Lichtenstein vs. Rutkow-Robbins technique in the treatment of primary inguinal hernia. Analysis of the long term results

The AA. compared the preliminary results of two different methods of inguinal hernioplasty: one using only the mesh (Lichtenstein) and the other one using both mesh and plug (Rutkow-Robbins). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Seventy consecutive patients were randomly allocated into two groups, 35 patients each one, to receive either a Licthenstein mesh or a Rutkow-Robbins plug and mesh for primary monolateral groin hernia. RESULTS: Follow-up was planned at 1 week, 3 weeks, 3 and 6 months after surgery. The Authors evaluated early and late complications i.e.: the presence of paraesthesia, postoperative pain and the incidence of recurrence. The results were analysed statistically using the Fisher and chi2 tests. CONCLUSIONS: Data parameters did not show statistically significative differences between the two groups (p > 0.05). No recurrences were detected. The Authors concluded that no advantage may derivate by an additional plug to the single mesh hernia repair.