Methods: This multi-center VA cooperative study is enrolling 2200 men with inguinal hernia and randomizing them to one of two operative techniques: open tension-free (Lichtenstein) repair, or laparoscopic preperitoneal repair. The primary outcome measure is recurrence at two years. Secondary outcome measures are complications, pain, time to return to normal activities, health-related quality of life, patient satisfaction, caregiver burden, and cost. The role of comorbidity in the outcome will also be determined. The sample size will permit at least 80% power to detect a difference of 3% in 2-year recurrence rates between the two surgical procedures. Fourteen VAMCs are randomizing the 2200 patients over a 3-year accrual period. The study will also have a 2-year follow-up period. All patients will be followed to the end of the study so that follow-up will range from 2-5 years (average 3.5 years).