mesh fixation using conventional non-absorbable sutures versus skin staples in patients undergoing primary inguinal hernioplasty

One hundred patients were included in this randomized prospective trial; 50 patients were enrolled in the suturing group, and the other 50 enrolled in the staples group. the statistical analysis did not reveal any discernible differences between the two groups regarding patient or hernia characteristics. however, the use of sutures for mesh fixation was associated with a significant prolongation in the operative time (56.2 vs. 44 minutes in the staple group). the mean duration of hospitalization was 12.56 hours in the suture group and 12.3 hours in the staple group. the incidence of early postoperative adverse events, including hematoma, seroma, wound infection, and urine retention, was comparable between the two groups. regarding late complications, the incidence of hernia recurrence was 4% in the suturing group and 2% in the stapler group (p = 0.558). in addition, postsurgical inguinodynia was reported by 14% and 12% of patients in the same groups, respectively. we conclude that use of skin staples in the fixation of mesh during inguinal hernioplasty is not associated with extra benefits compared to the conventional suturing method, apart from the shorter operative time. it should be used when available or when shorter operative time is required (risky anesthetic patients).