Mesh hernioplasty using a stapler

BACKGROUND: The recent development of laparoscopic hernioplasty has evoked extensive re-examination of the safety and effectiveness of using synthetic mesh materials in hernia surgery. We have investigated the efficacy of anterior stapling mesh repair in the treatment of inguinal hernia. METHODS: From July 1993 to June 1994, a modified open mesh hernioplasty using staples for anchorage has been performed in 127 patients. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 61.4 +/- 13.0 years. Over 90% of them were operated on under local anaesthesia. The operation time ranged from 30 to 95 min with a median of 39 min. Only sixteen patients (12.6%) required postoperative parenteral analgesics and the median time for resuming daily activities was 7 days. Apart from two patients with reactionary haemorrhage, there was no other significant complication observed. Only one recurrence was encountered over the 26-month median follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the modified mesh hernia repair with a stapling device is a feasible, inexpensive and safe procedure that is well tolerated under local anaesthesia by most patients.