Evaluation of Open Rives-Stoppa and Lichtenstein Repair Methods for Bilateral Inguinal Hernias: A Single-Centre Comparative Analysis

Aim The purpose of the study is to compare the two common open surgical methods for bilateral inguinal hernias: bilateral Lichtenstein repair and Rives-Stoppa repair. It evaluates their benefits, drawbacks, and outcomes to improve the management of bilateral inguinal hernias and enhance patient care and results. Background Abdominal wall hernias are prevalent in the surgical field, and they occur when intra-abdominal organs protrude through weakened or torn regions in the abdominal wall. The Lichtenstein repair, also known as the tension-free mesh repair, is one of the most widely used techniques that involves placing a synthetic mesh over the hernia defect to reinforce the abdominal wall. The Rives-Stoppa technique takes the posterior approach, which involves placing a large mesh in the preperitoneal space, which provides broad coverage of the potential hernia sites. Method This retrospective study included 86 male patients from the Department of General Surgery at Indus Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan. Data were collected up to three months post-operation for all open bilateral inguinal hernia repairs performed between January 2017 and April 2021. The patients were divided into two groups: group A underwent Lichtenstein repair, while group B underwent Rives-Stoppa repair. The procedures were performed by different surgeons and surgical trainees under direct supervision. Results Regarding post-operative complications (scrotal swelling, epididymo-orchitis, seroma formation, ipsilateral testicular swelling, surgical site infection, erectile dysfunction, wound dehiscence, fever, hydrocele, sensory abnormality, hernia recurrence in 3 months, post-operative pain in 14 days), there was no significant difference observed between the two groups. There were two recurrences within three months after Lichtenstein repair and one recurrence after Stoppa repair, but no statistical difference was demonstrated. Conclusion Statistically, both the Lichtenstein repair and the Rives-Stoppa repair demonstrated similar outcomes. However, the Rives-Stoppa repair offers distinct advantages for bilateral inguinal hernia repair, making it a preferable option in many cases as this approach utilises a single midline incision, simultaneously facilitating access to both hernial sites. This method ensures complete coverage of the myopectineal orifices bilaterally, addressing all potential hernia sites in the lower abdomen. These features collectively contribute to the technique's efficacy in managing bilateral hernias.