Laparoscopic repair of primary and incisional ventral hernias: the differences must be acknowledged: a prospective cohort analysis of 1,088 consecutive patients

Primary and incisional hernias should be considered separately in clinical decisions and research: A nationwide register-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Ventral hernias of umbilical, epigastric, and incisional types pose varied surgical challenges. Recent debates and research suggest that treatment strategies and outcomes may vary significantly based on hernia type and width. This study investigated whether differences in the risk of surgical outcomes among primary and incisional hernias are solely due to the hernia type. The primary outcome was reoperation for recurrence, and the secondary outcome was 90-day postoperative readmission.

METHODS

This study was based on prospectively collected data from the Danish Ventral Hernia Database linked with the Danish Civil Registration system and the National Patient Register. Data spanned from 2007 to 2022 and included patients with umbilical, epigastric, or incisional hernias. The 3 hernia types were analyzed for the risk of reoperation for recurrence, adjusted for sex, age, emergency repair, width, use of mesh, and Charlson comorbidity index.

RESULTS

We included 57,312 hernias: 34,147 umbilical, 9,433 epigastric, and 13,722 incisional hernias. Compared with patients with umbilical hernias, patients with epigastric hernias had a lower risk of reoperation (hazard ratio: 0.88, 95% confidence interval: 0.79-0.99) and those with incisional hernias had an increased risk (hazard ratio: 2.93, 95% confidence interval: 2.57-3.33). Postoperative 90-day readmission rates were also higher for patients with incisional hernias than for patients with umbilical and epigastric hernias.

CONCLUSION

Incisional hernias exhibited a higher risk of reoperation for recurrence and 90-day postoperative readmission, underscoring their unique nature in terms of both origin and clinical behavior. The findings suggest that primary and incisional hernias should be separate entities in medical practice and research.

Hybrid intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair for incisional hernias: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic IPOM is technically challenging, especially regarding fascial closure. Hybrid repair has been proposed as a simpler approach. We aimed to compare hybrid and laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair (IPOM) in patients undergoing ventral hernia repair (VHR).

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of Cochrane, Scopus, and MEDLINE databases to identify studies comparing hybrid versus laparoscopic IPOM VHR reporting the outcomes of recurrence, mortality, seroma, postoperative complications, reoperation, surgical site infection, and operative time. Statistical analysis was performed using RStudio 4.1.2 using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

We screened 2,896 articles and fully reviewed 22 of them. A total of five studies, encompassing 664 patients were included. Among them, 337 (50.8%) underwent laparoscopic IPOM. All patients had incisional hernias, with a mean diameter varying from 3 to 12.7 cm, 60% were women, with a mean BMI varying from 29.5 to 38. The hybrid approach had a lower rate of seroma when compared to the laparoscopic (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.92; p = 0.038; I²=78%). We found no difference in recurrence, mortality, postoperative complications, reoperation, surgical site infection, and operative time between groups.

CONCLUSION

Hybrid IPOM is a safe and effective method for incisional hernia repair. Moreover, it facilitates fascial defect closure and decreases postoperative seromas.

Laparoscopic treatment of ventral hernias: the Italian national guidelines

Primary and incisional ventral hernias are significant public health issues for their prevalence, variability of professional practices, and high costs associated with the treatment In 2019, the Board of Directors of the Italian Society for Endoscopic Surgery (SICE) promoted the development of new guidelines on the laparoscopic treatment of ventral hernias, according to the new national regulation. In 2022, the guideline was accepted by the government agency, and it was published, in Italian, on the SNLG website. Here, we report the adopted methodology and the guideline's recommendations, as established in its diffusion policy. This guideline is produced according to the methodology indicated by the SNGL and applying the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology. Fifteen recommendations were produced as a result of 4 PICO questions. The level of recommendation was conditional for 12 of them and conditional to moderate for one. This guideline's strengths include relying on an extensive systematic review of the literature and applying a rigorous GRADE method. It also has several limitations. The literature on the topic is continuously and rapidly evolving; our results are based on findings that need constant re-appraisal. It is focused only on minimally invasive techniques and cannot consider broader issues (e.g., diagnostics, indication for surgery, pre-habilitation).

Gender differences in epigastric hernia repair: a propensity score matching analysis of 15,925 patients from the Herniamed registry

INTRODUCTION

In recent surgical literature, gender-specific differences in the outcome of hernia surgery has been analyzed. We already know that female patients are at higher risk to develop chronic postoperative pain after inguinal, incisional, and umbilical hernia surgery. In this study, we evaluated the impact of gender on the outcome after epigastric hernia surgery.

METHODS

A covariable-adjusted matched-paired analysis with data derived from the Herniamed registry was performed. In total of 15,925 patients with 1-year follow-up data were included in the study. Propensity score matching was performed for the 7786 female (48.9%) and 8139 male (51.1%) patients, creating 6350 pairs (81.6%).

RESULTS

Matched-paired analysis revealed a significant disadvantage for female patients for pain on exertion (12.1% vs. 7.6%; p < 0.001) compared to male patients. The same effect was demonstrated for pain at rest (6.2% in female patients vs. 4.1% in male patients; p < 0.001) and pain requiring treatment (4.6% in female patients vs. 3.1% in male patients; p < 0.001). All other outcome parameters showed no significant differences between female and male patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Female patients are at a higher risk for chronic pain after elective epigastric hernia repairs compared to the male patient population. These results complete findings of previous studies showing the same effect in inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernia repair.

Comparison of outcomes of the extended-view totally extraperitoneal rives-stoppa (eTEP-RS) and the intraperitoneal onlay mesh with defect closure (IPOM-plus) for W1-W2 midline incisional hernia repair-a single-center experience

BACKGROUND

The eTEP technique is a new approach that has recently gained popularity in abdominal wall hernia surgery. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of the eTEP-RS and IPOM-plus procedures in W1 and W2 midline incisional abdominal wall hernia (IAWH) repairs performed by the same surgeon.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data of laparoscopic abdominal wall repairs performed on 61 patients with eTEP between November 2018 and April 2022 and on 67 patients with IPOM-plus between January 2016 and April 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 74 out of 128 patients, 30 in the eTEP-RS group and 44 in the IPOM-plus group, who underwent W1-W2 midline incisional hernia repair were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 24 months in the eTEP-RS group and 45 months in the IPOM-plus group.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding age, sex, BMI, ASA score, or active smoking. No difference was seen between the two groups in terms of the mean defect area (MDA, 28.17 cm² vs. 27.41 cm², p = 0.84), but the mean mesh area (MMA) and mesh/defect (M/D) ratio were higher in the eTEP-RS group (404.11 cm² vs. 267.85 cm², p < 0.001 and 20.96 vs. 12.36, p = 0.004). In the eTEP-RS group, the hospital length of stay (LOS) (1.48 days vs. 2.58 days, p < 0.001) and pain on the first and 10th postoperative days were significantly lower (p < 0.001), while the operative time was significantly longer (204.07 min vs. 88.33 min, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in terms of intraoperative complications (p = 0.56), seroma formation (p = 0.83), or recurrence (p = 0.83).

