This clinical trial is focused on studying chronic postsurgical pain that can occur after undergoing an open inguinal hernia mesh repair. The treatment being investigated is a technique called the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block, which involves using a local anesthetic named Levobupivacaine. This anesthetic is administered through a local injection to help manage pain. The purpose of the study is to compare the effects of administering the TAP block before the surgical incision (preincisional) versus after the surgical incision (postincisional) on the development of chronic pain following the surgery.

Participants in the study will undergo the open inguinal hernia mesh repair procedure, which is a common surgery to fix hernias in the groin area. The study will observe the patients for a period of three months after their surgery to assess the incidence of chronic pain. The goal is to determine if the timing of the TAP block can help prevent chronic pain and reduce the need for long-term use of pain-relief medications.

This study aims to provide valuable insights into pain management strategies for patients undergoing this type of hernia repair, potentially improving recovery experiences and outcomes. By understanding the impact of the TAP block’s timing, healthcare providers can better tailor pain management approaches to enhance patient comfort and reduce the risk of chronic pain after surgery.