patients underwent laparoscopic TEP inguinal repair using either lightweight (28 g/m²) or heavyweight (85 g/m²) mesh. Follow-up data was obtained using case note review and telephone-based questionnaire in April 2005. Follow-up information was obtained for 93 (83%) out of 113 patients. There was no difference between the two groups in the incidence of pain/discomfort at mean 3-month follow-up (45 vs 41%, Mann–Whitney U, P=0.641). However, there was a significant inverse correlation between the length of time since operation and severity of pain/discomfort in the lightweight group (P=0.001, Pearson test), suggesting a faster speed of recovery with lightweight mesh. Laparoscopic TEP inguinal hernia repair with lightweight mesh yields promising early results. Whilst there was no significant difference in pain or recurrence in the short term, post-operative pain scores improved earlier in patients with lightweight mesh compared to heavyweight mesh. This merits further study, with larger cohorts and longer follow-up, to determine the benefits of lightweight mesh.