CONCLUSION

The eTEP-RS technique has advantages over the IPOM-plus approach, such as a shorter LOS and less early postoperative pain with W1-W2 midline IAWH repair. However, the eTEP technique has a longer operative time.

Hernia recurrence after primary repair of small umbilical hernia defects

BACKGROUND

An evidence-based approach to the repair of umbilical hernias (UH)<1 cm has yet to be defined.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained, institutional hernia database was queried for patients undergoing primary suture repair of UH ≤ 1 cm. The primary outcome was recurrence and secondary outcomes were wound complications.

RESULTS

Of 332 patients included (226-primary, 106-incisional), recurrence was identified in 4 (1.8%) primary versus 8 (7.5%) incisional-UH (p = 0.022), with follow-up of 4.7 ± 4.4 years. There were 10 (3.0%) wound complications: 4 (1.2%) superficial wound infections, 1 (0.3%) superficial wound dehiscence, and 5 (1.5%) seromas. On multivariable analysis of recurrence, incisional-UH had an odds ratio of 4.2 compared to primary. Suture choice, diabetes, BMI, tobacco-use history, and wound complications were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

With long term follow-up, recurrence after primary suture repair of UH ≤ 1 cm occurred in 1.8% of primary and 7.5% of incisional UH. On multivariable analysis, incisional-UH increased recurrence odds by 4.2 times compared to primary.

The extended-view totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) approach for incisional abdominal wall hernias: results from a single center

BACKGROUND

The extended-view totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) approach is a promising technique for abdominal wall hernias and has increased in popularity among hernia surgeons in recent years. This study aims to present the results of applying the laparoscopic eTEP approach for incisional abdominal wall hernias (IAWHs).

METHODS

This study is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected dataset of 30 patients who underwent laparoscopic eTEP for IAWHs between October 2018 and March 2021 (median follow-up of 15 months).

RESULTS

Thirty patients (8 male, 22 female) with a mean age, mean body mass index, and median ASA score of 53.5, 30.8, and 2, respectively, underwent the eTEP procedure for incisional abdominal wall hernias. In total, 11 (36.7%) patients had a recurrent IAWH. Seventeen (56.7%) patients were treated with eTEP RivesStoppa (eTEP-RS), whereas 10 (33.3%) patients needed the eTEP transversus abdominis release (eTEP-TAR) procedure. In three patients, conversions to other procedures (laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh-plus (IPOM-Plus) and open RivesStoppa) were needed due to intraoperative complications: iatrogenic perforation to the intestine and large peritoneal tear causing loss of the working space. The mean operative time and mean length of stay (LOS) were 203.5 min and 1.5 days for eTEP-RS and 291.5 min and 1.6 days for eTEP-TAR, respectively. Two patients developed asymptomatic seromas, and one patient developed an asymptomatic hematoma; all were treated conservatively. Only one recurrence was observed over the course of the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The eTEP approach is a safe and feasible option for IAWH repair and a valuable addition to the armamentarium of hernia surgeons.

Comparative review of outcomes: single-incision laparoscopic total extra-peritoneal sub-lay (SIL-TES) mesh repair versus laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) repair for ventral hernia

To compare outcomes between single-incision laparoscopic totally extra-peritoneal sub-lay (SIL-TES) mesh repair and laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) repair of ventral hernia (VH). A retrospective selection of 104 patients who underwent VH repair (50 and 54 in the SIL-TES and IPOM groups, respectively) was made. Patient data were collected, and quality of life was evaluated using Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS) 1 month and 3 months after surgery. There were no significant differences in sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, defect size, mesh area, estimated blood loss, and complication rate between the groups. Age was lower, body mass index was higher, prevalence of primary VH was significantly higher (p < 0.0001), and pain was less at 24 and 48 h post procedure (p < 0.0001) in the SIL-TES group. Drainage placement was more (p < 0.0001), operation time was shorter (p = 0.012), and hospitalization duration and total hospitalization cost were greater in the IPOM group than that in SIL-TES group (8.3 ± 0.3 vs 4.3 ± 0.4 days, p < 0.0001; $7126.9 ± 141.4 vs $2937.3 ± 58.3, p < 0.0001, respectively). Pain and movement limitation scores evaluated by CCS were significantly worse at 1 month (4.93 ± 0.28 vs 1.75 ± 0.28: p < 0.0001; 2.52 ± 0.24 vs 1.15 ± 0.18: p < 0.0001, respectively) and 3 months (4.32 ± 0.37 vs 0.9 ± 0.29: p < 0.0001; 2.06 ± 0.25 vs 0.69 ± 0.11: p < 0.0001, respectively) in IPOM group, compared with the according scores in SIL-TES group. There was no readmission within 30 days and no hernia recurrence at mean follow-up of 12 months. SIL-TES mesh repair is safe and effective and is superior to IPOM repair.

Robotic transabdominal retromuscular rectus diastasis (r-TARRD) repair: a new approach

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to present our innovative robotic approach for the treatment of rectus diastasis with concurrent primary or incisional ventral hernias.

METHODS

We performed 45 r-TARRD repairs for symptomatic rectus diastasis with concomitant associated ventral/incisional umbilical and/or epigastric hernias between January 2019 and January 2020. Data on patient demographics, type of hernia, operative time, complications, recurrence rate, and hospital stay were retrospectively analyzed. Follow-up was scheduled at 1, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

45 patients (13 M, 32 F) underwent r-TARRD repair. Mean age was 54.8 years (range 31-68) and mean BMI was 26.74 kg/m² (range 21.1-31). Mean ASA was 2.2 (range 1-3). In all patients we used a polypropylene mesh 25 × 15 cm, properly shaped. Mean operative time was 192 min (range 115-260). Mean hospital stay 4.2 days (range 2-7). No conversion to laparoscopy or open surgery and no major complications occurred. At 1-month follow-up one mesh infection (2.22%) was observed and it was treated conservatively. Four recurrences (8.88%) were reported at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted TARRD repair is conceived as a novel alternative minimally invasive procedure for RD with concurrent midline defects ensuring a primary fascial defect closure and mesh implantation in a sublay position with a wide overlap. It is important to better evaluate the suture that should be used to perform the repair, and multicenter studies with standardization of patient's demographics, RD characteristics, and long-term follow-up outcomes are mandatory to assess the effectiveness and durability of r-TARDD repair.

