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Hernia repair mesh aids in the stability of incisional hernia repair and can reduce the need for subsequent operations. There is, however, debate among surgeons over which type of hernia mesh—synthetics, biologics, or biosynthetics—is indicated as best for specific patients. A retrospective case review comparing surgical outcomes based on wound class and mesh materials may provide insights into this question. This study evaluates patient outcomes using biosynthetic mesh based upon CDC wound classification. Following Institutional Review Board approval, the local National Surgery Quality Improvement (NSQIP) databases were queried for open ventral hernia repaired with absorbable mesh implants from January 2013–December 2017. Factors for comparison included patient demographics, operative details, and an analysis of clinical outcomes. Our study identified 112 ventral hernia repair cases with absorbable mesh placement, 32% (n = 36) were wound classes II–IV. Higher wound class correlated statistically with diabetes (33.3%), prior hernia repair (61.1%), and parastomal hernia (44.4%). Higher wound classes were associated with more emergent presentations, involved bowel resection more frequently, required larger mesh implants, increased post-operative surgical site infections, and wound disruption. Increasing wound class was also associated with longer hospital stays and greater need for readmission (38.9% vs. 11.8%). Compared to patients with clean wounds, biosynethic mesh repair patients with contaminated wounds exhibited more emergent presentations, increased incidence of bowel resection, increased mesh size, and more readmissions. Despite these peri-operative outcomes, hernia recurrence rates among biosynethic mesh hernia repair were similar in CDC class II–IV patients as class I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Decreased computed tomography (CT) attenuation of muscle is independently associated with muscle weakness. The CT attenuation of the abdominal wall muscles may correlate with that of the psoas in patients without ventral hernias. This means that the CT attenuation of the psoas may be related to the occurrence of incisional hernias (IH). CT-determined sarcopenia was deemed inefficient in predicting the development of IH, while limited attention has been paid to the association between muscle fatty infiltration and incidences of IH. In this study, we aim to investigate whether the psoas’ CT measurement parameters, including the average CT attenuation, fatty infiltration rate and psoas muscle index, are associated with IH. Methods In this study, adult patients who had undergone an appendicectomy in the past and had then, for any reason, been hospitalised in our hospital from January 2018 to December 2019 were enrolled. The patients were classified into an IH group and a non-IH group. Their psoas’ CT attenuation, fatty infiltration rate (FIR) and psoas muscle index (PMI) were measured or calculated. Sarcopenia was defined according to their PMI. Differences between the two groups’ indices were then compared. A logistic regression model was applied to assess the effects of psoas’ CT measurement parameters on the occurrence of IH. Results One hundred twenty patients were included in this study. The psoas’ CT attenuation (p = 0.031) and PMI (p = 0.042) in the IH group were significantly lower than those in the non-IH group, and FIR in the IH group was significantly higher than in the non-IH group (p

Introduction: Port site hernias continue to be a major problem in laparoscopic surgery. The causes of this type of hernia are numerous. The main ones are operative wound infection, obesity, male gender, diabetes, BPH, etc. However, in addition to these factors it seems that in the etiology of post laparoscopic port - site hernias are at least two other factors that have an impact on these complications. Aim of the article is to assess the role of different factors in the occurrence of port site incisional hernias according to our experience. Material and Methods: the 187 patients who were operated on at the General Surgery Department of the Clinical Hospital of Tetovo between January, 2017 and June, 2019 on whom the surgical intervention was performed through laparoscopic techniques were included in this study. The reason for the surgical interventions has been various surgical pathologies of the abdomen such as cholecystolithiasis, acute appendicitis, cysts of the liver, ovaries and kidneys, etc. Postoperative complications in these patients, especially port site hernia will be in the focus of our study. Results: Out of the total of 187 patients included in this study the occurrence of incisional hernia was recorded in six of them. In five patients the hernia was localized at the site of insertion of the supra-umbilical trocar, while in the other, the trocar was inserted below the xiphoid process. From our records it happened that in all these patients, with postoperative hernia, the insertion of the cannula was done with the cutting trocar. At the same time in all six patients with post laparoscopic hernia the surgical intervention performed was cholecystectomy or appendectomy. Thus, the removal of the gallbladder and appendix, without the use of an Endo-bag, was performed at the site of the hernia presentation. In all these patients the entrance porta infection in which the hernia has occurred, was registered in the early post operative period. Conclusion: Of the many factors that increase the risk of incisional hernias, at the site of cannula insertion during laparoscopic interventions, it seems that the type of trocar and the place from which the extruded organ is removed, if it is done without the use of an Endo-bag, are very important.

