Use of Computed Tomography to Detect Postoperative Changes After Lichtenstein Inguinal Hernia Repair

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of computed tomography to visualize the post-operative changes after Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair.

Methods: Patients with Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair and post-operative computed tomography scans were included. There were 11 male patients with 14 hernias; the mean age was 63.9±9.2 years. Time interval between inguinal hernia repair and imaging was 186±70 days (median, 211 days). After multiplanar reformatting, images were reviewed with respect to the postoperative changes and visualization of anatomic structures that were found in the inguinal region.

Results: The inferior epigastric artery and vein, inguinal ligament, spermatic cord, and pubic tubercle were clearly detected in all the males. Small fluid collections were observed only during early post-operative period in two patients (14.3%). Minimal thickening of the inguinal ligament with fatty streaks and completely normal appearance were present in eight (57%) and six (43%) inguinal regions, respectively.

Conclusion: Multiplanar reformatting helps physicians in visualizing the inguinal anatomy in the patients with hernia post surgery. Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repair may be regarded as the gold standard technique for inguinal hernia repair because of the lack of any destructive anatomical changes.