Efficacy of the tension-free Lichtenstein mesh hernioplasty in the successful management of inguinal hernias in Saudi Arabian athletes

Background: The tension-free mesh hernioplasty has attained worldwide acceptance because of the superior outcome in decreased rates of recurrence to 1%–2%. The Lichtenstein method of hernioplasty has evolved as the most liked technique to use. In this study, we would like to evaluate the outcome of the Lichtenstein mesh repair of the sport-induced inguinal hernias in Saudi Arabian athletes. Methods: A prospective cohort study of 274 Saudi Arabian athletes who had the Lichtenstein technique as a method of repair for inguinal hernias from January 2005 to December 2014 was conducted. A polypropylene mesh was used in all patients. Results: The mean age reported was 23 ± 2.41 years (range 18–33). The mean time to return to full athletic activities was 8 weeks (6–10 weeks). The high effectiveness of the Lichtenstein repair of inguinal hernias in Saudi Arabian athletes was recorded. No recurrence at all has been registered during a 24-month follow-up period. All athlete patients completed 24 months of follow-up. Conclusions: Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair was found to possess a high efficacy in the treatment of inguinal hernias in Saudi Arabian athletes promising low morbidity rates and an astonishing recurrence rate of 0%. The remarkable ability of the athletes to reach the same preoperative athletic level in a short period and the high satisfaction rate among the athletes makes the Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair an efficient approach in managing inguinal hernias in terms of the clinical, athletic, and concurrent socioeconomic outcome.