Validation of a questionnaire for the assessment of pain following ventral hernia repair--the VHPQ

Reliability and validity of surface EMG assessments combined with isometric muscle strength testing in patients with abdominal rectus diastasis and asymptomatic controls

PURPOSE

Patients with abdominal rectus diastasis (ARD) may have muscular functional impairments, but clinics lack appropriate objective assessment tools. The aim was to establish the relative and absolute reliability, and convergent validity, of muscular activity using Surface Electromyography (SEMG) during isometric abdominal muscle strength testing in patients with ARD and controls without ARD.

METHODS

Twenty-six patients with ARD were matched for age, sex and BMI with controls without ARD. Participants were tested twice during isometric muscular contractions using SEMG located on six abdominal sites. Mean amplitude, fatigue, and recruitment order were analyzed. Relative reliability was evaluated with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), while absolute reliability was estimated by calculating the Standard Error of Measurement and Minimal Detectable Change. Convergent validity was addressed in relation to participant characteristics, functional ability, and symptoms.

RESULTS

Mean SEMG amplitude for all abdominal wall muscle contractions showed moderate to excellent relative test-retest reliability, with ICC values ranging from 0.46 to 0.97. In contrast, fatigue and recruitment order displayed poor to moderate relative reliability in both groups. Absolute reliability measures were generally high. A moderate to high convergent validity (ARD: rho-value 0.41-0.70; Controls: rho-value 0.41-0.75) was observed for mean amplitude in relation to a functional sit-to-stand test, abdominal circumference, BMI, back pain, and quality-of-life.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of applying SEMG during isometric abdominal muscle support practicing the method in clinics, although additional development is needed with further standardization and more functional testing. Furthermore, the method demonstrates construct validity in patients with ARD and in age- and sex-matched controls.

A Scoping Review of Quality-of-Life Assessments Employed in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

Surgeons use several quality-of-life instruments to track outcomes following abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR); however, there is no universally agreed upon instrument. We review the instruments used in AWR and report their utilization trends within the literature.

METHODS

This scoping review was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines using the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane databases. All published articles in the English language that employed a quality-of-life assessment for abdominal wall hernia repair were included. Studies which focused solely on aesthetic abdominoplasty, autologous breast reconstruction, rectus diastasis, pediatric patients, inguinal hernia, or femoral hernias were excluded.

RESULTS

Six hernia-specific tools and six generic health tools were identified. The Hernia-Related Quality-of-Life Survey and Carolinas Comfort Scale are the most common hernia-specific tools, while the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) is the most common generic health tool. Notably, the SF-36 is also the most widely used tool for AWR outcomes overall. Each tool captures a unique set of patient outcomes which ranges from abdominal wall functionality to mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of AWR have been widely studied with several different assessments proposed and used over the past few decades. These instruments allow for patient assessment of pain, quality of life, functional status, and mental health. Commonly used tools include the Hernia-Related Quality-of-Life Survey, Carolinas Comfort Scale, and SF-36. Due to the large heterogeneity of available instruments, future work may seek to determine or develop a standardized instrument for characterizing AWR outcomes.

Autologous full-thickness skin in the repair of complex ventral hernias: an innovative step into the future of complex hernia repair?

The repair of complex ventral hernias, such as giant incisional or parastomal hernia, is associated with a high risk for complications and recurrence. Some serious complications are related to implantation of synthetic mesh as reinforcement material. Autologous full-thickness skin graft (FTSG) as reinforcement material in the repair of these complex hernias may offer a safe alternative. This is a review of the history of FTSG use in hernia surgery and the experiences of our research group regarding its application over the last decade. The results of FTSG used in the repair of giant ventral hernias are promising, and this method may already be recommended in selected cases. We have also conducted a translational chain of preclinical studies, based on a murine model, to gain a greater understanding of the behaviour of FTSG implanted in various positions in the abdominal wall. The use of intraperitoneal FTSG as reinforcement material in parastomal hernia repair is currently being evaluated in a randomised, controlled, multicentre study.

Long-term follow-up of full-thickness skin grafting in giant incisional hernia repair: a randomised controlled trial

Purpose

Conventional repair of a giant incisional hernia often requires implantation of a synthetic mesh (SM). However, this surgical procedure can lead to discomfort, pain, and potentially serious complications. Full-thickness skin grafting (FTSG) could offer an alternative to SM, less prone to complications related to implantation of a foreign body in the abdominal wall. The aim of this study was to compare the use of FTSG to conventional SM in the repair of giant incisional hernia.

Methods

Patients with a giant incisional hernia (> 10 cm width) were randomised to repair with either FTSG or SM. 3-month and 1-year follow-ups have already been reported. A clinical follow-up was performed 3 years after repair, assessing potential complications and recurrence. SF-36, EQ-5D and VHPQ questionnaires were answered at 3 years and an average of 9 years (long-term follow-up) after surgery to assess the impact of the intervention on quality-of-life (QoL).

Results

Fifty-two patients were included. Five recurrences in the FTSG group and three in the SM group were noted at the clinical follow-up 3 years after surgery, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.313). No new procedure-related complication had occurred since the one-year follow-up. There were no relevant differences in QoL between the groups. However, there were significant improvemnts in both physical, emotional, and mental domains of the SF-36 questionnaire in both groups.

Conclusion

The results of this long-term follow-up together with the results from previous follow-ups indicate that autologous FTSG as reinforcement in giant incisional hernia repair is an alternative to conventional repair with SM.

