The transinguinal preperitoneal technique (TIPP) in inguinal hernia repair does not cause less chronic pain in relation to the ProGrip technique: a prospective double-blind randomized clinical trial comparing the TIPP technique, using the PolySoft mesh, with the ProGrip self-fixing semi-resorbable mesh.

Background: Position of the mesh and the method of fixation are important in the occurrence of chronic pain in inguinal herniorrhaphy. An RCT was conducted to evaluate chronic pain after transinguinal preperitoneal (TIPP) repair compared with a Lichtenstein-like repair with a semi-resorbable self-fixing mesh (ProGrip).

Methods: Patients with a primary unilateral inguinal hernia were randomized either to the TIPP (PolySoft mesh) or to repair with a ProGrip mesh. Primary objective was the occurrence of chronic pain after surgery. Secondary objectives were, i.e., recurrences, complications, and quality of life. Follow-up occurred after 2 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year. Patients and physicians were blinded.

Results: Two hundred and fifty-eight patients were randomized to TIPP or ProGrip mesh repair. Two hundred and thirty-eight were included in the analysis: 122 in the TIPP group and 116 in the ProGrip group. Baseline characteristics were compatible. After 2 weeks and 3 months, there was significantly more moderate and severe pain in the ProGrip group on different pain scores. Median pain scores were very low in both groups after 3 months and 1 year (0-0.5 on a scale of 0-10). There was no difference in pain scores between both groups after 1 year. Recurrence rates were low; three patients in each group (2.6 % ProGrip and 2.5 % TIPP).

Conclusion: There was no significant difference in chronic pain between the inguinal repairs with the use of a ProGrip mesh compared with a TIPP repair at 1 year after surgery. In both groups, the occurrence of chronic pain was low.