Conclusions  Laparoscopic TEP inguinal hernia repair with a lightweight mesh improves functional outcome in the short and long term. There was significantly less interference with all aspects of physical activity with the lightweight mesh. Pain in both groups was very mild, highlighting the benefits of laparoscopic surgery. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticleDOI 10.1007/s10029-009-0558-2Authors L. R. Khan, University of Edinburgh Department of Clinical and Surgical Sciences (Surgery), Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh 51 Little France Crescent Edinburgh EH16 4SA UKS. Liong, University of Edinburgh Department of Clinical and Surgical Sciences (Surgery), Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh 51 Little France Crescent Edinburgh EH16 4SA UKA. C. de Beaux, University of...