Elective Neurectomy During Inguinal Hernia Repair

Effect of Elective Intraoperative Neurectomy on Chronic Pain After Lichtenstein Hernia Repair. A Prospective, Single-blind, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial

Chronic inguinal neuralgia is one of the most important complications following inguinal hernia repair.

It may even outweigh the benefit of the operation. Intraoperative neurectomy has been investigated to reduce the incidence of chronic pain.

This study evaluates the effects of elective division of the ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric and genital branch of the genitofemoral nerves on pain and postoperative sensory symptoms after Lichtenstein hernia repair.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Uni- or bilateral inguinal hernia
• Karnofsky-index ≥70
• Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recurrent inguinal hernia
• Previous inguinal operation
• Emergent operation
• Severe comorbidities