Robotic Ventral Hernia Repair: Lessons Learned From a 7-year Experience

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcomes of RVHR with varying prosthetic reinforcement techniques.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

As a recent addition to minimally invasive hernia repair, more data is needed to establish the long-term benefits of RVHR and to identify potential predictors of adverse outcomes.

METHODS

Patients who underwent RVHR over a 7-year period were evaluated. Robotic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (rIPOM), transabdominal preperitoneal (rTAPP), Rives-Stoppa (rRS), and transversus abdominis release (rTAR) techniques were compared. The main outcomes were 90-day FFC, and 5-year FFR, depicted through Kaplan-Meier curves stratified by repair type and date.

RESULTS

A total of 644 RVHRs were analyzed; 197 rIPOM, 156 rTAPP, 153 rRS, and 138 rTAR. There was a gradual transition from intraperitoneal to extraperitoneal mesh placement across the study period. Although rTAPP had the highest 90-day FFC (89.5%) it also had the lowest 5-year FFR (93.3%). Conversely, although rTAR demonstrated the lowest FFC (71%), it had the highest FFR (100%). Coronary artery disease, lysis of adhesions, incisional hernia, and skin-to-skin time (10 minutes. increment) were significant predictors of 90-day complications. Incisional hernia was the sole predictor of 5-year recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides an in-depth perspective of the largest series of RVHR. Based on this experience, rTAPP is no longer recommended due to its limited applicability and high recurrence rate. Both rIPOM and rRS offer encouraging short- and long-term outcomes, while rTAR is associated with the highest perioperative morbidity. Longer follow-up is needed to assess rTAR durability, despite a promising recurrence profile.

Analysis of Factors Relevant to Revenue Improvement in Ventral Hernia Repair, Their Influence on Surgical Training, and Development of Predictive Models: An Economic Evaluation

Background: Ventral hernia repairs (VHR) are frequent but loss- making. This study aims to identify epidemiological and procedure related factors in VHR and their influence on surgical training. Methods: Data from 86 consecutive patients who underwent VHR in 2019 was collected. Moreover, 66 primary ventral hernias and 20 incisional hernias were repaired in open procedures. Linear regression models were made. Results: Primary VHR procedures showed a mean deficit of −378.17 CHF per case. Incisional hernia repair procedures resulted in a deficit of −1442.50 CHF per case. The two hernia groups were heterogeneous. For the primary VHR procedures, the surgery time (β = 0.564, p < 0.001) had the greatest influence, followed by the costs of the mesh (β = −0.215, p < 0.001). The epidemiological factors gender (β = 0.143, p < 0.01) and body mass index (BMI) (β = −0.087, p = 0.074) were also influential. For incisional hernia procedures a surgeon’s experience had the most significant influence (β = 0.942, p < 0.001), and the second largest influence was the price of the mesh (β = −0.500, p < 0.001). The epidemiological factor BMI (β = −0.590, p < 0.001), gender (β = −0.113, p = 0.055) and age (β = −0.026, p < 0.050) also had a significant influence. Conclusion: Our analysis shows a way of improving financial results in the field of ventral hernia repair. Costs can be visualized and reduced to optimize revenue enhancement in surgical departments. In our analysis primary ventral hernias are an appropriate training operation, in which the experience of the surgeon has no significant impact on costs. In primary VHR procedures, revenue enhancement is limited when using an expensive mesh. However, the treatment of incisional hernias is recommended by specialists. The financial burden is significantly higher with less experience. Therefore, these operations are not suitable for surgical training. The re-operation rate decreases with increasing experience of the surgeon. This directly affects the Patient Related Outcome (PROM) and quality of treatment. Therefore, high-quality training must be enforced. Since financial pressure on hospitals is increasing further, it is crucial to investigate cost influencing factors. The majority of Swiss public hospitals will no longer be able to operate ventral hernias profitably without new concepts. In addition to purchasing management, new construction projects, and mergers, improving the results of individual departments is a key factor in maintaining the profitability of hospitals in the future regarding hernia repair without losing the scope of teaching procedures.

Are the relative benefits of open versus laparoscopic intraperitoneal mesh repair of umbilical hernias dependent on the diameter of the defect?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess whether the respective values of open and laparoscopic intraperitoneal repairs of umbilical hernias are related to the European Hernia Society diameter of defects.

METHODS

This registry-based study compared the early and 2-year outcomes of 776 open versus 1,019 consecutive laparoscopic intraperitoneal repairs performed from 2011 to 2019.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal mesh repair, either laparoscopic or open, was found to be a safe procedure at the 2-year follow-up. The incidence of reoperated bowel obstructions was 0.3%. Compared with the open group: (1) postoperative surgical site occurrences in small (<2 cm) or medium (2-4 cm) hernias (0.3% vs 2.4%; P = .041; 1.4% vs 5.9%; P = .0002); (2) recurrence rates in large (≥4 cm) umbilical hernias (0.0% vs 8.6%; P = .0195); and (3) cumulative reoperation rates (0.9% vs 2.2%; P = .021) were significantly better in the laparoscopic group. Conversely, the rate of early pain on day 1 and 1 month postsurgery was higher in the laparoscopic group, for all hernia sizes (P < .001). The rate of moderate or severe chronic pain at 2 years was significantly higher in the laparoscopic group (8.1% vs 2.4%; P = .049) for small hernias.

CONCLUSION

The respective benefit to drawback ratios for open versus laparoscopic intraperitoneal repairs were related to the European Hernia Society diameter of hernia defect. In medium-large hernias, the benefits of laparoscopic repair overrode its drawbacks. In small hernias, the low recurrence rate, reduced early and chronic pain, and better rate of ambulatory surgery suggest there is still a place for open repair.

