Comparative study between “Desarda and Lichtenstein repair of inguinal hernia”.

Abstract

Objective: To compare Desarda and Lichtenstein’ s technique of inguinal hernia repair in terms of early post-operative complications like pain, bleeding, infection and hospital stay. Study Design: Randomized Comparative Study. Setting: Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan. Period: January 2025 to June 2025. Methods: This including 164 patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernia. Patients were randomly assigned to Group A (Desarda repair) and Group B (Lichtenstein repair). Baseline demographics were recorded. Outcomes measured included operative duration, postoperative pain (VAS), hospital stay, complications (bleeding, infection, hematoma), recurrence at follow-up, and treatment cost. Results: The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the Desarda group compared to the Lichtenstein group (p<0.05). Postoperative pain scores were lower in Desarda patients at 72 hours (p<0.05). Hospital stay was shorter in Desarda patients (mean 2.1 vs. 3.0 days, p<0.001). Complication rates were comparable between groups, though seroma and wound infection were slightly higher in the Lichtenstein group. No significant difference in recurrence was observed during the follow-up period. Treatment costs were substantially lower in the Desarda group. Conclusion: Desarda repair found to be effective, safe and economical alternative to Lichtenstein mesh hernioplasty for primary uncomplicated inguinal hernia. It offers shorter operative time, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, and lower cost, without increasing the risk of recurrence or complications.