Introduction: Incisional hernia with loss of domain (IHLD) remains a surgical challenge. Its management requires complex approaches including specific preoperative and intra-operative techniques. This study focuses on the interest of adding preoperative botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection to preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP), compared to PPP alone. Material: Patients between January 2015 and March 2020 with IHLD who underwent pre-operative preparation were included. Their baseline characteristics were retrospectively analyzed, along with the characteristics of their incisional hernia before and after preparation including CT-scan volumetry. Intra-operative data, early post-operative outcomes, surgical site occurrences (SSOs) including surgical site infection (SSI) were recorded. Results: Four hundred and fifty (450) patients with incisional hernia were operated, including 41 patients (9.1%) with IHLD, 13 of which had both BTA and PPP, while 28 had PPP only. Both groups were comparable in term of patients and IHLD characteristics. Median increase in the volume of the abdominal cavity (VAbC) was + 55% for the entire population (+ 58.3% for the BTA-PPP group, p < 0.0001 and + 52.8% for the PPP-alone group, p < 0.0001) although the increase in volume was not different between the two groups (p = 0.99). Complete fascial closure was achieved in all patients. SSOs were more frequent in the PPP-alone group than in the BTA-PPP group (17 (60.7%) versus 3 (23.1%) patients, respectively, p = 0.043). Conclusion: BTA and PPP are both useful in pre-operative preparation for IHLD. Combining both significantly increases the volume of abdominal cavity but associating BTA to PPP does not add any volumetric benefit but may decrease the post-operative SSO rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Wound complications following midline laparotomies are common and the main source of postoperative morbidity including superficial or deep wound infection, skin dehiscence, fascia dehiscence, and incisional hernia. Abdominal closure complications are strongly associated with suture technique and material, in addition to other factors related to the patient and type of surgery performed. The traditional technique is to place the fascia sutures 1 cm apart and at least 1 cm away from the fascia edge. A Swedish study described a new technique of placing the sutures 5 mm apart and 5 mm away from the fascia edge, resulting in lower rates of abdominal wound complications. This study has a number of limitations. There is a need for improved quality evidence to convince the surgical community to change the closure technique of abdominal wounds aiming to reduce morbidity, which is exemplified in incisional hernias and other various postop complications. Methods This is a 1:1 randomized, controlled, patient- and assessor-blinded, parallel design, superiority trial, with a primary endpoint of incisional hernia at 1 year. The study will be conducted at AUBMC over a 3-year period. Patients planned for a non-emergent midline laparotomy for general surgery or vascular procedure will be randomized to either fascia closure technique. In order to detect a drop of 12% in the incidence of incisional hernia, with 80% power and an alpha of 0.05, we will need to recruit 114 patients per arm. After adjusting for loss to follow-up, target recruitment is 274 subjects. We will compare both arms for the primary, secondary, and exploratory outcomes, using chi-square or t test as appropriate. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression will be done. Discussion This trial will assess postop complications following abdominal midline wound closures via two different suturing techniques. This trial will generate evidence-based conclusions that will allow surgeons to assess the role of a new abdominal closure technique in decreasing short- and long-term postoperative complications, for a commonly performed procedure. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03527433 . Registered on 17 May 2018 before starting participant enrollment.

Introduction: Despite the many ways and materials available to surgeons today, correction of incisional hernias continues to be a real challenge for surgeons. Aim of the study: To show our experience in the treatment of patients with incisional hernias. Material and methods: subject of this study are 69 patients operated during the period May 2015 to May 2020 in the Clinical Hospital of Tetovo. Results: Correction of the incisional hernia in 24 patients was performed by closing the defect without the use of prosthetic materials (herniorrhaphy). In 38 patients, hernioplasty was performed using polypropylene mesh, while in six of them the correction of the defect was performed through composite dual mesh. The incidence of other complications such as operative wound infection, hematoma, seroma, postoperative pain was lower in persons where the incisional hernia was corrected with composite dual mesh Conclusion: Correction of incisional hernias with the use of prosthetic materials marks a lower rate not only of recurrence but also of other postoperative complications.

Introduction: There are several described techniques for ventral hernia mesh repair in both laparoscopic and open approach. Both approaches have their own pros and cons. Ventralex patch repair is an open technique using dual mesh in the intraperitoneal plane for ventral hernia repair. Aim: To describe an open technique with the use of ventalex patch in the repair of selected ventral hernias and to compare the open technique in terms of cost, operating time, complications and duration of hospital stay using Ventral patch and available literature for open and laparoscopic repair. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 248 patients over a period of seven years who underwent open ventral hernia repair with the Ventralex Patch, at a tertiary care hospital. A retrospective chart review and telephonic interview was conducted postoperatively and at the end of atleast 24 months to assess for outcomes, particularly recurrence. Descriptive statistics reported using frequency and percentage for categorical variables. Continuous variables were reported using mean±Standard Deviation (SD). Results: A total of 248 patients underwent hernioplasty with ventralex patch. The mean age was 50.57 years and mean BMI was 28.37 kg/m2 . The average duration of operation was 27.5 minutes and hospital stay was 2.275 days. The most common defect size was 2 cm (47.2%). The cost analysis of this technique revealed an average cost of INR 35,142 as opposed to an average cost of INR 88,601 for laparoscopic repair (including disposables) and INR 30,174 for open traditional sublay repair. Twenty-one patients developed surgical site infection (8.5%), and 27 patients (10.9%) developed seroma formation. A total of six patients developed superficial skin necrosis. The cumulative hernia recurrence rate at the end of 24 months was in 16 patients (6.5%). Conclusion: Ventralex patch repair is very efficient and effective in the treatment of selective umbilical, periumbilical, epigastric and incisional hernias with a comparable complication profile in terms of short term complications and recurrence rate compared to available literature.