Trial Registration

The study was registered August 10, 2011 at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID NCT01413412), retrospectively registered.

Autologous full-thickness skin graft as reinforcement in parastomal hernia repair: a randomised controlled trial

Background

Parastomal hernia is a common complication of an enterostomy and can have a significant impact on health-related quality of life. Currently used methods of repair have high recurrence rates and considerable risk for complications. We have developed a new technique for parastomal hernia repair that uses full-thickness skin graft as reinforcement.

Methods

This study protocol describes a multicentre randomised controlled trial on parastomal hernia repair comparing a new full-thickness skin graft technique with conventional synthetic composite mesh as reinforcement of the abdominal wall. Patients with a symptomatic parastomal hernia will be included and followed up at 3, 12 and 36 months, with surgical complication as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes will be recurrence rate and health-related quality of life assessed with VHPQ, EORTC C30 and CR29. Tissue biology and collagen metabolism will be investigated pre- and postoperatively using biopsies of the abdominal wall fascia and blood samples.

Discussion

Parastomal hernia constitutes a major clinical problem where the prospects of a good result after hernia repair are presently poor. This new method of repair with full-thickness skin grafting could be a new alternative in our surgical toolbox, but before then, it must be evaluated properly.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03667287. Registered on September 12, 2018

Postoperative Pain After Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair

Background: Robot-assisted ventral hernia repair, when performed correctly, may reduce the risk for pain and discomfort in the postoperative period thus enabling shorter hospital stay. The aim of the present study was to evaluate postoperative pain following robot-assisted laparoscopic repair. The approach was selected after an intraoperative decision to complete the repair as: (1). Transabdominal Preperitoneal Repair (TAPP); (2). Trans-Abdominal RetroMuscular (TARM) repair; or (3). Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) repair depending on anatomical conditions.

Methods: Twenty ventral hernia repairs, 8 primary and 12 incisional, were included between 18th Dec 2017 and 11th Nov 2019. There were 8 women, mean age was 60.3 years, and mean diameter of the defect was 3.8 cm. The repairs were performed at Södersjukhuset (Southern General Hospital, Stockholm) using the Da Vinci Si Surgical System®. Sixteen repairs were completed with the TAPP technique, 2 with the TARM technique, and 2 as IPOM repair.

Results: Mean hospital stay was 1.05 days. No postoperative infection was seen, and no recurrence was seen at 1 year. At the 30-day follow-up, fifteen patients (75%) rated their pain as zero or pain that was easily ignored, according to the Ventral Hernia Pain Questionnaire. After 1 year no one had pain that was not easily ignored.

Conclusion: The present study shows that robot-assisted laparoscopic ventral hernia is feasible and safe. More randomized controlled trials are needed to show that the potential benefits in terms of shorter operation times, earlier discharge, and less postoperative pain motivate the extra costs associated with the robot technique.

SUMMER Trial: mesh versus suture repair in small umbilical hernias in adults-a study protocol for a prospective randomized double-blind multicenter clinical trial

Background

Small umbilical hernia repair is one of the most common surgical performances in general surgery. Yet, a gold standard procedure for the repair is still lacking today. There is an increasing evidence that mesh could be advantageous compared to suture repair in lowering recurrence rates. An additional important question remains with regard to the optimal anatomical positioning of the mesh. We hypothesize that the use of an onlay mesh in small umbilical hernia defects can reduce recurrence rates without increasing the complications compared to a simple suture repair.

Methods

A prospective, national, multicenter, randomized, double-blind clinical trial comparing a standardized 4 × 4 cm onlay mesh to a conventional suture repair will be conducted. A total of 288 patients with a primary elective umbilical hernia ≤ 2 cm from 7 participating Swedish surgical centers will be enrolled. Intraoperative randomization will take place using a centralized web-based system resulting in total allocation concealment. Stratification will be done by surgical site and by defect size. Trial participants and follow-up clinical surgeons will be blinded to the assigned allocation. The primary outcome assessed will be postoperative recurrence at 1 and 3 years. Secondary outcomes assessed will be postoperative complications at 30 days and pain 1 year after surgery.

Discussion

Currently, there has been no randomized clinical trial comparing the recurrence rates between an onlay mesh repair and a simple suture repair for small umbilical hernia defects. How to best repair a small umbilical hernia continues to be debated. This trial design should allow for a good assessment of the differences in recurrence rate due to the large sample size and the adequate follow-up. Surgeons’ concerns surrounding optimal anatomical positioning and fear for larger required dissections are understandable. A small onlay mesh may become an easy and safe method of choice to reduce recurrence rates. Guidelines for small umbilical hernia repairs have stressed the need for reliable data to improve treatment recommendations. We can expect that this trial will have a direct implication on small umbilical hernia repair standards.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04231071. Registered on 31 January 2020. SUMMER Trial underwent external peer review as part of the funding process.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Incisional Hernia Repair: Long-Term Follow-up Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

Long-term extension of a previous randomized controlled clinical trial comparing open (OVHR) vs. laparoscopic (LVHR) ventral hernia repair, assessing recurrence, reoperation, mesh-related complications and self-reported quality of life with 10 years of follow-up.

METHODS

Eighty-five patients were followed up to assess recurrence (main endpoint), reoperation, mesh complications and death, from the date of index until recurrence, death or study completion, whichever was first. Recurrence, reoperation rates and death were estimated by intention to treat. Mesh-related complications were only assessed in the LVHR group, excluding conversions (intraperitoneal onlay; n = 40). Quality of life, using the European Hernia Society Quality of Life score, was assessed in surviving non-reoperated patients (n = 47).

