Comparative study of mesh fixation Prolene and Vicryl suture in Lichtenstein repair

Background: Inguinal hernia repair through the Lichtenstein tension-free technique remains the gold standard, with mesh fixation being a critical determinant of outcomes. Non-absorbable sutures like polypropylene (Prolene) ensure long-term stability but may contribute to chronic pain. Absorbable sutures such as polyglactin (Vicryl) could reduce foreign-body reaction and post-operative discomfort without compromising repair integrity. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to compare post-operative pain, operative time, complications, and hospital stay between Prolene and Vicryl sutures for mesh fixation in Lichtenstein hernioplasty. Materials and Methods: This prospective comparative study included 70 patients undergoing elective Lichtenstein hernioplasty, randomized into two equal groups – Prolene (Group A) and Vicryl (Group B). Pain was assessed on post-operative days 1, 3, and 14 using the Visual Analog Scale. Operative time, hospital stay, and complications including chronic inguinodynia, seroma, wound infection, mesh infection, and recurrence were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test and Chi-square test, with P<0.05 considered significant. Results: Mean operative times were comparable (P=0.92), but mean hospital stay was longer in the Vicryl group (5.57 vs. 4.51 days, P=0.001). Vicryl significantly reduced pain on day 1 (P=0.02) and day 3 (P=0.002), with no difference by day 14. Chronic inguinodynia was lower with Vicryl (5.71% vs. 22.86%, P=0.04). Other complications were rare and similar between groups. Conclusion: Vicryl sutures offer significant advantages in reducing early and chronic post-operative pain after Lichtenstein hernioplasty without affecting operative time or complication rates, though with a slightly longer hospital stay. They may be preferred for improving patient comfort and quality of life.