Introduction: There are several described techniques for ventral hernia mesh repair in both laparoscopic and open approach. Both approaches have their own pros and cons. Ventralex patch repair is an open technique using dual mesh in the intraperitoneal plane for ventral hernia repair. Aim: To describe an open technique with the use of ventalex patch in the repair of selected ventral hernias and to compare the open technique in terms of cost, operating time, complications and duration of hospital stay with the similar studies using Ventral patch and available literature for open and laparoscopic repair. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 248 patients over a period of seven years who underwent open ventral hernia repair with the Ventralex Patch, at a tertiary care hospital. A retrospective chart review and telephonic interview was conducted postoperatively and at the end of at least 24 months to assess for outcomes, particularly recurrence. Descriptive statistics reported using frequency and percentage for categorical variables. Continuous variables were reported using mean±Standard Deviation (SD). Results: A total of 248 patients underwent hernioplasty with ventralex patch. The mean age was 50.57 years and mean BMI was 28.37 kg/m2. The average duration of operation was 27.5 minutes and hospital stay was 2.275 days. The most common defect size was 2 cm (47.2%). The cost analysis of this technique revealed an average cost of INR 35,142 as opposed to an average cost of INR 88,601 for laparoscopic repair (including disposables) and INR 30,174 for open traditional sublay repair. Twenty-one patients developed surgical site infection (8.5%), and 27 patients (10.9%) developed seroma formation. A total of six patients developed superficial skin necrosis. The cumulative hernia recurrence rate at the end of 24 months was 6.5% (16/248). Conclusion: Ventralex patch repair is very efficient and effective in the treatment of selective umbilical, periumbilical, epigastric and incisional hernias with a comparable complication profile in terms of short term complications and recurrence rate compared to available literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 55‐year‐old woman with a history of right hepatic lobectomy via a Benz incision presented for evaluation of a new abdominal bulge in the right upper quadrant. We diagnosed an incisional hernia, but because we could neither reduce the hernia contents nor locate the orifice, we performed a laparoscopic evaluation. Laparoscopy revealed subcostal herniation of the greater omentum via a 2‐cm defect on the caudal side of the right ribs, which we repaired using a Ventralex ST Hernia Patch. Laparoscopic placement of this mesh with straps allowed for reliable deployment, fixation, and confirmation of defect closure, including the cranial aspect—often a major challenge in subcostal hernia repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many abdominal-pelvic surgeries utilize incisions not along the linea alba, such as transverse, laparoscopic, ostomy reversal, or ostomy formation incisions. The prevalence of ventral incisional hernias (VIH) at these sites and the efficacy of prophylactic mesh in preventing VIH remains unclear., Methods: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from inception to September 2022. We included published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared prophylactic mesh reinforcement versus no mesh. The primary outcome was the incidence of VIH at postoperative follow-up equal to or greater than 24 months. Secondary outcomes included surgical site infection (SSI) and surgical site occurrence (SSO)., Results: Of 3186 screened articles, only 3 RCTs with at least an 80% 2-year follow-up, encompassing a total of 901 patients, were included for analysis of non-midline VIH. Fifteen additional RCTs were included for analysis of secondary outcomes. The rate of parastomal hernias with prophylactic mesh was 21%, while it ranged from 44%-64% in the control group. The rate of incisional hernia after ostomy reversal with prophylactic mesh was 10%, and 16% in the control group. No clear evidence of a difference was found in rates of SSI or SSO between groups., Conclusion: There is limited evidence on the role of prophylactic mesh in preventing non-midline VIH. More studies at low risk for bias are needed to elucidate the balance of the long-term risks and benefits of prophylactic mesh for non-midline incisions., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare they have no conflicts of interest., (© 2024 HCA Physician Services, Inc. d/b/a Emerald Medical Education.)

Background: Wound complications following midline laparotomies are common and the main source of postoperative morbidity including superficial or deep wound infection, skin dehiscence, fascia dehiscence, and incisional hernia. Abdominal closure complications are strongly associated with suture technique and material, in addition to other factors related to the patient and type of surgery performed. The traditional technique is to place the fascia sutures 1 cm apart and at least 1 cm away from the fascia edge. A Swedish study described a new technique of placing the sutures 5 mm apart and 5 mm away from the fascia edge, resulting in lower rates of abdominal wound complications. This study has a number of limitations. There is a need for improved quality evidence to convince the surgical community to change the closure technique of abdominal wounds aiming to reduce morbidity, which is exemplified in incisional hernias and other various postop complications.Methods: This is a 1:1 randomized, controlled, patient- and assessor-blinded, parallel design, superiority trial, with a primary endpoint of incisional hernia at 1 year. The study will be conducted at AUBMC over a 3-year period. Patients planned for a non-emergent midline laparotomy for general surgery or vascular procedure will be randomized to either fascia closure technique. In order to detect a drop of 12% in the incidence of incisional hernia, with 80% power and an alpha of 0.05, we will need to recruit 114 patients per arm. After adjusting for loss to follow-up, target recruitment is 274 subjects. We will compare both arms for the primary, secondary, and exploratory outcomes, using chi-square or t test as appropriate. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression will be done.Discussion: This trial will assess postop complications following abdominal midline wound closures via two different suturing techniques. This trial will generate evidence-based conclusions that will allow surgeons to assess the role of a new abdominal closure technique in decreasing short- and long-term postoperative complications, for a commonly performed procedure.