RESULTS

The incidence rates with 10 person-years of follow-up were 21.01% (CI 13.24-33.36) for recurrence, 11.92% (CI: 6.60-21.53) for reoperation and 24.88% (CI 16.81-36.82) for death. Sixty-two percent of recurrences occurred within the first 2 years of follow-up. No significant differences between arms were found in any of the outcomes analyzed. Incidence rate of intraperitoneal mesh complications with 10 person-years of follow-up was 6.15% (CI 1.99-19.09). The mean EuraHS-QoL score with 13.8 years of mean follow-up for living non-reoperated patients was 6.63 (CI 4.50-8.78) over 90 possible points with no significant differences between arms.

CONCLUSION

In incisional ventral hernias with wall defects up to 15 cm wide, laparoscopic repair seems to be as safe and effective as open techniques, with no long-term differences in recurrence and reoperation rates or global quality of life, although lack of statistical power does not allow definitive conclusions on equivalence between alternatives.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04192838).

Patient-reported outcome measures of abdominal wall morbidity after flank incision for open partial nephrectomy

OBJECTIVE

To compare patient-reported outcome measures in patients with and without abdominal wall complications after open partial nephrectomy (OPN) via flank incision.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patient-reported outcome measures were collected in 2017 from all patients operated on with OPN via flank incision between 2004 and 2016 in Västerbotten County, Sweden. Patients were mailed the ventral hernia pain questionnaire (VHPQ) and an abdominal wall asymmetry (AWA) questionnaire to evaluate postoperative AWA, attributed to bulge or incisional hernia. Demographic and follow-up data were retrieved from patient records.

RESULTS

A total of 198 patients were eligible for the study, and 146 questionnaires were returned (74%). Forty-five patients (31%) reported postoperative AWA and 27 (18%) reported ongoing pain. Three patients who reported AWA had a known incisional hernia. Pain and abdominal wall stiffness were more common in patients with AWA than in those without (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively). Of the 45 patients with AWA, 25 (56%) reported this as being negative cosmetically and 16 (36%) as negative regarding activities. Patients that reported AWA were younger and had a higher body mass index at surgery (P = 0.03 and 0.04, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Abdominal wall asymmetry is a common sequel of flank incision for OPN and is associated with a higher incidence of chronic pain and abdominal stiffness compared to absence of postoperative AWA. Some patients reported that the effect on daily activities and the cosmetic effect caused by AWA had a negative impact on their quality of life.

Reliability, validity, and responsiveness of multidimensional pain assessment tools used in postoperative adult patients: a systematic review of measurement properties

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize the best available evidence relating to the measurement properties of the multidimensional pain assessment tools used to assess postoperative pain in adults.

INTRODUCTION

Pain is a common and poorly managed occurrence in patients during the postoperative period. Currently, postoperative pain is usually evaluated with assessment tools that measure one dimension of pain, namely pain intensity, resulting in inadequate management of postoperative pain. It is important to understand the complex nature of pain by considering all dimensions for optimal postoperative pain management. Systematic, robust evidence is lacking regarding the most psychometrically reliable and valid multidimensional pain assessment tool for adult postoperative patients.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This systematic review considered all study types for inclusion. Studies were considered if they assessed the measurement properties of a multidimensional pain assessment tool in adult postoperative patients within two weeks post-surgery. The outcomes included measurement of at least one of the psychometric properties, including reliability, validity, and responsiveness.

METHODS

A three-step search strategy was undertaken, including a search of the MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and CINAHL databases performed in October 2019. We also searched Dissertation Abstracts International, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, MedNar, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify unpublished studies. The title and abstracts of the studies were reviewed by two independent reviewers against the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the potential studies was assessed independently by three reviewers using the COSMIN checklist.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies involving five multidimensional postoperative pain assessment tools were included in the review: American Pain Society Pain Outcomes Questionnaire-Revised; Brief Pain Inventory; Houston Pain Outcome Instrument; McGill Pain Questionnaire; and the Quality Improvement in Postoperative Pain Management Postoperative Pain Questionnaire. The two most commonly used tools were the Brief Pain Inventory and the American Pain Society Pain Outcomes Questionnaire-Revised, which were assessed in six studies each. The included studies mainly reported internal consistency reliability, with four of the five identified tools demonstrating high Cronbach's alpha values ranging from 0.72 to 0.92. However, the Houston Pain Outcome Instrument demonstrated mixed findings, with eight of the nine subscales having moderate to high reliability while the expectations about pain subscale had poor reliability (α=0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides much needed information about the current tools used in many clinical, educational, and research settings. Of the five tools included in this review, the Brief Pain Inventory demonstrated strong evidence of psychometric validity and is recommended for use in assessing postoperative pain. Further psychometric validation of multidimensional postoperative pain assessment tools with emphasis on responsiveness and measurement error is required in order to accurately assess the minimal clinically important difference in postoperative pain outcomes.

Ventral incisional hernia case report: A therapeutic challenge

Incisional hernias are a very common condition and they still are considered to be a surgical challenge due to their recurrence rate. Smoking, obesity and age are risk factors for developing these abdominal wall defects. Despite recent advances in hernia repairs, the recurrence rates of hernias did not significantly diminished, even after the introduction of meshes. The aim of this article is to report a case of a ventral incisional hernia in a 37-year-old man and its successful treatment with a procedure known as the Alcino-Lázaro technique repair. This procedure has been shown to be very effective in incisional hernias, especially in obese patients. Furthermore, it is as cheap as it is reliable, since it can be performed without technological aid or expensive materials (mesh); thus, patients in low-income countries can greatly benefit from this procedure.