Laparoscopic Treatment of Incisional and Ventral Hernia

Background and Objectives

Although several large studies regarding patients undergoing minimally invasive repair of incisional hernia are currently available, the results are not particularly reliable as they are based on heterogeneous groups, different surgical techniques, different mesh types, or with a too short follow period.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational trial, collecting data from patients who underwent laparoscopic repair of a primary abdominal wall or an incisional hernia using the laparoscopic Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh technique and a single mesh type, i.e., a composite polyester mesh with a hydrophilic film (Parietex Composite^TM mesh - Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN - USA). All patients signed an informed consent.

Results

One thousand seven hundred seventy-seven patients were enrolled. The median surgery time was 50 minutes and the median length of hospital stay was 2 days. Intraoperative complications occurred in 12 patients (0.7%), while early postoperative surgical complications occurred in 115 (6.5%); during follow-up, bulging mesh was diagnosed in 4.5% of cases and hernia recurred in 4.3% of patients. An overlap equal or greater than 4 cm resulted as a significant protective factor, while the use of absorbable fixing devices was a risk factor for recurrence (odds ration: 9.06, p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval: 4.19 - 19.57).

Conclusions

Minimally invasive treatment of primary and postincisional abdominal wall hernias is a safe, effective, and reproducible procedure. An overlap equal or greater than 4 cm, the use of nonabsorbable fixing devices and a postoperative care and follow-up regime are crucial in order to obtain good results and low recurrence rates.

Potential influencing factors on the outcome in incisional hernia repair: a registry-based multivariable analysis of 22,895 patients

INTRODUCTION

Due to the paucity of randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses of incisional hernia repair can hardly give any insights into the influence factors on the various outcome criteria. Therefore, a multivariable analysis of data from the Herniamed Registry was undertaken with the aim to define potential influencing factors for the outcome.

METHODS

Multivariable analysis of the data available for 22,895 patients with primary elective incisional hernia repair was performed to assess the confirmatory predefined potential influence factors and their association with the perioperative and 1-year follow-up outcomes. A model validation procedure was implemented using a bootstrap algorithm in order to account for the robustness of results.

RESULTS

Higher European Hernia Society (EHS) width classification, open procedure, female gender, and preoperative pain have a highly significant association with an unfavorable outcome in incisional hernia repair. Larger defect width and open operation have a highly significantly unfavorable relation to the postoperative surgical complications, general complications, and the complication-related reoperations, while female gender and preoperative pain have a highly significantly unfavorable association with the rates of pain at rest, pain on exertion, and chronic pain requiring treatment at 1-year follow-up. The recurrence rate is significantly unfavorably influenced by higher EHS width classification, higher BMI, and lateral EHS classification.

CONCLUSION

Higher EHS width classification, open procedure, female gender, higher BMI, and lateral EHS classification, as well as preoperative pain are the most important unfavorable influencing factors associated with a worse outcome in incisional hernia repair.

Hernia width explains differences in outcomes between primary and incisional hernias: a prospective cohort study of 9159 patients

PURPOSE

Data on primary (PH) and incisional hernias (IH) are often pooled, even though several studies have illustrated that these are different entities with worse outcomes for IHs. The aim of this study is to validate previous research comparing PHs and IHs and to examine whether hernia width is an important contributor to the differences between these hernia types.

METHODS

A registry-based, prospective cohort study was performed, utilizing the French Hernia Club database. All patients undergoing PH or IH repair between September 8th 2011 and May 22nd 2019 were included. Baseline, hernia and surgical characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Outcomes were analyzed per width category (≤ 2 cm, 3-4 cm, 5-10 cm and > 10 cm).

RESULTS

A total of 9159 patients were included, of whom 4965 (54%) had PH and 4194 (46%) had IH. PHs and IHs differed significantly in 12/15 baseline characteristics, 9/10 hernia and surgical characteristics, and all outcomes. Overall, complications and re-interventions were more common in patients with IH. After correcting for width, the differences between PH and IH were no longer significant, except for medical complications, which were more common after IH repair compared to PH.

CONCLUSION

After correcting for hernia width, most outcomes do not significantly differ between PH and IH, indicating that not hernia type, but hernia width is an important factor contributing to the differences between PH and IH.

What are the trends in incisional hernia repair? Real-world data over 10 years from the Herniamed registry

INTRODUCTION

There is an increasingly controversial debate about the best possible incisional hernia repair technique. Despite the good outcomes of laparoscopic IPOM, concerns about the intraperitoneal mesh placement and its potential intraabdominal complications have risen. Against that background, this paper now analyzes changes and trends in incisional hernia repair techniques in the recent decade.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2019 a total of 61,627 patients with primary elective incisional hernia repair were enrolled in the Herniamed Registry. The outcome results were assigned to the year of repair and summarized as curves to visualize trends. The explorative Fisher's exact test was used for statistical calculation of significant differences. Since the number of cases entered into the Herniamed Registry for the years 2010-2012 was still relatively small, the years 2013 and 2019 were compared for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In the analyzed time period, the proportion of incisional hernias repaired in open suture technique remained unchanged at about 10%. The proportion of laparoscopic IPOM repairs decreased significantly from 33.8% in 2013 to 21.0% (p < 0.001) in 2019. Conversely, the proportion of open sublay repairs increased significantly from 32.1% in 2013 to 41.4% (p < 0.001) in 2019. Starting in 2015, there has also been the introduction and increasing use (4.5% in 2013 vs. 10.0% in 2019; p < 0.001) of new minimally-invasive techniques with placement of a mesh into the sublay/retromuscular/preperitoneal abdominal wall layer (E/MILOS, eTEP, preperitoneal mesh technique).

CONCLUSION

Analysis of data from the Herniamed Registry shows a significant trend to the disadvantage of the laparoscopic IPOM and to the advantage of the open sublay operation and the new minimally-invasive techniques (E/MILOS, eTEP, preperitoneal mesh technique). Despite all the recommendations in the guidelines, 10% of incisional hernias continue to be treated by means of a suture technique.

Laparoscopic Abdominal Wall Hernia Repair

Background and Objectives

The aim of this retrospective monocentric study was to evaluate results and recurrence rate with long-term follow-up after laparoscopic incisional/ventral hernia repair.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single-center, observational trial, collecting data from patients who underwent laparoscopic incisional/ventral abdominal hernia repair using the open intraperitoneal onlay mesh technique and a single mesh type. All patients signed an informed consent form before surgery.

