BACKGROUND: Inguinal herniorrhaphy, a common surgical procedure performed worldwide, represents an important expense for public health. A variety of surgical approaches and options for anesthesical procedures are available nowadays for inguinal hernia repair. The aim of this study is to review and to evaluate the Lichtenstein inguinal surgical treatment under local anesthesia. METHODS: Researching data consisted of scientific articles published and available at PubMed site (www.pubmed.gov). Literature review based on crossing the following headings: inguinal herniorrhaphy, local anesthesia and Lichtenstein technique. One hundred and eight publications related to the subject were reviewed. CONCLUSION: Combination between local anesthesia and tension-free Lichtenstein technique for primary inguinal hernia repair demonstrates positive results. The association described shows a significantly decrease in inguinal hernia recurrence and in postoperative complications, as well as reducing chronic pain that might be present in a late follow-up. The better immediate postoperative pain control, early hospital patient discharge and a faster return to job activities may all be attributed directly or indirectly to the technique implemented, reflecting increased patient satisfaction and lower costs for public health.
Inguinal herniorrhaphy; Local anesthesia; Lichtenstein technique