Heavy-weight (prolene) mesh versus light-weight (ultrapro) mesh in laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair

Context
Laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia has gained its place in the general practice; however, meshes such as prolene were the same as those used for open repair. New types of light-weight meshes such as ultrapro may be associated with less complications and rates of recurrence.
Aim
The study aimed to compare the outcomes of transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair using heavy-weight (prolene) mesh versus the light-weight (ultrapro) mesh.
Settings and design
This is a prospective randomized comparative study.
Materials and methods
Sixty patients were recruited for this study. Fifteen patients were operated by transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair using the light-weight mesh and 45 patients were operated using the heavy-weight mesh. The patients were surveyed for postoperative complications, such as seroma, obstruction, pain, and recurrence.
Statistical analysis
Continuous variables were expressed as mean and SD. Categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentage.
Results
There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the postoperative complications or recurrence rates. The light-weight meshes were superior regarding the first 24 h pain and pain after 1 week, 1, 6, and 12 months with early return to physical activity in comparison with the heavy-weight meshes.
Conclusion
Light-weight meshes are superior to the heavy-weight meshes in respect to the occurrence of pain and early return to work, yet with comparable results regarding the postoperative complications and recurrence rates.