Background: Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure, with more than 20 million cases yearly. Choice between mesh types varies in clinical practice. To compare light-weight polypropylene (LW-PP, 34-36 g/m2) and heavy-weight polypropylene (HW-PP, 95 g/m2) meshes.
Methods: Data from patients who underwent open inguinal hernia repair between 2020 and 2022. Selection criteria ensured homogeneity. Endpoints were to assess the impact of different mesh weights on overall health-related quality of life (HRQoL), using Short Form 36 (SF-36), and to monitor postoperative complications.
Results: Two hundred patients were included in both groups. Lateral and direct hernias occurred in 60.5 % and 39.5 %. According to EHS, 31.5 %, 22.3 % and 46.2 % were classified as size 1, 2, 3. Follow-up showed similar HRQoL at 30-days, with a favorable trend towards LW-PP mesh offering fewer limitations, better comfort, and improved general health after 12-months. No difference in postoperative paresthesia, wound hematoma, and interference with daily activities.
Conclusion: 1-year after surgery HRQoL evaluation highlights the non-inferiority of LW-PP. Mesh selection should be tailored, aiming at improving outcomes and postoperative comfort.
Keywords: Heavyweight; Inguinal hernia repair; Lightweight; Polypropylene meshes; Quality of life.
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