Long-term follow-up after surgical repair of abdominal rectus diastasis: A Prospective Randomized Study

BACKGROUND

Abdominal rectus diastasis can lead to functional disability. There is no consensus regarding treatment. This was a prospective study on patients randomized to surgery using either Quill self-retaining sutures or retromuscular mesh for abdominal rectus diastasis repair. The primary aim of the study was to compare long-term recurrence after surgery. Secondary aims were abdominal muscle strength, pain, and quality of life.

METHODS

A total of 57 patients were eligible and 52 were investigated. A routine 1-year follow-up ruled out any patient with recurrence and this was followed up by clinical examination for recurrence and assessment of the secondary outcomes a median of 5 years (3.8-6.5 years) after surgery. Quality of life was assessed using the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Pain related to activity was evaluated using the Ventral Hernia Pain Questionnaire.

RESULTS

No recurrence of abdominal rectus diastasis was found. Significant improvements were seen between index surgery and long-term follow-up in all domains of Short Form-36. There were no significant differences in quality of life or self-reported muscle strength between the two surgical groups. Long-term pain remained unchanged compared to that at the 1-year follow-up. "Pain this week" had decreased significantly at long-term follow-up compared to prior to surgery (mesh p = 0.009, Quill p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

No recurrence of abdominal rectus diastasis appeared. There was no difference in quality of life or long-term pain between the two surgical groups. Implantation of retromuscular mesh entails more extensive surgery implying potentially higher risk for complications. This leads us to recommend reconstruction with double-row self-retaining sutures for the repair of abdominal rectus diastasis in patients with functional disability.

Long-term follow-up after surgical repair of abdominal rectus diastasis: a prospective randomized study

Background:

Abdominal rectus diastasis can lead to functional disability. There is no consensus regarding treatment. This was a prospective study on patients randomized to surgery using either Quill self-retaining sutures or retromuscular mesh for abdominal rectus diastasis repair. The primary aim of the study was to compare long-term recurrence after surgery. Secondary aims were abdominal muscle strength, pain, and quality of life.

Methods:

A total of 57 patients were eligible and 52 were investigated. A routine 1-year follow-up ruled out any patient with recurrence and this was followed up by clinical examination for recurrence and assessment of the secondary outcomes a median of 5 years (3.8–6.5 years) after surgery. Quality of life was assessed using the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Pain related to activity was evaluated using the Ventral Hernia Pain Questionnaire.

Results:

No recurrence of abdominal rectus diastasis was found. Significant improvements were seen between index surgery and long-term follow-up in all domains of Short Form-36. There were no significant differences in quality of life or self-reported muscle strength between the two surgical groups. Long-term pain remained unchanged compared to that at the 1-year follow-up. “Pain this week” had decreased significantly at long-term follow-up compared to prior to surgery (mesh p = 0.009, Quill p = 0.003).

Conclusions:

No recurrence of abdominal rectus diastasis appeared. There was no difference in quality of life or long-term pain between the two surgical groups. Implantation of retromuscular mesh entails more extensive surgery implying potentially higher risk for complications. This leads us to recommend reconstruction with double-row self-retaining sutures for the repair of abdominal rectus diastasis in patients with functional disability.

Modified Peritoneal Flap Hernioplasty Versus Retromuscular Technique for Incisional Hernia Repair: a Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We present an open retromuscular mesh technique for incisional hernia repair, the modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty, where the fascia is sutured to the mesh and the hernia sac utilized for anterior mesh coverage. The aim was to describe the modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty technique and to compare it to a retromuscular repair, without component separation, regarding short-term complications, patient satisfaction, abdominal wall complaints, and recurrent incisional hernia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients operated electively with modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty technique (December 2012-December 2015) or retromuscular technique (Jan 2011-Oct 2014) were included in a retrospective single-center cohort study. Outcomes were evaluated from the Swedish Ventral Hernia Registry, by chart review, physical examination, and an abdominal wall complaints questionnaire.

RESULTS

The modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty group (n = 78) had larger hernias (mean width 10.4 vs 8.5 cm, p = 0.005), more advanced Centers for Disease Control classification (p = 0.009), and more simultaneous gastrointestinal-tract surgery (23.1% vs 11.5%, p = 0.041) than the retromuscular group (n = 96). No difference in short-term complications was seen. Incisional hernia recurrence was lower in the modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty group (1.4% vs 10.3%, p = 0.023), and patients were more satisfied (93.8% vs 81.7%, p = 0.032). Follow-up time was shorter in the modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty group (614 vs 1171 days, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study showed similar rates of short-term complications, despite more complex hernias in the modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty group. Furthermore, a lower incisional hernia recurrence rate for the modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty technique compared with the retromuscular technique used in our department was found. If this holds true with equally long follow-up remains to be proven.

