Langenbeck's archives of surgery
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Langenbecks Arch Surg · Oct 2004
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialChronic pain after hernia repair: a randomized trial comparing Shouldice, Lichtenstein and TAPP.
Chronic pain after hernia repair is common, and it is unclear to what extent the different operation techniques influence its incidence. The aim of the present study was to compare the three major standardized techniques of hernia repair with regard to postoperative pain. ⋯ Chronic pain after hernia surgery is significantly more common with the open approach to the groin by Shouldice and Lichtenstein methods. The presence of the prosthetic mesh was not associated with significant postoperative complaints. The TAPP repair represents the most effective approach of the three techniques in the hands of an experienced surgeon.