Comparison of the outcome of mesh hernioplasty under local anaesthesia in patients with age less than 60 years VS more than 60 years in terms of wound complications and urinary retention

Objective: To compare the outcome of mesh hernioplasty performed under local anaesthesia in relatively young and older patients regarding wound complications and urinary retention. Methods: This comparative study was conducted at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, from 17th Feb 2017 to 17th feb 2018, and comprised patients who underwent mesh hernioplasty. Demographic profile was noted and the patients were divided into <60 and >60 age groups. Surgical method used was Lichtenstein mesh repair under local anaesthesia. Outcome was documented in terms of urinary retention at 8 hours post-operation, wound seroma and haematoma at 24 hours and wound infection after 5 days of surgery. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. Results: Of the 102 patients, there were 51(50%) in each of the two age groups. Among patients <60 years, urinary retention developed in 4(7.8%) compared to 6(11.8%) in the other group. Frequency of the wound complications, including wound haematoma, seroma and wound infection, were seen in 3(5.9%), 2(3.92%) and none respectively in the younger group compared to 2(3.92%), 2(3.92%) and none respectively in patients aged >60 years. Conclusion: The results in patients aged <60 years and >60 years were comparable in terms of urinary retention and wound complications.