A Prospective Comparative Study of Conventional Versus Amid-Modified Lichtenstein Mesh Repair in Primary Unilateral Inguinal Hernia

Background Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair is the standard open technique for inguinal hernia repair; however, it is still associated with complications such as chronic groin pain, nerve entrapment, meshoma formation, and recurrence. Amid’s modifications to the conventional Lichtenstein technique aim to improve mesh coverage, minimize fixation, and protect inguinal nerves, thereby reducing postoperative morbidity. Objective To compare the outcomes of conventional Lichtenstein mesh repair with Amid-modified Lichtenstein repair in patients with primary unilateral inguinal hernia. Methods This prospective comparative study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, GIMSR, from November 2023 to November 2024. Sixty-five patients aged 18–70 years with primary unilateral inguinal hernia were enrolled and divided into two groups: Group A (conventional Lichtenstein repair, n=32) and Group B (Amid-modified Lichtenstein repair, n=33). Primary outcomes assessed were chronic groin pain (>3 months) and recurrence. Secondary outcomes included seroma, hematoma, wound infection, meshoma, and operative time. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale. Patients were followed up for 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests, with p