Results

A total of 1,029 patients were included. The median surgery time was 40 min (range 30-55) and the median length of hospital stay was 2 d (range 2-3). Intraoperative complications occurred in two of 1,029 patients (0.19%), whereas early postoperative surgical complications (within 30 d) occurred in 50 patients (4.86%). Postoperative complications according to Clavien-Dindo classification were as follows: I, 3.30% (34 of 1,029); II, 0.97% (10 of 1,029); IIIB, 0.58% (six of 1,029); IV, 0.00% (none of 1,029); and V, 0.00% (none of 1,029). During follow-up, bulging mesh was diagnosed in 58 of 1,029 patients (5.6%), and hernia recurred in 40 of 1,029 patients (3.9%). A mesh overlap equal to or greater than 4 cm appeared to be a significant protective factor for hernia recurrence (P < .001); a mesh overlap equal or greater than 5 cm appeared to be a significant protective factor for bulging (P < .001), whereas the use of resorbable fixing devices was a significant risk factor for hernia recurrence (odds ratio, 111.53, P < .001, 95% confidence interval, 21.53-577.67).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that laparoscopic repair of ventral/incisional abdominal wall hernias is a safe, effective, and reproducible procedure. Identified risk factors for recurrence are an overlap of less than 4 cm and the use of resorbable fixation means.

Robotic intraperitoneal onlay versus totally extraperitoneal (TEP) retromuscular mesh ventral hernia repair: A propensity score matching analysis of short-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

Short-term outcomes of robotic intraperitoneal onlay mesh(rIPOM) versus robotic totally extraperitoneal retromuscular mesh(rTEP-RM) ventral hernia repair were compared.

METHODS

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data of patients was conducted. A one-to-one propensity score matching(PSM) analysis was performed to achieve two well-balanced groups in terms of preoperative variables. A univariate and multivariate analysis were conducted to determine factors influencing post-operative outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 291 rIPOM and rTEP-RM procedures, 68 patients were assigned to each group after PSM. Operative times were longer for the rTEP-RM group. Adhesiolysis was more frequently required in rIPOM. The rTEP-RM allowed for a greater mesh-to-defect ratio. The rate of overall perioperative complications, Clavien-Dindo grades, and surgical site events were higher for the rIPOM group than the rTEP-RM group. The Comprehensive Complication Index® morbidity scores were lower in favor of rTEP-RM group. Adhesiolysis, rIPOM, and craniocaudal defect size were predictors for post-operative complications.

CONCLUSION

Robotic TEP-RM repair has better early postoperative outcomes for ventral hernias, suggesting that it may be preferable over robotic IPOM repair. Further studies with longer follow-up are needed.

Laparoscopic IPOM versus open sublay technique for elective incisional hernia repair: a registry-based, propensity score-matched comparison of 9907 patients

BACKGROUND

For comparison of laparoscopic IPOM versus sublay technique for elective incisional hernia repair, the number of cases included in randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses is limited. Therefore, an urgent need for more comparative data persists.

METHODS

In total, 9907 patients with an elective incisional hernia repair and 1-year follow-up were selected from the Herniamed Hernia Registry between September 1, 2009 and June 1, 2016. Using propensity score matching, 3965 (96.5%) matched pairs from 4110 laparoscopic IPOM and 5797 sublay operations were formed for comparison of the techniques.

RESULTS

Comparison of laparoscopic IPOM versus open sublay revealed disadvantages for the sublay operation regarding postoperative surgical complications (3.4% vs. 10.5%; p < 0.001), complication-related reoperations (1.5% vs. 4.7%; p < 0.001), and postoperative general complications (2.5% vs. 3.7%; p = 0.004). The majority of surgical postoperative complications were surgical site infection, seroma, and bleeding. Laparoscopic IPOM had disadvantages in terms of intraoperative complications (2.3% vs. 1.3%; p < 0.001), mainly bleeding, bowel, and other organ injuries. No significant differences in the recurrence and pain rates at 1-year follow-up were observed.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic IPOM was found to have advantages over the open sublay technique regarding the rates of both surgical and general postoperative complications as well as complication-related reoperations, but disadvantages regarding the rate of intraoperative complications.

Pooled data analysis of primary ventral (PVH) and incisional hernia (IH) repair is no more acceptable: results of a systematic review and metanalysis of current literature

PURPOSE

Primary (PVHs) and incisional (IHs) ventral hernias represent a common indication for surgery. Nevertheless, most of the papers presented in literature analyze both types of defect together, thus potentially introducing a bias in the results of interpretation. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to highlight the differences between these two entities.

METHODS

Methods MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were reviewed to identify studies evaluating the outcomes of both open and laparoscopic repair with mesh of PVHs vs IHs. Search was restricted to English language literature. Risk of bias was assessed with MINORS score. Primary outcome was recurrence, and secondary outcomes were baseline characteristics and intraoperative and postoperative data. Fixed effects model was used unless significant heterogeneity, assessed with the Higgins I square (I²), was encountered.

RESULTS

The search resulted in 783 hits, after screening; 11 retrospective trials were selected including 38,727 patients. Mean MINORS of included trials was 15.2 (range 5-21). The estimated pooled proportion difference for recurrence was - 0.09 (- 0.11; - 0.07) between the two groups in favor of the PVH group. On metanalysis, PVHs were smaller in area and diameters, affected younger and less comorbid patients, and were more frequently singular; the operative time and length of stay was quicker. Other complications did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSION

Our paper supports the hypothesis that PVH and IH are different conditions with the latter being more challenging to treat. Accordingly, EHS classifications should be adopted systematically as well as pooling data analysis should be no longer performed in clinical trials.

Recurrent Incisional Hernia Repair-An Overview

Introduction: Recurrent incisional hernias with a rate of around 20% account for a relatively large proportion of all incisional hernias. It is difficult to issue any binding recommendations on optimum treatment in view of the relatively few studies available on this topic. This review now aims to collate the data available on recurrent incisional hernia. Material and Methods: A systematic search of the available literature was performed in January 2019 using Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Springer Link, and the Cochrane Library, as well as a search of relevant journals and reference lists. For the present analysis, 47 publications were identified as relevant. Results: There are mainly case series available on the treatment of recurrent incisional hernia. Eight evaluable case series and two prospective comparative studies report on treatment of between 27 and 85 recurrent hernias. After primary open repair of incisional hernia and defect sizes of < 8-10 cm, the recurrence operation can be performed in laparoscopic technique provided the surgeon has sufficient experience in that procedure. That also applies to multiple recurrences after exclusively open repair. There are no evaluable data on a repeat laparoscopic approach after minimally invasive repair of primary incisional hernia. Such an approach should only be chosen by very experienced laparoscopic surgeons and based on a well-founded indication. Further data are urgently needed on treatment of recurrent incisional hernia. Conclusion: Very little data are available on the treatment of recurrent incisional hernia. Based on the tailored approach concept, a laparoscopic approach undertaken by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon can be recommended for recurrent hernias after primary open repair and for defects of up to 8-10 cm.

