Study of Uncomplicated Adult Inguinal Hernia Repair Under Local Anaesthesia and Spinal Anaesthesia

Abstract

BACKGROUND This is a comparative study of uncomplicated adult inguinal hernia repair under local anaesthesia and spinal anaesthesia, whereas general anaesthesia requires an experienced anaesthetist with modern equipment and spinal anaesthesia entails post-operative invalidation, while local anaesthesia is easy to administer, simple and effective and causes no post-operative complications. Early ambulation which is hallmark of surgery done under local anaesthesia is a relative term, open to many interpretations. Hence, we have taken up this study to evaluate various aspects of adult inguinal hernia surgery carried out under local anaesthesia and compared it to more conventional methods off surgery under spinal/general anaesthesia. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present study consists of 25 cases of adult uncomplicated inguinal hernia. These patients underwent one day post-operative hospitalisation, surgical treatment as detailed below and results were compared with a control group of 25 cases operated and managed in the more conventional delayed ambulation after post-operative repair. These were recorded on a standard proforma. RESULTS There was significant statistical difference when it came to post-operative analgesia, post-operative complications and element of early ambulation. However, wound healing and recurrence were not affected. It also helped reduce economic burden of both hospital and the patient. CONCLUSION Significant reduction in incidence of post-operative complication without any deleterious effect on wound healing or recurrence even after a 6-month follow-up was established. Early ambulation did not cause any hindrance to wound healing or recurrence. There was significant reduction in terms of cost to the patient and also in reduction of hospital expenses and waiting list.