Laparoscopic versus Open Mesh (Lichtenstein) Repair of Inguinal Hernia: Current Status from Literature Review World Journal of Laparoscopic Surgery, September-December 2009;2(3):53-55 53 Laparoscopic versus Open Mesh (Lichtenstein) Repair of Inguinal Hern

The aim of this study was to review studies conducted recently in large centers which compared the laparoscopic approach to open mesh method in the repair of inguinal hernia. Search from literature was conducted using Highwire press and Google search engine. Analyses were made using parameters like type of anesthesia, operation time, hospital stay, early and late complication, pain and narcotic usage, time of return to work, cost effectiveness and patients satisfaction. Result showed that laparoscopic group experienced less pain, returned earlier to work and had more satisfactory outcome even though paid twice as much as the open mesh group. The laparoscopic group also suffered more fatal complications such as visceral injury. Hemorrhage and bladder and intestinal injuries as well as some deaths. In conclusion opinion was divided, some favored laparoscopic while others favored open mesh repair