A randomized comparison of driver reaction time after open and endoscopic tension-free inguinal hernia repair.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to assess whether prosthetic tension-free inguinal hernia repair would cause less impairment of reaction times, thus allowing an earlier return to driving than previously recommended after conventional hernia repair.


METHODS
Driver reaction times were measured in 64 patients randomized to open tension-free repair or totally extraperitoneal endoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Measurements were made preoperatively and on postoperation days 1, 3, and 6.


RESULTS
In the endoscopic group, there was a gradual improvement in hand and foot reaction times over the days tested. In the open group, there was a slowing in both hand and foot reaction times on postoperation days 1 and 3. The difference in foot reaction times between the open and endoscopic groups was significant on these days (p = 0.01 and 0.003, respectively). By day 6, the foot reaction times in the open group were slightly faster than before surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
After prosthetic tension-free inguinal hernia repair, patients can return to driving 1 week after the operation.
Wright
D M
DM
University Department of Surgery, Western Infirmary, Dumbarton Road, Glasgow, G11 6NT, Scotland.
Hall
M G
MG
Paterson
C R
CR
O'Dwyer
P J
PJ
D001334:Automobile Driving; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D004724:Endoscopy; D005260:Female; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011930:Reaction Time; D013526:Surgical Mesh