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03527433 . Registered on 17 May 2018 before starting participant enrollment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The ideal location of specimen extraction in laparoscopic-assisted colorectal surgery is still debatable. Summary: The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of incisional hernias and surgical site infections in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic resection for recurrent sigmoid diverticulitis by performing specimen extraction through left lower transverse incision or Pfannenstiel-Kerr incision. Methods: A total of 269 patients operated between January 2014 and December 2017 were retrospectively screened for inclusion in the study. Patients with specimen extraction through left lower transverse incision (LLT) and patients with specimen extraction through Pfannenstiel-K incision (P-K) were matched in 1:1 proportion regarding age, sex, comorbidities, and previous abdominal surgery. The incidence of incisional hernias and surgical site infections were compared by using Fisher's exact test. Results: After matching 77 patients in the LLT group and 77 patients in the P-K group, they were found to be homogenous regarding the above mentioned descriptive characteristics. No patients in the P-K group developed an incisional hernia compared with 10 patients (13%) in the LLT group (p = 0.001). All these patients required hernia repair with mesh augmentation. The rate of surgical site infections was 1/77 in the P-K group and 0/77 in the LLT group (p = 1.0). In the P-K group, a wound protector was used in 86% of patients whereas in the LLT group, 39% of the wounds were protected during specimen extraction (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The Pfannenstiel-Kerr incision may be the preferred extraction site compared with the left lower transverse incision given the significant reduction of the risk of incisional hernias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MODIFIED SHOELACE REPAIR OF LARGE ABDOMINAL INCISIONAL HERNIAS Ali Abdul-Aziz Al-Shawi MB,ChB, FICMS, CABS, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chancellor Missan University, Missan, IRAQ. Abstract This study aimed to evaluate modified shoelace darn repair. An abdominal incisional hernia represent defect in the musculo-fascial layers of the abdominal wall. It considers one of the commonest hernia in middle aged women. surgical site wound infection is the most common causative factor and there are different method of surgical repair. This prospective study was conducted on 127 patients of incisional hernia who were managed by modified shoelace darn procedure, they had reinforce the repair by onlay mesh to bridge the defect in anterior rectus sheath. The highest proportion of patients aged 41-50 years (37% with a mean of 43.6 years). Regarding distribution of gender, the pattern was similar in both sexes. Most of the patients were overweight (76.4%). Further 14.9% were obese and only 7.9% were normal, 29.9% developed some kind of complication. The recurrence rate was 1.6%. In conclusion, modified shoelace darn repair is simple, safe, extra-peritoneal with less tissue damage and it seems a good surgical technique for management of large ventral incisional hernia.

Background: Debate persists on the optimal management of incisional hernias due to paucity of accurate recurrence rates. Reoperation rates implicate a severe underestimation of the risk of a recurrence. Therefore, long-term postoperative clinic visits allowing physical examination of the abdomen are deemed necessary. However, these are time and costs consuming. Aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a new screenings method for recurrent hernias, the 'PINCH-Phone' (Post-INCisional-Hernia repair-Phone).Methods: The PINCH-Phone is a telephone questionnaire. In this multicenter prospective study, the PINCH-Phone was answered by patients after incisional hernia repair. Afterwards the patients were seen at the clinic and physical examination was done to detect any recurrences.Results: The PINCH-Phone questions were answered by 210 patients with a median postoperative follow-up of 36 months. Fifty-six patients were seen after multiple incisional hernia repairs. In 137 patients who had replied positively to one or more questions, 28 recurrent incisional hernias were detected at physical examination. Six recurrences were noted in 73 patients who had replied negatively to all questions. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the PINCH-Phone were 82% and 38%, respectively.Conclusion: The PINCH-Phone appears a simple and valuable screenings method for recurrences after incisional hernia repair and, hence, is recommended for implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A hernia containing Meckel's diverticulum is called a Littre's Hernia. It's a rare entity and its diagnosis is often incidental during routine hernia repair surgery. The objective of this study is the evaluation of the current evidence on Littre's hernias regarding their clinical presentation and optimal treatment approach.Methods: PubMed and Cochrane bibliographical databases were searched from the beginning of time (last search: August 1st, 2018) for studies reporting on Littre's hernias in adult population.Results: Forty-five studies met our inclusion criteria and reported collectively on 53 patients (21 males and 32 females) presenting at health care units with a Littre's hernia. The most common sites of occurrence were femoral (39.6%) and inguinal (34%). The vast majority of cases (77.4%) concerned incarcerated hernias. All patients underwent surgical hernia repair accompanied by a diverticulectomy and 16.9% of them received mesh. Only 7.5% of patients experienced immediate postoperative complications.Conclusions: A Littre hernia is a rare complication of Meckel's diverticulum. It requires surgical attention and all medical professionals should be encouraged to report such cases to expand our experience and optimize the therapeutic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper was to present current state of knowledge and clinical practice in the scope of imaging of anterior abdominal wall hernias. At the moment, diagnostic imaging of abdominal wall hernias utilizes such modalities as ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance. The two latter methods are not easily available, expensive and usually require filling the intestine with contrast medium or, at times, additional administration of intravenous contrast. Moreover, computed tomography exposes the patient to negative effects of ionizing radiation, and both modalities are contraindicated in claustrophobic patients or patients with renal failure when examination requires intravenous administration of contrast. Under such circumstances, ultrasound examination constitutes the basis of imaging in cases of suspected anterior abdominal wall hernias and in patients with palpable masses in such a location. It ensues from high availability, low cost, noninvasiveness and high diagnostic value of this modality as well as its applicability in all life periods – from foetal life up to old age. Other advantages of ultrasonography include: possibility to conduct the examination dynamically at patient’s bedside, including application of various tests facilitating diagnosis of small, spontaneously reducing and immovable inguinal, femoral, or umbilical hernias, hernia of the linea alba, Spigelian hernia, or various other incisional hernias that pose diagnostic challenges. Ultrasound examination allows for assessment of the size and content of the hernia sac with great precision. Some diagnosticians use the ultrasound probe to exert pressure in an attempt to place the hernia back into the abdominal cavity. Moreover, the above-mentioned method effectively visualizes any complications related to surgical reconstruction of the abdominal wall, such as pathological fluid-filled spaces, recurrent hernias, or tissue reactions to surgical material. All other pathologies of the abdominal wall that might imitate hernias are within the scope of ultrasound examination. All of the mentioned advantages of ultrasound lose significance if the doctor performing this examination lacks proper theoretical and practical background.

