The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

Skip to main content

Lichtenstein Hernia Repair

Tension-free open inguinal hernia repair using a flat mesh.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Lichtenstein Hernia Repair?

The Lichtenstein technique, described by Irving Lichtenstein in 1986, is the gold-standard open mesh repair for inguinal hernias and is performed under local, regional, or general anesthesia.

Through a 6-8 cm groin incision, the hernia sac is dissected, reduced into the abdominal cavity, and a flat polypropylene mesh is sutured to the inguinal ligament, conjoint tendon, and pubic tubercle, covering the entire posterior wall without tension.

Recurrence rates are below 1-2% in experienced hands, postoperative pain is mild, and patients can return to daily activities within 2-4 weeks. It is especially preferred in patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia.

Symptoms

Reducible groin bulge
Pain on lifting heavy objects
Pulling sensation while standing
Discomfort while coughing or straining
Scrotal extension (in men)
Acute pain in incarceration
Vomiting in strangulation

Risk Factors

Symptomatic primary inguinal hernia
Recurrent hernia (selected cases)
Inability to tolerate general anesthesia
Advanced age and comorbidities
Bilateral hernias (staged)
Patients who cannot afford laparoscopy
Need for outpatient repair

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent groin swelling
  • Pain affecting daily activities
  • Sudden severe pain (incarceration)
  • Nausea, vomiting and tenderness
  • Skin redness over the hernia

Treatment Methods

01
Preoperative ultrasound and physical examination
02
Local or regional anesthesia preference
03
Open inguinal mesh placement (Lichtenstein)
04
Multifilament suture fixation
05
Same-day discharge in most cases
06
Lifting restriction for 4-6 weeks
07
Follow-up for chronic groin pain

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Genel Cerrahi Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Appendicitis

Genel Cerrahi

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix causing severe pain in the lower right abdomen. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are life-saving.

Inguinal Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Inguinal hernia is the protrusion of intestine or fat into the inguinal canal due to weakness in the abdominal wall. It can be permanently corrected with surgical treatment.

Umbilical Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Umbilical hernia manifests as a soft swelling around the navel. While it often resolves spontaneously in infants, surgical treatment may be required in adults.

Gallstones and Cholecystectomy

Genel Cerrahi

Gallstones cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after fatty meals. They are safely treated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Genel Cerrahi

Hemorrhoids result from swelling of the veins in the anus; they present with blood on toilet paper, itching, and pain. Various treatments are available, from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Anal Fissure

Genel Cerrahi

Anal fissure is a tear in the thin skin of the anal canal. It presents with sharp pain and bleeding and can be healed with medical or surgical treatment.

Pilonidal Sinus

Genel Cerrahi

Pilonidal sinus consists of tunnels and tracts prone to chronic infection, formed by hair becoming embedded under the skin in the tailbone area. Surgical treatment provides a permanent solution.

Thyroid Surgery

Genel Cerrahi

Thyroid surgery involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland for indications such as benign nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.