Laparoscopic management of recurrent ventral hernia: an experience of 222 patients

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the predisposing factors and characteristics of recurrent ventral hernia (RVH) along with the feasibility and outcome of laparoscopy in managing RVH.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective analysis of all patients with reducible or irreducible, uncomplicated RVH who underwent surgical management from January 2012 to June 2018.

RESULTS

Out of 222 patients, 186 (83.8%) were female, and 36 (16.2%) were male. The mean age was 54.1 ± 10.1 years; an average body mass index was 31 kg/m² (19-47.9). The most common previous abdominal operations among female patients were cesarean sections (43.5%) and abdominal hysterectomy (36.6%). Most of the patients had a history of open mesh repair (43.7%) and open anatomical repair (36.9%). The median time of recurrence was 4 years (1-33 years). The median defect size was 10 cm² (range 2-150 cm²), and 73% defects were in the midline. Total 181 of 222 (81.6%) patients underwent laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh plus (L-IPOM+), 19 (8.5%) laparoscopic-assisted IPOM+, 17(7.7%) laparoscopic anatomical repair, while remaining 5 (2.3%) patients required open mesh reconstruction. The median size of the composite mesh used was 300 cm² (150-600 cm²). The mean operating time was 145 (30-330) min, and median blood loss was 15 (5-110) ml. The median hospital stay was 3 days, and median follow-up period was 37 months. The post-operative symptomatic seroma rate was 3.1%, and re-recurrence rate was 1.4%.

CONCLUSION

Obesity, old age, female sex, previous lower abdominal surgeries, and previous open repair of a hernia are factors associated with recurrence. Laparoscopic repair is feasible with excellent outcome in most of the patients.

The Impact of Surgical Approach on Late Recurrence in Incisional Hernia Repair

Background and Objectives:

We conducted a retrospective, observational study to compare real-world recurrence rates for different surgical approaches after incisional hernia mesh repair.

Methods:

Two large US insurance claims databases, Truven Commercial Claims (CCAE) and Medicare Supplemental (MDCR), were evaluated for the period from 2009 to 2015. The first incisional hernia repair with mesh for patients 21 years or older was identified (INDEX). One-year continuous enrollment before INDEX was required. Mesh and approach (OPEN, laparoscopic [LAP], and conversion [CONV]) were identified with the use of CPT-4/ICD-9 codes. Recurrence was defined as a second incisional hernia repair 31 days or longer after INDEX. Kaplan-Meier (KM) estimates and Cox models were used to analyze the effect of approach on recurrence.

Results:

A total of 68,560 patients were identified for CCAE (78.7%) and MDCR (21.3%) with a mean (SD) age of 55.3 (12.8) years. The majority of procedures were OPEN (80.1%) followed by LAP (16.3%) and CONV (3.6%). OPEN had fewer female patients 53.7% compared with LAP (62.1%) and CONV (62.2%). CONV represented more inpatient (51.9%) procedures compared with LAP (41.0%) and OPEN (27.3%). Starting at 2 years post-INDEX, LAP (5.1%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.5%–5.6%) had lower KM estimates compared with OPEN (5.9%, 95% CI 5.7%–6.2%]); after 3 years, LAP (6.8%, 95% CI 6.2%–7.5%]) had lower estimates than both OPEN (7.9%, 95% CI 7.6%–8.3%) and CONV (9.3%, 95% CI 7.6%–11.0%). After controlling for confounders, the risk was lower for LAP compared with OPEN (hazard ratio 0.839, 95% CI 0.752–0.936) and CONV (hazard ratio 0.808, 95% CI 0.746–0.875), while OPEN and CONV were not significantly different from each other.

Conclusion:

Successful laparoscopic surgery incisional hernia mesh repair was associated with decreased risk of recurrence compared with OPEN and CONV.

Onlay Technique in Incisional Hernia Repair-A Systematic Review

Introduction: A meta-analysis that compared the onlay vs. sublay technique in open incisional hernia repair identified better outcomes for the sublay operation. Nonetheless, an Expert Consensus Guided by Systematic Review found the onlay mesh location useful in certain settings. Therefore, all studies on the onlay technique were once again collated and analyzed.

Materials and Methods: A systematic search of the available literature was performed in August 2018 using Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Springer Link, and the Cochrane Library. For the present analysis 42 publications were identified as relevant.

Results: In five prospective randomized trials and 17 observational studies the postoperative complication rates ranged between 5 and 76%, with a mean value of 33.5%. The recurrence rates in these studies also ranged between 0 and 32%, with a mean value of 9.9%. Hence, compared with the literature data on the sublay operation, more post-operative complications, in particular wound complications and seroma, with a comparable recurrence rate, were identified.

Conclusion: When the onlay technique is used in certain settings for incisional hernia repair, a careful dissection technique and prophylactic measures (drainage, abdominal binders, fibrin sealant) should be employed to prevent wound complications and seroma formation.

Open Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) Technique for Incisional Hernia Repair

In an Expert Consensus Guided by Systematic Review the panel agreed that for open elective incisional hernia repair sublay mesh location is preferred, but open intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) may be useful in certain settings. Accordingly, the available literature on the open IPOM technique was searched and evaluated. Material and Methods: A systematic search of the available literature was performed in July 2018 using Medline, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. Forty-five publications were identified as relevant for the key question. Results: Compared to laparoscopic IPOM, the open IPOM technique was associated with significantly higher postoperative complication rates and recurrence rates. For the open IPOM with a bridging situation the postoperative complication rate ranges between 3.3 and 72.0% with a mean value of 20.4% demonstrating high variance, as did the recurrence rate of between 0 and 61.0% with a mean value of 12.6%. Only on evaluation of the upward-deviating maximum values and registry data is a trend toward better outcomes for the sublay technique demonstrated. Through the use of a wide mesh overlap, avoidance of dissection in the abdominal wall and defect closure it appears possible to achieve better outcomes for the open IPOM technique. Conclusion: Compared to the laparoscopic technique, open IPOM is associated with significantly poorer outcomes. For the sublay technique the outcomes are quite similar and only tendentially worse. Further studies using an optimized open IPOM technique are urgently needed.