Vacuum-Assisted Wound Closure and Permanent Onlay Mesh-Mediated Fascial Traction: A Novel Technique for the Prevention of Incisional Hernia after Open Abdomen Therapy Including Results From a Retrospective Case Series

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Incisional hernia development is a frequent long-term sequel after open abdomen treatment. This report describes a novel technique, the vacuum-assisted wound closure and permanent onlay mesh-mediated fascial traction for temporary and final closure of the open abdomen, with the intention to decrease incisional hernia rates. Primary aim was to evaluate incisional hernia development and secondary aims to describe short-term complications and patient-reported outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The basics of the technique is an onlay mesh, applied early during open abdomen treatment by suturing to the fascia in two rows with a 3- to 4-cm overlap from the midline incision, used for traction and kept for reinforced permanent closure. A retrospective case series, including chart review, evaluation of computed tomography/ultrasound images, and an out-patient clinical examination were performed. The patients were asked to answer a modified version of the ventral hernia pain questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 11 patients were treated with vacuum-assisted wound closure and permanent onlay mesh-mediated fascial traction with median follow-up of 467 days. Fascial closure rate was 100% and 30 day mortality 0%. Two of nine patients, eligible for incisional hernia follow-up, developed a hernia. Neither of the hernias were symptomatic nor clinically detectable. Six of 10 patients eligible for short-term follow-up had a prolonged wound-healing time exceeding 3 weeks. One of seven patients eligible for patient-reported outcome have had pain during the last week.

CONCLUSION

The vacuum-assisted wound closure and permanent onlay mesh-mediated fascial traction is a promising new technique for open abdomen treatment and reinforced fascial closure. The results of the first 11 patients treated with this technique show a low incisional hernia rate with manageable short-term wound complications and few patient-reported disadvantages.

The long-term outcomes of early abdominal wall reconstruction by bilateral anterior rectus abdominis sheath turnover flap method in critically ill patients requiring open abdomen

Background

In a previous study, we reported the usefulness of early abdominal wall reconstruction using bilateral anterior rectus abdominis sheath turnover flap method (turnover flap method) in open abdomen (OA) patients in whom early primary fascial closure was difficult to achieve. However, the long-term outcomes have not been elucidated. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the procedure, particularly in terms of ventral hernia, pain, and daily activities.

Methods

Between 2001 and 2013, 15 consecutive patients requiring OA after emergency laparotomy and in whom turnover flap method was applied were retrospectively identified. The long-term outcomes were evaluated based on medical records, physical examinations, CT imaging, and a ventral hernia pain questionnaire (VHPQ).

Results

The turnover flap method was applied in 2 trauma and 13 non-trauma patients.In most of cases, primary fascial closure could not be achieved due to massive visceral edema. The turnover flap method was performed for abdominal wall reconstruction at the end of OA. The median duration of OA was 6 (range 1-42) days. One of the 15 patients died of multiple organ failure during initial hospitalization after the performance of the turnover flap method. Fourteen patients survived, and although wound infection was observed in 3 patients, none showed enteric fistula, abdominal abscess, graft infection, or ventral hernia during hospitalization. However, it was found that 1 patient developed ventral hernia during follow-up at an outpatient visit. Nine of 14 patients were alive and able to be evaluated with a VHPQ (follow-up period: median 10 years; range 3-15 years). Seven out of nine patients were satisfied with this procedure, and none complained of pain or were limited in their daily activities.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this study, early abdominal reconstruction using the turnover flap method can be considered to be safe and effective as an alternative technique for OA patients in whom primary fascial closure is considered difficult to achieve.

The long-term outcomes of early abdominal wall reconstruction by bilateral anterior rectus abdominis sheath turnover flap method in critically ill patients requiring open abdomen

BACKGROUND

In a previous study, we reported the usefulness of early abdominal wall reconstruction using bilateral anterior rectus abdominis sheath turnover flap method (turnover flap method) in open abdomen (OA) patients in whom early primary fascial closure was difficult to achieve. However, the long-term outcomes have not been elucidated. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the procedure, particularly in terms of ventral hernia, pain, and daily activities.

METHODS

Between 2001 and 2013, 15 consecutive patients requiring OA after emergency laparotomy and in whom turnover flap method was applied were retrospectively identified. The long-term outcomes were evaluated based on medical records, physical examinations, CT imaging, and a ventral hernia pain questionnaire (VHPQ).

RESULTS

The turnover flap method was applied in 2 trauma and 13 non-trauma patients.In most of cases, primary fascial closure could not be achieved due to massive visceral edema. The turnover flap method was performed for abdominal wall reconstruction at the end of OA. The median duration of OA was 6 (range 1-42) days. One of the 15 patients died of multiple organ failure during initial hospitalization after the performance of the turnover flap method. Fourteen patients survived, and although wound infection was observed in 3 patients, none showed enteric fistula, abdominal abscess, graft infection, or ventral hernia during hospitalization. However, it was found that 1 patient developed ventral hernia during follow-up at an outpatient visit. Nine of 14 patients were alive and able to be evaluated with a VHPQ (follow-up period: median 10 years; range 3-15 years). Seven out of nine patients were satisfied with this procedure, and none complained of pain or were limited in their daily activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results of this study, early abdominal reconstruction using the turnover flap method can be considered to be safe and effective as an alternative technique for OA patients in whom primary fascial closure is considered difficult to achieve.

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Treatment of Mesh Infection After Abdominal Surgery: Long-Term Results and Patient-Reported Outcome

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Treatment of synthetic mesh infections has previously often resulted in mesh explantation. Negative pressure wound therapy has been used in these situations with encouraging results. The aims of this study were to evaluate wound healing, mesh preservation, and patient-reported outcome after negative pressure wound therapy of mesh infections.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Medical records of patients treated with negative pressure wound therapy for mesh infection and age-matched mesh-operated controls without postoperative complications were scrutinized in a retrospective study. An abdominal wall complaints questionnaire was used to evaluate patient-reported outcome.

