Mesh-related Complications in Inguinal Hernia Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background: Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide, with mesh-based techniques becoming the gold standard. However, mesh-related complications remain a significant concern affecting patient outcomes and quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, types, and risk factors associated with mesh-related complications following inguinal hernia repair. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. A total of 486 patients who underwent mesh-based inguinal hernia repair were enrolled and followed for 12 months postoperatively. Demographic data, surgical parameters, and complication rates were recorded and analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. Results: The overall mesh-related complication rate was 12.8% (n=62). Chronic groin pain was the most common complication (6.4%), followed by seroma formation (3.1%), surgical site infection (2.1%), and mesh migration (1.2%). Multivariate analysis revealed that age >60 years (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.42-3.86, p=0.001), body mass index >30 kg/m² (OR=2.89, 95% CI: 1.67-4.99, p<0.001), and diabetes mellitus (OR=1.98, 95% CI: 1.21-3.24, p=0.006) were independent predictors of mesh-related complications. Laparoscopic repair demonstrated significantly lower complication rates compared to open repair (8.7% vs. 15.9%, p=0.018). Conclusion: Mesh-related complications following inguinal hernia repair occur in a notable proportion of patients. Identification of modifiable risk factors and appropriate surgical technique selection may help minimize these complications and improve patient outcomes.