Pre-peritoneal local anaesthetic to decrease pain in hernia repairs study

This study is looking at whether injecting a numbing medicine (local anaesthetic) into a specific area near the abdomen during keyhole (laparoscopic) hernia surgery can reduce pain after the operation. Patients who have hernias in the groin area and are suitable for day surgery will be randomly assigned to receive either the local anaesthetic or a harmless salt-water solution. Researchers will contact participants by phone after surgery to check on their pain levels and any complications. You may be eligible if: - You are between 18 and 80 years old - You have a femoral or inguinal (groin) hernia - Your hernia is suitable for laparoscopic (keyhole) surgical repair - You are fit for day surgery and able to give informed consent You may NOT be eligible if: - You are allergic to marcain (bupivacaine) with adrenaline - Your anaesthetist considers marcain with adrenaline unsuitable for you - You will not be available for follow-up appointments - You are already enrolled in another hernia surgery study at Waitemata District Health Board Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.