RESULTS

Of 722 mesh operations performed 2005-2012, negative pressure wound therapy was used for treating postoperative mesh infections in 48 patients. A total of 48 age-matched controls were recruited from patients without wound complications. No differences were found between groups regarding preoperative characteristics. The following peroperative characteristics were significantly more frequent in the negative pressure wound therapy group: emergency operation, dirty/infected surgical field, surgical techniques other than laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair, implantation of more than one mesh, larger mesh size, longer duration of surgery, and mesh not completely covered with anterior rectus fascia. The entire mesh was salvaged in 92%, while four meshes were partly excised. Wounds healed in 88% after a median of 110 (range 3-649) days. In total, 85% in the negative pressure wound therapy group and 75% in the control group answered the questionnaire. There were no significant differences regarding pain, other abdominal wall symptoms, and satisfaction with the final result in favor of the controls.

CONCLUSION

No mesh had to be explanted and wound healing was achieved in the majority of patients when negative pressure wound therapy was used for treatment of mesh infections. However, time to healing was long, and numerous procedures were sometimes needed. Positive long-term outcome was more frequently reported among controls.

Giant ventral hernia-relationship between abdominal wall muscle strength and hernia area

Background

Symptoms arising from giant ventral hernia have been considered to be related to weakening of the abdominal muscles. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the area of the abdominal wall defect and abdominal wall muscle strength measured by the validated BioDex system together with a back/abdominal unit.

Methods

Fifty-two patients with giant ventral hernia (>10 cm wide) underwent CT scan, clinical measurement of hernia size and BioDex measurement of muscle strength prior to surgery. The areas of the hernia derived from CT scan and from clinical measurement were compared with BioDex forces in the modalities extension, flexion and isometric contraction. The Spearman rank test was used to calculate correlations between area, BMI, gender, age, and muscle strength.

Result

The hernia area calculated from clinical measurements correlated to abdominal muscle strength measured with the Biodex for all modalities (p-values 0.015–0.036), whereas no correlation was seen with the area calculated by CT scan. No relationship was seen between BMI, gender, age and the area of the hernia.

Discussion

The inverse correlation between BioDex abdominal muscle strength and clinically assessed hernia area, seen in all modalities, was so robust that it seems safe to conclude that the area of the hernia is an important determinant of the degree of loss of abdominal muscle strength. Results using hernia area calculated from the CT scan showed no such correlation and this would seem to concur with the results from a previous study by our group on patients with abdominal rectus diastasis. In that study, defect size assessed clinically, but not that measured by CT scan, was in agreement with the size of the diastasis measured intra-operatively.

The point at which the area of a hernia begins to correlate with loss of abdominal wall muscle strength remains unknown since this study only included giant ventral hernias.

Operative correction of abdominal rectus diastasis (ARD) reduces pain and improves abdominal wall muscle strength: A randomized, prospective trial comparing retromuscular mesh repair to double-row, self-retaining sutures

BACKGROUND

The primary aim of this prospective, randomized, clinical, 2-armed trial was to evaluate the risk for recurrence using 2 different operative techniques for repair of abdominal rectus diastasis. Secondary aims were comparison of pain, abdominal muscle strength, and quality of life and to compare those outcomes to a control group receiving physical training only.

METHODS

Eighty-six patients were enrolled. Twenty-nine patients were allocated to retromuscular polypropylene mesh and 27 to double-row plication with Quill technology. Thirty-two patients participated in a 3-month training program. Diastasis was evaluated with computed tomography scan and clinically. Pain was assessed using the ventral hernia pain questionnaire, a quality-of-life survey, SF-36, and abdominal muscle strength using the Biodex System-4.

RESULTS

One early recurrence occurred in the Quill group, 2 encapsulated seromas in the mesh group, and 3 in the suture group. Significant improvements in perceived pain, the ventral hernia pain questionnaire, and quality of life appeared at the 1-year follow-up with no difference between the 2 operative groups. Significant muscular improvement was obtained in all groups (Biodex System-4). Patient perceived gain in muscle strength assessed with a visual analog scale improved similarly in both operative groups. This improvement was significantly greater than that seen in the training group. Patients in the training group still experienced bodily pain at follow-up.

CONCLUSION

There was no difference between the Quill technique and retromuscular mesh in the effect on abdominal wall stability, with a similar complication rate 1 year after operation. An operation improves functional ability and quality of life. Training strengthens the abdominal muscles, but patients still experience discomfort and pain.

Quality of life and hernia development 5 years after open abdomen treatment with vacuum-assisted wound closure and mesh-mediated fascial traction

PURPOSE

To report incisional hernia (IH) incidence, abdominal wall (AW) discomfort and quality of life (QoL) 5 years after open abdomen treatment with vacuum-assisted wound closure and mesh-mediated fascial traction (VAWCM).

METHODS

Five-year follow-up of patients included in a prospective study 2006-2009. The protocol included physical examination, patient interview, chart review, questionnaires on abdominal wall and stoma complaints and the SF-36 questionnaire.

RESULTS

Fifty-five (12 women, 43 men; median age 70 years) of 111 included patients were alive. Follow-up rate was 91 %. Cumulative IH incidence during the whole study was 62 %. One-third of the IHs was repaired. At 5-year follow-up 59 % of IHs were clinically detectable. AW symptoms were equivalent in patients with (15/23) and without (11/21) IH (p = 0.541). SF-36 scores were lower than population mean for component scores and all subscales except bodily pain. Patients with major co-morbidity had lower physical component score [31.6 (95 %, CI 25.6-37.4)] compared to those without [48.9 (95 %, CI 46.2-51.4)]. Major co-morbidity was not associated with IH (p = 0.56), AW symptoms (p = 0.54) or stoma (p = 0.10). Patients with IH or other AW symptoms had similar SF-36 results compared to those without, whereas patients with a stoma had >5 point lower mean scores for general health, social function and physical component score compared to those without.