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Background and Objectives: In order to avoid potential complications from incisional hernias in patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic procedures with 10 mm or larger ports, a surgeon closes the fascial defects using various techniques. We compared several different techniques of port site closure, which uses the open technique that can be performed with or without laparoscopic visualization. We modified the technique initially described by Dr. H. Aziz. We are introducing a new surgical technique to close the larger port site using Graham's nerve-hook. This new technique is easy to learn, replicate and implement for all body types., Methods: We use the commonly available Graham's nerve-hook and two S-retractors to visualize the entire layers of fascia and peritoneum and to pull up both layers to close the larger port site safely and securely with 0 polyglactin absorbable suture. We illustrated this new Lee's port site closure technique with eight separate drawings in this paper., Results: We performed 493 consecutive laparoscopic cases using this new technique. Four years follow up revealed only one incisional hernia using this technique. The patients are routinely followed in one month and six months and a year after the operation. However, not all of the patients are seen after six months unless there was a specific complaint., Conclusion: The new port site closure technique introduced in this paper is found to be easy to learn, fast, and very cost effective due to the reusable, commonly found S-retractors and Graham's nerve hook. After four years of consistent use, this new technique was found to be safe and effective in closure of 10 mm or larger port sites., Competing Interests: Conflict of interests: none., (© 2023 by SLS, Society of Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeons.)

Background: The association between extraction site location, robotic trocar size, and the incidence of incisional hernias in robotic colorectal surgery remain unclear. Laparoscopic literature reports variable rates of incisional hernias versus open surgery, and variable rates of trocar site hernias. However, conclusions from these studies are confusing due to heterogeneity in closure techniques and may not be generalized to robotic cases. This study evaluates the effect of extraction site location on incisional hernia rates, as well as trocar hernia rates in robotic colorectal surgery.Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of multiport and single incision robotic colorectal surgeries from a single institution was performed. Patients underwent subtotal, segmental, or proctocolectomies, and were compared based on the extraction site through either a muscle-splitting (MS) or midline (ML) incision. Hernias were identified by imaging and/or physical exam. Demographics and risk factors for hernias were assessed. Groups were compared using a multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results: The study included 259 colorectal surgery patients comprising 146 with MS and 113 with ML extraction sites. Postoperative computed tomograms were performed on 155 patients (59.8 %) with a mean follow-up of 16.5 months. The overall incisional hernia rate was 5.8 %. A significantly higher hernia rate was found among the ML group compared to the MS group (12.4 vs. 0.68 %, p < 0.0001). Of the known risk factors assessed, only increased BMI was associated with incisional hernias (OR 1.18). No trocar site hernias were found.Conclusion: Midline extraction sites are associated with a significantly increased rate of incisional hernias compared to muscle-splitting extraction sites. There is little evidence to recommend fascia closure of 8-mm trocar sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents abstracts of several research papers on incisional hernia including laparoscopic post-traumatic lumbar hernia repair, laparoscopic management of diastasis recti and incisional hernia M3 W3 repaired by laparoscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair is followed by a high rate of incisional herniation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether this postoperative complication could be avoided by a prophylactic implantation of a biological mesh.Methods: In a prospective randomized clinical study, patients electively treated by open AAA repair were allocated equally to routine abdominal suture closure or to prophylactic placement of bovine pericardium mesh above the fascia. The study end points were postoperative complications and incidence of incisional hernia at a 3-year follow up.Results: Forty patients with a mean age of 74.3 (SD ± 5.8) years were studied. All patients had a successful operation and a quite uneventful postoperative course. The mean operative time in the mesh group was longer compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Two patients in the mesh group developed wound seroma postoperatively. Six patients (30%) in the control group developed incisional hernia comparing to none in the mesh group. Cumulative proportion of freedom from incisional hernia was 100% for mesh group at 3 years and 74.4% (SE 9.9%) for control group at 2 years (p < 0.008). In five patients (83%), the incisional hernia was diagnosed by the second postoperative year. One patient underwent incisional hernia repair.Conclusion: The bovine pericardium mesh reinforcement of fascia closure in patients undergoing open AAA repair showed effectiveness and low complication rate in prophylaxis from incisional herniation. It should be considered as an alternative mesh material in selected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within five years, between 2006 and 2011, a total of 368 incisional hernias have been operated in the Surgery Clinic 1, University Emergency Hospital Bucharest. The study followed the morphological and biological parameters, associated pathology, tactics and surgical technique used and postoperative morbidity. The average age of patients was 61.75 years, female sex was predominant (81.25%), and incisional hernias were large and giant in a percentage of 73.37%. Locations were predominantly median (83.42%). Recurrent incisional hernias and multiple relapsed hernias represented 25.54%. Associated pathology was dominated by obesity (51,09%) and cardiovascular disease (37,77%). We have used both methods of tissue procedures (22.83%), and the prosthetic procedures (77.17%). Prosthetic techniques, retro muscle fitting mesh in the rectus abdominis muscle sheath (Rives-Stoppa technique), fitting over the fascia and tissue replacement techniques were performed. Immediate postoperative morbidity was represented by seroma (14.13%), prolonged postoperative ileus (8.69%), prolonged hematic drainage (6.52%), and hematoma (1.9%). Late postoperative morbidity was given by granulomas (5.7%) and recurrence of incisional hernias (4.34%). Good and very good results were obtained in the 89.96% of the operated cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The components separation technique (CST) is a widely described abdominal wall reconstructive technique. There have, however, been no UK reports of its use, prompting the present review. Methods: Between 2008 and 2012, 13 patients who underwent this procedure by a single plastic surgeon (C.M.M.) were retrospectively evaluated. The indications, operative details, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Results: There were 7 women and 6 men in the series with a mean age of 53 years (range: 30-80). Patients were referred from a variety of specialties, often as a last resort. The commonest indication for CST was herniation following abdominal surgery. All operations except 1 were jointly performed with general surgeons (for bowel resection, stoma reversal, and hernia dissection). The operations lasted a mean of 5 hours (range: 3-8 hours). There were no major intra- and postoperative problems, except in 1 patient who developed intra-abdominal compartment syndrome, secondary to massive hemorrhage. All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic improvement in their abdominal contours. None of the patients have developed a clinical recurrence after a mean follow-up of 16 months (range: 3-38 months). Conclusions: The components separation technique is an effective method of treating large recalcitrant hernias but appears to be underutilized in the United Kingdom. The management of large abdominal wall defects requires a multidisciplinary approach, with input across a variety of specialities. Liaison with plastic surgery teams should be encouraged at an early stage and the CST should be more widely considered when presented with seemingly intractable abdominal wall defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incisional hernia repair sometimes requires intraperitoneal implantation of a mesh. This becomes necessary when the hernia opening is large, in particular, in patients with a low abdominal wall surface/wall defect surface (AWS/WDS) ratio, in large boundary incisional hernias where the proximity to bone structures or cartilage often complicates retromuscular mesh implantation and in multi-recurrent incisional hernias that are sometimes characterised by an actual loss of abdominal wall tissue. The authors report on the results of a series of 100 incisional hernias treated between 1999 and 2006 using the open technique to implant an intraperitoneal mesh (Parietex Composite). Mean follow-up time was 42 months (range 12-96 months). The mean wall defect surface was 95 cm (range 60-210 cm). Twelve percent of patients suffered minor complications: 5 seromas (5%), 3 haematomas (3%) and 4 parietal suppurations (4%). No mesh had to be removed. The recurrence rate was 6%. At 6 months after surgery, no patient lamented pain or discomfort due to foreign body sensation. None of these patients presented intestinal occlusion or enterocutaneous fistulae. In conclusion, it is our opinion that the mesh should be implanted in direct contact with the viscera only where absolutely necessary, i.e., when it cannot be implanted in the retromuscular area without creating excessive parietal tension. Our experience with PC mesh, over the short-to-medium term, was positive. Naturally, further studies are required to evaluate long-term biocompatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This report reviews the clinical and functional outcomes of implanted meshes during a second-look evaluation of 85 cases after a large number (733) of laparoscopic incisional and ventral hernia repairs (LIVHR), of which 608 were controlled throughout a period of 5 to 10 years. This report demonstrates a minimal occurrence of adhesions and a low rate of recurrences and other complications related to mesh usage. Methods: Eighty-five re-operated cases after LIVHR were reviewed retrospectively. In every redo surgery, the first trocar was always inserted on a lateral side, external to the previous skin incisions of the transabdominal fixations. Mueller's adhesion scale was used to estimate adhesion severity (Mueller 0 indicates no adhesion; Mueller I indicates adhesion of the omentum; and Mueller II indicates serosal adhesions). The mechanism of recurrence is of paramount interest and is analyzed herein. If recurrence was observed, the defect was closed and a larger mesh of Parietex™ was implanted under the previous one, with transparietal fixation achieved by pulling the threads with the Endoclose device. Results: In all of our 'second-look' surgeries, the neoperitoneum perfectly covered the mesh. In 47.05% of the cases, we observed no adhesions (Mueller 0), 42.3% had adhesions of the omentum (Mueller I), and 10.58% had serosal adhesions (Mueller II). There was no shrinking or wrinkling of the prosthesis in any of the cases, confirming its total peritonization on the anterior abdominal wall. Within the first 3 years, only 4.1% of the controlled patients contracted recurrences, with a mean follow-up of 52 months. Conclusion: With the double-suturing technique used for LIVHR and the use of a composite mesh, we observed a low rate of recurrences and limited side effects as compared with the use of tacks intra-abdominally. Redo surgeries after LIVHR are feasible, but care must be taken due to unpredictable mesh adhesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on a new method of incisional hernia repair applicable to any size of hernia and the long-term results of this method. Musculus rectus abdominis is bandaged or partially bandaged in a loose way with a 2-cm-wide band of polypropylene (Prolene®) on both sides at a distance of 2 cm, depending on the