Use of imaging for pre- and post-operative characterisation of ventral hernia: systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Complex ventral hernia (CVH) repair is performed increasingly, exacerbated by the obesity epidemic. Imaging can characterise hernia morphology and diagnose recurrence. By systematic review we investigated the extent to which studies employ imaging.

METHODS

The PubMed database was searched for studies of ventral hernia repair from January 1995 to March 2016. Hernias of all size were eligible. Independent reviewers screened articles and extracted data from selected studies related to study design, use of pre- and post-operative hernia imaging and the proportion of subjects imaged. The review was registered: PROSPERO CRD42016043071.

RESULTS

15,771 records were identified initially. 174 full-texts were examined and 158 ultimately included in the systematic review [31 randomised controlled trials (RCTs); 32 cohort studies; 95 retrospective cohort studies]. 31,874 subjects were reported overall. Only 19 (12%) studies employed pre-operative imaging for hernia characterisation and 46 (29%) post-operatively [equating to 511 (2%) of all pre-operative subjects and 1123 (4%) post-operative]. Furthermore, most studies employing imaging did not do so in all subjects: Just 6 (4%) of the 158 studies used imaging in all subjects pre-operatively and just 4 (3%) post-operatively, i.e. imaging was usually applied to a proportion of patients only. Moreover, the exact proportion was frequently not specified. Studies using imaging frequently stated that "imaging", "radiography" or "radiology" was used but did not specify the modality precisely nor the proportion of subjects imaged.

CONCLUSION

Despite the ability to characterise ventral hernia morphology and recurrence with precision, most indexed studies do not employ imaging. Where imaging is used, data are often reported incompletely. Advances in knowledge: (1) This systematic review is the first to focus on the use of imaging in surgical studies of ventral hernia repair. (2) Studies of ventral hernia repair rarely use imaging, either to characterise hernias pre-operatively or to diagnose recurrence, despite the latter being the primary outcome of most studies. (3) Failure to use imaging will result in incomplete hernia characterisation and underestimate recurrence rates in studies of surgical repair.

What Is the Current Knowledge About Sublay/Retro-Rectus Repair of Incisional Hernias?

Introduction: There continues to be very little agreement among experts on the precise treatment strategy for incisional hernias. That is the conclusion drawn from the very limited scientific evidence available on the repair of incisional hernias. The present review now aims to critically assess the data available on the sublay/retro-rectus technique for repair of incisional hernia. Materials and Methods: A systematic search of the literature was performed in May 2018 using Medline, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. This article is based on 77 publications. Results: The number of available RCTs that permit evaluation of the role of the sublay/retro-rectus technique in the repair of only incisional hernia is very small. The existing data suggest that the sublay/retro-rectus technique has disadvantages compared with the laparoscopic IPOM technique for repair of incisional hernia, but in that respect has advantages over all other open techniques. However, the few existing studies provide only a limited level of evidence for assessment purposes. Conclusion: Further RCTs based on a standardized technique are urgently needed for evaluation of the role of the sublay/retro-rectus incisional hernia repair technique.

Postoperative Pain After Laparoscopic Repair of Primary Umbilical Hernia: Titanium Tacks Versus Absorbable Tacks: A Prospective Comparative Cohort Analysis of 80 Patients With a Long-term Follow-up

We investigated if a novel fixation device with absorbable tacks (Securestrap) causes less early and chronic postoperative pain after laparoscopic repair with a double-crown mesh fixation of ventral abdominal wall hernia when compared with the standard fixation device with nonabsorbable titanium tacks (Protack). The primary outcome measure was early postoperative pain at 2, 6, and 12 weeks postoperatively. The secondary outcome measure was chronic postoperative pain measured ≥18 months after surgery. Pain levels were assessed using a visual analog scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 100 mm (excruciating pain). Early postoperative pain was significantly lower in group 2 (absorbable tacks) at 6 (2 vs. 5; P=0.008) and 12 weeks (1 vs. 2; P=0.008) but not at follow-up (6 vs. 11; P=0.21). Given the very low visual analog scale scores in both groups, the clinical significance of these finding remains open to discussion.

Decreased re-operation rate for recurrence after defect closure in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with a permanent tack fixated mesh: a nationwide cohort study

PURPOSE

To investigate whether defect closure in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair reduces the re-operation rate for recurrence compared with no defect closure.

METHODS

Data were extracted from the Danish Ventral Hernia Database. Adults with an elective laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with tacks used as mesh fixation were included, if their first repair was between the 1st of January 2007 and the 1st of January 2017. Patients with defect closure were compared with no defect closure. Re-operation rates are presented as crude rates and cumulated adjusted re-operation rates. Sub-analyses assessed the effect of the suture material used during defect closure and also whether defect closure affected both primary and incisional hernias equally.

RESULTS

Among patients with absorbable tacks as mesh fixation, 443 received defect closure and 532 did not. For patients with permanent tacks, 393 had defect closure and 442 did not. For patients with permanent tacks as mesh fixation, the crude re-operation rates were 3.6% with defect closure and 7.2% without defect closure (p = 0.02). The adjusted cumulated re-operation rate was significantly reduced with defect closure and permanent tacks (hazard ratio = 0.53, 95% confidence interval = 0.28-0.999, p = 0.05). The sub-analysis suggested that defect closure was only beneficial for incisional hernias, and not primary hernias. We did not find any benefits of defect closure for patients with absorbable tacks as mesh fixation.

CONCLUSION

This nationwide cohort study showed a reduced risk of re-operation for recurrence if defect closure was performed in addition to permanent tacks as mesh fixation during laparoscopic incisional hernia repair.