CONCLUSIONS

VAWCM treatment results in high incidence of IH. However, at five years, there was no detectable difference in abdominal wall complaints and QoL in patients with IH compared to those without. Lower QoL appeared mainly to be associated with the presence of major co-morbidity.

A prospective, multicenter, observational study on quality of life after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with ProGrip laparoscopic, self-fixating mesh according to the European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernias Quality of Life Instrument

BACKGROUND

There is an increasing interest in patient-reported outcome measurement to evaluate hernia operations. Several hernia-specific quality of life (QoL) scales have been proposed, but none are constructed for preoperative assessment.

METHODS

The European Registry for Abdominal Wall Hernias (EuraHS) proposed the short, 9-question EuraHS-QoL instrument for assessment pre- and postoperatively. The EuraHS-QoL was evaluated in a prospective, multicenter validation study alongside the Visual Analogue Scale, Verbal Rating Scale, and Carolina Comfort Scale (https://clinicaltrials.gov; NCT01936584).

RESULTS

We included 101 patients undergoing unilateral laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with ProGrip laparoscopic, self-fixating mesh. Clinical follow-up at 12 months was 87% complete. The EuraHS-QoL score shows good internal consistency (Cronbach's α ≥ .90), good test-retest reliability (Spearman correlation coefficient r ≥ 0.72), and high correlation for pain with the Visual Analogue Scale, the Verbal Rating Scale, the Carolina Comfort Scale pain scale (r between 0.64 and 0.86), and for restriction of activity with the Carolina Comfort Scale movement scale (r between 0.65 and 0.79). Our results show significant improvement in quality of life at 3 weeks compared with preoperative and further significant improvement at 12 months (P < .05). No late complications or recurrences were recorded. An operation was performed in day surgery (>75%) or with a <24-hour admission (>95%) in the majority of the patients.

CONCLUSION

The EuraHS-QoL instrument is a short and valid patient-reported outcome measurement following groin hernia repair. Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with ProGrip laparoscopic, self-fixating mesh results in a favorable outcome and significant improvement of quality of life compared with the preoperative assessment.

Quality of Life and Surgical Outcome 1 Year After Open and Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair: PROLOVE: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

Patients suffering from an incisional hernia after abdominal surgery have an impaired quality of life (QoL). Surgery aims to improve QoL with a minimum risk of further complications. The aim was to analyze QoL, predictors for outcome, including recurrence and reoperation rates during the first postoperative year.

METHODS

In a randomized controlled trial comparing laparoscopic and open mesh repair, 133 patients were assessed preoperatively and after 1 year with regard to QoL using the Short Form-36 (SF-36), visual analog scale (pain, movement limitation, and fatigue), and questions addressing abdominal wall complaints. Factors concerning recurrence, reoperations, satisfaction, and improved QoL were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 124 patients remained for analysis. All SF-36 scores except mental composite score increased, reaching and maintaining levels of the Swedish norm already after 8 weeks with no difference between groups. Event-free recovery was seen in 85% in the laparoscopic group and in 65% of the open cases (P < 0.010). Five recurrences occurred after laparoscopic surgery and 1 in the open group (P < 0.112). Overall, abdominal wall complaints decreased from 82% to 13% of the patients; and 92% were satisfied with the result after 1 year.In univariable logistic regression analyses laparoscopic surgery and male sex predicted an event-free recovery. Obesity (BMI > 30) predicted better outcome with regard to QoL. No predictors for recurrence or satisfaction were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with incisional hernia benefit substantially from surgery concerning QoL, independent of surgical technique. An event-free recovery occurred frequently after laparoscopic surgery. SF-36 seems well suited for assessing surgical outcome in patients after incisional hernia repair.

Predictive Factors in the Outcome of Surgical Repair of Abdominal Rectus Diastasis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to define the indicators predicting improved abdominal wall function after surgical repair of abdominal rectus diastasis (ARD). Preoperative subjective assessment quantified by the validated Ventral Hernia Pain Questionnaire (VHPQ) was related to relative postoperative functional improvement in abdominal muscle strength.

METHODS

Fifty-seven patients undergoing surgery for ARD completed the VHPQ before surgery. Preoperative pain assessment results were compared with the relative improvement in muscle strength measured with the BioDex system 4.

RESULTS

There was a correlation between the relative improvement in muscle strength measured by the BioDex System 4 for flexion at 30 degrees (P = 0.046) and 60 degrees per second (P = 0.004) and the preoperative question, "Do you find it painful to sit for more than 30 minutes?" There was also a correlation between BioDex improvement for flexion at 30 degrees (P = 0.022) and for isometric work load (P = 0.038) and the preoperative question, "Has abdominal pain limited your ability to perform sports activities?" The VHPQ responses also formed a pattern with a fairly good correlation between other BioDex modalities (with the exception of extension at 60 degrees per second) and the response to the question regarding complaints when performing sports. Postoperative visual analog scale ratings of abdominal wall stability correlated to the questions regarding complaints when sitting (P = 0.040) and standing (P = 0.047). No other correlation was seen.

