A clinical study to evaluate the effectiveness of Agni-Karma in the management of direct inguinal hernia

Hernia, the protrusion of an organ or part through its containing wall, is a prevalent condition, with direct inguinal hernia (DIH) being the most common abdominal hernia among males. Inguinal hernia repair constitutes a significant proportion of surgical procedures globally and is associated with notable morbidity and mortality rates. In Ayurveda, DIH is classified as Anthra Vriddhi in Vriddhi Adhyaya, aligning closely with modern descriptions of inguinal hernia. Sushrutha Acharya (SA) recommends Agni Karma for this condition, as it is considered incurable (Asadhya) and necessitates surgical intervention, particularly for hernias that have not yet distended to the scrotum (Apraptha palakosha). Thus, the objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Agni Karma in managing direct inguinal hernia compared to Lashuna Eranda Oil Pichu Dharana. A total of 60 patients, aged 45-75 years, with clinically diagnosed DIH were randomly divided into two groups: Trial (Agni Karma) and control (Lashuna-Eranda Pichu Dharana). The study spanned 30 days, during which the trial group received Agni Karma with Pancha Lauha Shalaka, and control group underwent Pichu Dharana with Lashuna Eranda Oil on specific days. Subjective and objective criteria, including pain, movement limitation, reducibility, and hernia lump size, were used to assess treatment effectiveness. SPSS statistical software was employed for data evaluation. Both treatment groups showed significant relief in signs and symptoms post-treatment (p<0.05). Notably, Agni Karma exhibited more pronounced relief compared to Lashuna-Eranda Pichu Dharana (p<0.05). In conclusion, both Agni Karma and Lashuna-Eranda Pichu Dharana are effective in managing direct inguinal hernia, with Agni Karma demonstrating greater effectiveness. These findings hold promise for enhancing hernia management and patient outcomes, warranting further exploration and consideration in clinical practice.