A Comparative Study between Lichtenstein Hernioplasty and Rutkow-Robbins Method of Hernioplasty for Inguinal Hernia Repair

Background: To compare the effectiveness of the two different methods of inguinal hernia repairs viz. The Lichtenstein hernioplasty and Rutkow-Robbins method of hernioplasty. To compare the results of these two techniques and complications if any, and to arrive at a conclusion as to the better modality of treatment in the present setup. Methods: Total 50 patients of uncomplicated direct and indirect inguinal hernia were included in the study, they were randomly chosen for two different surgeries–The Lichtenstein hernioplasty and Rutkow-Robbins method of hernioplasty, 25 cases each. The relevant data regarding age/sex incidence, mode of presentation, surgical treatment and postoperative complications were recorded on predesigned proforma and analysed. The patients were followed up after 7 days, 15 days, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months thereafter. Results: The mean operative time for Lichtenstein hernioplasty group was 57 minutes, and 47 minutes for the Rutkow-Robbins hernioplasty group. Rest of the observational findings were comparable without any significant difference. Conclusion: The Rutkow-Robbins method of hernioplasty can be completed easily and more quickly with significant reduction in the operative time than Lichtenstein hernioplasty. Incidences of Intra operative and post operative complications as well as overall results of procedures were all comparable without any significant difference.