CONCLUSION

VHPQ ratings concerning pain while being seated for more than 30 minutes and pain limiting the ability to perform sports are promising indicators in the identification of patients likely to benefit from surgical correction of their ARD.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Dutch Version of the Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS-NL)

Background

Valid and reliable questionnaires to assess hip and groin pain are lacking. The Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) is a valid and reliable self-reported measure to assess symptoms, activity limitations, participation restrictions and quality of life of persons with hip and/or groin complaints. The purpose of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the HAGOS into Dutch (HAGOS-NL), and to evaluate its internal consistency, validity and reliability.

Methods

Translation and cross-cultural adaption of the Dutch version of the HAGOS (HAGOS-NL) was performed according to international guidelines. The study population consisted of 178 adult patients who had undergone groin hernia repair surgery in the previous year. All respondents filled in the HAGOS-NL, the SF-36, and the SMFA-NL for determining construct validity of the HAGOS-NL. To determine reliability, 81 respondents filled in the HAGOS-NL after a time interval of two weeks.

Results

Factor analysis confirmed the original six-factor solution of the HAGOS. Internal consistency was good for all the subscales of the HAGOS-NL. High correlations were observed between the HAGOS-NL and the SF-36 and SMFA-NL, indicating good construct validity. The HAGOS-NL showed high reliability, except for the subscale Participation in Physical Activities which was moderate.

Conclusions

The HAGOS was successfully translated and cross-culturally adapted from English into Dutch (HAGOS-NL). This study shows that the HAGOS-NL is a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of functional status and health-related quality of life in patients with groin complaints.

Ventral hernia and patient experience of an elastic girdle

BACKGROUND

Abdominal girdles are used to prevent hernia and to facilitate the in-growth of mesh following ventral hernia surgery or instead of surgery. Scientific evidence supporting the use of girdle, including patient experience, is lacking. The aim was to investigate patient experience of wearing an elastic girdle in terms of support and tolerability.

METHODS

A trans-sectional study with quantitative onset was performed. Telephone interviews following a strict protocol were performed 2 years after girdle prescription. Of the 89 eligible patients, 67 completed the interview. The questionnaire constituted 13 questions.

RESULTS

Of the 52 women and 15 men, two thirds had ventral hernia surgery. Patients over 70 years more often used girdle as a substitute for surgery. Most patients (64%) were satisfied with the girdle and 94% used it as prescribed. Five out of 53 who used girdles preoperatively stated no improvement in their inconvenience. Almost all patients (97%) had some problem with the girdle.

CONCLUSION

In this first study on patient experience, nearly all patients used it as prescribed and subjective benefit was achieved even though side effects were present in most cases. Individual fitting and improved information about when and how to use the girdle is important for patient comfort and optimal function. This study attended patient experience of negative side effects from wearing a girdle. Improvement may be reached concerning comfort from the patients' perspective. The importance of both written and oral information has been revealed.

Wound dehiscence: outcome comparison for sutured and mesh reconstructed patients

PURPOSE

Treatment guidelines for abdominal wound dehiscence (WD) are lacking. The primary aim of the study was to compare suture to mesh repair in WD patients concerning incisional hernia incidence. Secondary aims were to compare recurrent WD, morbidity, mortality and long-term abdominal wall complaints.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 46 consecutive patients operated for WD between January 2010 and August 2012 was conducted. Physical examination and a questionnaire enquiry were performed in January 2013.

RESULTS

Six patients were treated by vacuum-assisted wound closure and mesh-mediated fascial traction (VAWCM) before definitive closure. Three patients died early resulting in 23 patients closed by suture and 20 by mesh repair. Five sutured, but no mesh repair patients had recurrent WD (p = 0.051) with a mortality of 60 %. Finally, 18 sutured and 21 mesh repair patients were eligible for follow-up. The incidence of incisional hernia was higher for the sutured patients (53 vs. 5 %, p = 0.002), while mesh repair patients had a higher short-term morbidity rate (76 vs. 28 %, p = 0.004). Abdominal wall complaints were rare in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Suture of WD was afflicted with a high incidence of recurrent WD and incisional hernia formation. Mesh repair overcomes these problems at the cost of more wound complications. VAWCM seems to be an alternative for treating contaminated patients until definitive closure is possible. Long-term abdominal wall complaints are uncommon after WD treatment.

Effect of an elastic girdle on lung function, intra-abdominal pressure, and pain after midline laparotomy: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Girdles and abdominal binders may reduce pain and stabilize the abdominal wall after laparotomy, but a risk for increased intra-abdominal pressure and decreased lung function is also hypothesized. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an abdominal girdle after midline laparotomy in a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Twenty-three patients undergoing laparotomy were randomized to wear an elastic girdle postoperatively and 25 were randomized to no girdle. Pulmonary function was evaluated with; forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume during one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and cough PEF. Pain was recorded using a visual analog scale (VAS). All patients completed the ventral hernia pain questionnaire (VHPQ) before surgery and at the end of the study. Intra-abdominal pressure was measured via an indwelling urinary catheter. Wound healing was assessed from photographs.

RESULTS

FVC, FEV1, PEF, and cough PEF were reduced by about 30 % after surgery, but there were no differences between patients with or without a girdle (ANOVA). Intra-abdominal pressure and wound healing were the same in both groups. Pain was significantly lower on day 5 in the girdle group (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

An individually fitted elastic girdle used after midline laparotomy was found to be safe, as this did not affect lung function, coughing, intra-abdominal pressure, or wound healing. The immediate decline in lung function after surgery is restrictive and due to anesthesia and the surgical procedure. Pain was significantly decreased in the girdle group. The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01517217.