Effect of Closed Suction Drainage on Postoperative Seroma Formation After Lichtenstein Hernioplasty for Complete Inguinoscrotal Hernia: A Prospective Comparative Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background: Lichtenstein tension-free hernioplasty is widely accepted as the standard technique for inguinal hernia repair. Nevertheless, postoperative complications such as seroma and scrotal hematoma occur in approximately 5–12% of cases, particularly in patients with large or complete inguinoscrotal hernias. These complications are frequently associated with extensive surgical dissection and inflammatory reactions related to polypropylene mesh. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of closed suction drainage in preventing postoperative seroma formation following Lichtenstein hernioplasty in patients with complete inguinoscrotal hernia. Materials & Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted on 92 patients diagnosed with complete inguinoscrotal hernia. Patients were alternately allocated into two groups: a drain group and a drainless group. The incidence of postoperative seroma, hematoma, and surgical site infection (SSI) was compared between the two groups. Results: The incidence of hematoma, seroma, and surgical site infection was lower in the drain group compared with the drainless group (2.17% vs 13.04%, 2.17% vs 17.39%, and 2.17% vs 13.04%, respectively). Statistical analysis showed a significant reduction in postoperative complications in the drain group.Conclusion: Placement of a closed suction drain after distal sac dissection during Lichtenstein hernioplasty effectively reduces postoperative seroma formation and hematoma without increasing the risk of surgical site infection.
Institution: Sirte University
Language: English
Topic: Hernia repair and management
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7208817093