size of the hernial opening. The aims of this technique, which were defined in 1999 when we started using the method, were to find a simple method for surgeons, a safe mesh fixation and the prevention of a postoperative stiff abdomen. Another aim was to find a method for optimal patient care at reasonable costs. Two hundred and seventeen patients underwent an operation according to this method in our department from June 1999 until December 2007. The first 75 patients of this cohort were treated using a technique in which the musculus rectus abdominis was bandaged in a loose way. One hundred and forty-two patients (since October 2001) were treated using a technique in which the muscle was not entirely bandaged. Instead, the polypropylene bands, which had been placed in sublay position, were penetrating the lateral rim through incisions and were fastened there. We included 124 patients (October 2001 to December 2006) in our further examination with a follow-up of 17–79 months. We found a recurrence rate of 6%, 80.1% of the patients had no trouble, 18.1% of the patients had very rarely any complaint, 0.9% of the patients had problems after exercise and 0.9% had permanent problems. All patients had excellent mobility of the abdomen. This method was proven to give good results in the long run and can be easily learned by any surgeon. This method is a true alternative to all methods which have been published so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Incisional hernias form after surgery through incision sites and can enlarge over time. Relations between body image (BI) and health locus of control (HLC) were investigated in male patients undergoing evaluation for incisional hernia repair (n =32) and non-hernia controls (n =34). Analyses revealed that patients with incisional hernias reported significantly less satisfaction with general appearance and appearance of the mid-torso than non-hernia controls. Although HLC beliefs did not vary by group, post hoc analyses revealed several significant relations between BI factors and HLC beliefs. Results suggest that poor BI is a significant area of concern among patients with incisional hernias. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Incisional hernias represent one of the most common complications after laparotomy. Specific pre-operative risk factors have not yet been identified. Recent studies indicate that changes in extracellular matrix components such as collagen I and collagen III may be involved in hernia development. In the present study we have evaluated the significance of fibrillin-1 in hernia development as one of the main components of the extracellular matrix. Tissue samples from non-scar skin and muscle fascia of 12 patients with incisional hernias as well as from the respective scar tissues were obtained. Corresponding tissue samples of 10 patients with normal postoperative wound healing served as controls. Distribution of fibrillin-1 was evaluated immunohistochemically. Differences in fibrillin-1 distribution in the non-scar tissues of muscle fascia have been found in patients with incisional hernia, compared to those without hernia. In scar regions of both patient groups, slight differences in the pattern of fibrillin-1 were observed. A tendency to a differential deposition of fibrillin-1 in skin samples, although hardly quantifiable, was observed as well. Our results suggest that fibrillin-1 is a relevant factor contributing to tissue stability. Disturbances in its deposition, even before scar formation, may be an important factor to the development of incisional hernias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The authors describe a minimally invasive treatment of moderate to large incisional and ventral hernia defects using Parietex composite mesh.Methods: All defects are closed laparoscopically or through a minilaparotomy using sutures, and the composite mesh is fixed intraperitonally using transabdominal fixation with nonabsorbable sutures to avoid the use of staple or tack fixation, which has been associated with various complications, including major loop adhesion and mesh migration. The midterm results for 400 patients are presented in terms of efficacy and safety.Results: During a mean follow-up period of 28 months for 80% of the patients, the median operating time was 74 min and the median hospital stay was 3 days. There were eight seromas (2%), all on large defects. Transient pain was experienced by 10 patients (2.5%), and resolved over time with analgesic treatment. There was one early case of sepsis (0.25%), attributable to secondary breakdown of the bowel wall in a case of recurrent incisional hernia, which led to removal of the mesh. Residual chronic parietal pain was reported for 10 patients (2.5%), 2 of whom were released after excision of neuroma; 3 trocar-site herniations (0.75%); and lipoma formation on the site of the hernia sac in 6 cases (1.5%).Conclusion: Laparoscopic ventral hernia treatment using Parietex composite mesh is an effective and safe procedure. Morbidity and recurrence rates are low, and the 2-year outcomes are promising, with no prosthesis migration or complication related to intraperitoneal positioning of the mesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to establish the efficacy and tolerability of human fibrin glue (Tissucol) for the nontraumatic fixation of a composite prosthesis (Parietex) in the laparoscopic repair of small to medium-sized incisional hernias and primary defects of the abdominal wall.Materials and Methods: From October 2003 to October 2005, 40 patients underwent laparoscopic repair at the hands of one surgeon with expertise in laparoscopic surgery; all meshes were implanted in an intraperitoneal position. Follow-up visits were scheduled for 7 days and 1, 6, and 12 months. These included assessments for pain and postoperative complications.Results: Forty patients (24 females, 16 males) with a mean age of 50 years (range, 26-65 years) and a mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 (range 25 to 30) were included in the study. Sixteen patients had incisional hernias, and 24 had primary defects. The size of the defects varied from 2 to 7 cm. Adhesiolysis was necessary in 92.5% of cases (25/40). There were no intraoperative complications or conversions. After a mean follow-up of 16 months (range, 3-24 months), no postoperative complications were observed. The mean surgical intervention time was 36 min (range, 12-40 min), with an average hospitalization time of 1 day.Conclusions: The use of fibrin glue in the present study provided stable and uniform fixation of the prosthesis and minimized intraoperative and postoperative complications. Consequently, laparoscopic treatment of small to medium-sized abdominal defects using this approach is our therapeutic option of choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The authors analyse the results of a prospective study on the use of a new type of composite mesh, Parietex Composite (PC) (Sofradim, France), positioned intraperitoneally in incisional hernias.Methods: Twenty-six patients (9 men, 17 women), aged 51 on average (range 33-79), were treated with this mesh. Twenty-four patients underwent open surgery. Indications were: ventral hernias that were big, on the border, multirecurrent, or larger than 10 cm with important associated pathologies. Only two patients with small hernias were treated laparoscopically.Results: The average follow-up of our survey was 15 months (range 6-24). All patients underwent ultrasound scans of the abdomen before surgery and 6 months after the operation, according to the Sigel technique, in order to detect the presence of visceral adhesions to the mesh. In 23 patients (88%), the bowel's motions, both spontaneous and induced, were in a normal range. We had neither intestinal occlusions nor fistulae. No deaths occurred. Postoperative complications were minor: two seromas (8%), one hematoma (4%), two parietal suppurations (8%). No mesh was removed. Only one recurrence occurred (4%).Conclusions: Our preliminary experience with PC is so positive that this mesh is currently the one of choice in our department when an intraperitoneal implant is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The late appearance of incisional hernias several years after laparotomy and the high recurrence rates after operation strongly imply the presence of a disorder of the connective tissue, although a specific defect in patients with incisional hernias has not yet been identified. In the present study we used both immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis to evaluate the ratio of collagen I and III and the expression of the metalloproteinases (MMP) 1 and 13 in the fascia of patients with incisional or recurrent incisional hernias. Samples of healthy skin or stable skin scar in patients without hernias served as controls. Altogether, our data indicated a significantly decreased ratio of collagen I/III in the fascia of patients with incisional hernias and recurrent incisional hernias. Furthermore, in these patients the expression of MMP-1 was decreased compared to the controls, whereas MMP-13 could not be detected in any fascia sample, with or without hernias present. For the first time, our results give evidence of the existence of a possible collagen disorder in these patients. The decreased ratio of collagen I/III is explainable due to a relative increase of collagen type III, which is known to be characterized by thin fibril diameters and lowered mechanical strength. The altered collagen ratio might be the result of the decreased activity of MMP-1, whereas the absent MMP-13 expression did not seem to modify the scar formation. Thus, our data indicate the presence of collagen metabolic disorders in patients with incisional hernias and recurrent incisional hernias. Furthermore, these results might explain the poor results of a mesh-free hernia repair, which again builds up scar tissue of inadequate collagen composition and strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors report their experience in the use of heterologous prostheses in incisional hernias at risk of infection. 45 out of 260 large incisional hernias (17.3%) were treated with nonabsorbable heterologous prostheses between January 1 1984 and January 1 1999. The literature shows a particular rigor in the treatment of incisional hernias, as in the French research by Chevrel and Flament [1990], where, in 1078 cases, the surgeons used autoplasty, relaxing techniques and, sometimes, absorbable prostheses, choosing to delay definitive treatment. The present authors deal with a series of cases treated with nonabsorbable prostheses. Even in incisional hernias at risk of infection, particularly with associated visceral surgery, the use of synthetic meshes has given encouraging results. The low incidence of suppurative complications, with neither removal of the patch nor recurrences in the short term, shows that this is a safe and definitive cure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incisional hernias are frequent complications after laparotomy. Extended subcutaneous tissue dissection is often necessary for the treatment of large incisional hernias, and this procedure is frequently followed by a high intensity pain in the postoperative period. The aim of this study was to assess the postoperative patient comfort without using major analgesics. Material and method: we present the preliminary results of an ongoing study from Surgery Clinic 1 of Emergency Clinical County Hospital of Târgu Mures, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Târgu Mures. The study comprises in the intraoperative insertion of a subcutaneous catheter (Pajunk InfiltraLong) placed on lay, through which we administered continuously Ropivacaine 0,5%. Results: Ten patients have been included in the study by now. For 5 of the patients the wound infiltration was started with 7 ml/h in the first 6 postoperative hours, after which the rate decreased to 5 ml/h until the end of the 72 hours, when the catheter was removed. For 2 patients the wound infiltration was started with 10ml/h in the first 6 postoperative hours, after which the rate decreased to 7 ml/h in the first day, followed by 5 ml/h for the next two days. Two patients needed a minor analgesic in the immediate postoperative period and one patient needed major analgesia in the first 24 hours. Conclusions: By using this method, postoperative analgesia can be achieved without using major systemic analgesics and a superior patient comfort can be achieved simply by adjusting the infusion rate [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]