Background Open tension-free hernioplasty using a prosthetic mesh is a common operation for inguinal hernia repair because of the relative ease of the operation and low recurrence rate.Late-onset deep mesh infection can be unexpected complication.The aim of this study was to report our experience on late-onset mesh infection occurring years after open hernia repair.Methods Between 2010 and 2014, 1411 patients had inguinal hernias repaired using prosthetic mesh.Eight patients (0.57%) had deep-seated wound infection which required mesh removal for resolution of sepsis.The patients records were retrospectively reviewed for the purpose of this study.The main outcome measures were incidence of hernia recurrence and chronic groin pain.Results The patients were re-operation and the meshes were removed.There were 8 men.The median age was 49 years (range 31 to 73).Staphylococcus aureus was found in two patients and Escherichia coli in one patient.All patients treated with negative pressure wound therapy following 7 to 14 days.There was no recurrence and none of the patients had chronic groin pain for a period of 6 to 24 months postoperatively.Conclusion late-onset deep mesh infection following inguinal hernia repair is uncommon.When deep infection occurred, there should be no unnecessary delay in removing the infected mesh in order to allow resolution of chronic groin sepsis.