A Comparative Study of Desarda versus Lichtenstein Techniques for Uncomplicated Inguinal Hernia Repair in Hospitals

Background: Inguinal hernia repair is commonly performed using mesh (Lichtenstein) and non-mesh (Desarda) techniques. While Lichtenstein is widely adopted, it carries risks of chronic pain and infection, prompting interest in the Desarda method as a potential alternative. Aim: To compare Desarda and Lichtenstein techniques in terms of operative time, pain, complications, recurrence, and patient satisfaction in uncomplicated inguinal hernia cases. Methods: A prospective study was conducted with 100 patients randomized into Desarda and Lichtenstein groups at JLNMCH, Bhagalpur. Data on operative time, postoperative pain, complications, recurrence at 6 months, and satisfaction were collected. SPSS version 23.0 was used for analysis, with significance at p < 0.05. Results: Desarda repair had a shorter operative time (45.8 vs. 60.3 min, p < 0.001), less postoperative pain (VAS 3.2 vs. 5.4, p < 0.001), and shorter hospital stay (1.5 vs. 2.3 days, p < 0.001). Chronic pain was lower in Desarda (2% vs. 14%, p = 0.03), with no significant difference in recurrence rates (p = 0.56). Patient satisfaction was higher in Desarda repair. Conclusion: Desarda repair offers advantages over Lichtenstein in reducing operative time, postoperative pain, and recovery duration, with higher patient satisfaction and comparable recurrence rates.