Current Status and Challenges of Laparoscopy in Ventral Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic repair of ventral hernias gained strong popularity in the late nineties with some of the early enthusiasm lost later in time. We review the current status and challenges of laparoscopy in ventral hernia repair and best practices in this area. We specifically looked at patient and hernia defect factors, technical considerations that have contributed to the successes, and some of the failures of laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR). Patients best suited for a laparoscopic repair are those who are obese and diabetic with a total defect size not to exceed 10 cm in width or a "Swiss cheese" defect. Overlap of mesh to healthy fascia of at least 5 cm in every direction, with closure of the defect, is essential to prevent recurrence or bulging over time. Complications specifically related to surgical site occurrence favor the laparoscopic approach. Recurrence rates, satisfaction, and health-related quality of life results are similar to open repairs, but long-term data are lacking. There is still conflicting data regarding ways of fixating the mesh. The science of prosthetic material appropriate for intraperitoneal placement continues to evolve. The field continues to be plagued by single author, single institution, and small nonrandomized observational studies with short-term follow-up. The recent development of large prospective databases might allow for pragmatic and point-of-care studies with long-term follow-up. We conclude that LVHR has evolved since its inception, has overcome many challenges, but still needs better long-term studies to evaluate evolving practices.

Evolution and advances in laparoscopic ventral and incisional hernia repair

Primary ventral hernias and ventral incisional hernias have been a challenge for surgeons throughout the ages. In the current era, incisional hernias have increased in prevalence due to the very high number of laparotomies performed in the 20^th century. Even though minimally invasive surgery and hernia repair have evolved rapidly, general surgeons have yet to develop the ideal, standardized method that adequately decreases common postoperative complications, such as wound failure, hernia recurrence and pain. The evolution of laparoscopy and ventral hernia repair will be reviewed, from the rectoscopy of the 4^th century to the advent of laparoscopy, from suture repair to the evolution of mesh reinforcement. The nuances of minimally invasive ventral and incisional hernia repair will be summarized, from preoperative considerations to variations in intraoperative practice. New techniques have become increasingly popular, such as primary defect closure, retrorectus mesh placement, and concomitant component separation. The advent of robotics has made some of these repairs more feasible, but only time and well-designed clinical studies will tell if this will be a durable modality for ventral and incisional hernia repair.

Intraperitoneal onlay mesh reinforcement of the abdominal wall: a new surgical option for treatment of anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome-a retrospective cohort analysis of 30 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to introduce a new surgical treatment for anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome, a frequently unrecognised disorder in the general population responsible for chronic abdominal wall pain with limited treatment options to date. We hypothesised that intraperitoneal onlay mesh reinforcement could dissipate excessive increases in intra-abdominal pressure and prevent entrapment of the neurovascular bundle.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort analysis was performed between September 2002 and March 2014. All consecutive patients diagnosed with anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome refractory to conservative treatment (n = 30) underwent laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh reinforcement of the painful area in the abdominal wall. Planned follow-up took place at 2, 6 and 12 weeks after surgery and at time of analysis (March 2015). Primary outcome was patients' satisfaction after treatment at short and long term (last follow-up) using a verbal rating score as measurement (1 = I am very satisfied; I never experience pain, 2 = I am satisfied; I occasionally experience some pain, 3 = I have improved but experience pain on a regular basis, 4 = I have had no result on this treatment, 5 = my pain is worse after treatment). Scores 1 and 2 were classified as success, and scores 4 and 5 as failure of the treatment.

RESULTS

Thirty patients underwent laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh reinforcement. None were lost to follow-up (mean 54 ± 44 months, range 12-122, median 38). Short- and long-term success rates were 90 and 71 %, respectfully.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraperitoneal onlay mesh reinforcement of the abdominal wall seems to be a promising option for the treatment of intractable anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome.

Is pooled data analysis of ventral and incisional hernia repair acceptable?

PURPOSE

In meta-analyses and systematic reviews comparing laparoscopic with open repair of ventral hernias, data on umbilical, epigastric, and incisional hernias are pooled. Based on data from the Herniamed Hernia Registry, we aimed to investigate whether the differences in the therapy and treatment results justified such an approach.

METHODS

Between 1st September 2009 and 31st August 2013, 31,664 patients with a ventral hernia were enrolled in the Herniamed Hernia Registry. The implicated hernias included 16,206 umbilical hernias, 3,757 epigastric hernias, and 11,701 incisional hernias. Data on the surgical techniques, postoperative complication rates, and 1-year follow-up results were subjected to statistical analysis to identify any significant differences between the various hernia types.

RESULTS

The laparoscopic IPOM technique was used significantly more often for incisional hernia than for epigastric hernia, 31.3 vs. 24.0%, respectively, and was used for 12.9% of umbilical hernias (p < 0.0001). Likewise, the open technique with suturing of defect was used significantly more often for umbilical hernia than for epigastric hernia, 56.1 vs. 35.4%, respectively, and was used for 12.5% of incisional hernias (p < 0.0001). The postoperative complication rates of 3.2% for umbilical hernia and 3.5% for epigastric hernia were significantly lower than for incisional hernia, at 9.2% (p < 0.0001). That was also true for the reoperation rates due to postoperative complications, of 1.0 vs. 1.2 vs. 4.2% (p < 0.0001). The 1-year follow-up revealed significantly higher recurrence rates as well as rates of chronic pain needing treatment of 6.3 and 7.9%, respectively, for incisional hernia, compared with 4.1 and 4.3%, respectively, for epigastric hernia, and 2 and 1.9%, respectively, for umbilical hernia (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Since significant differences were identified in the therapy and treatment results between umbilical hernia, epigastric hernia, and incisional hernia, scientific studies should be conducted comparing the various surgical techniques only for a single hernia type.

Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair: outcomes in primary versus incisional hernias: no effect of defect closure

PURPOSE

Supposing divergent aetiology, we found it interesting to investigate outcomes between primary (PH) versus incisional (IH) hernias. In addition, we wanted to analyse the effect of defect closure and mesh fixation techniques.

METHODS

37 patients with PH and 70 with IH were enrolled in a prospective cohort-study, treated with laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) and randomised to ± transfascial sutures. In addition, we analysed results from a retrospective study with 36 PH and 51 IH patients. Mean follow-up time was 38 months in the prospective study and 27 months in the retrospective study.

RESULTS

35 % of PH's and 10 % of IH's were recurrences after previous suture repair. No late infections or mesh removals occurred. Recurrence rates in the prospective study were 0 vs. 4.3 % (p = 0.55) and the complication rates were 16 vs. 27 % (p = 0.24) in favour of the PH cohort. The IH group had a mesh protrusion rate of 13 vs. 5 % in the PH group (p = 0.32), and significantly (p < 0.01) larger hernias and adhesion score, longer operating time (100 vs. 79 min) and admission time (2.8 vs. 1.6 days). Closure of the hernia defect did not influence rate of seroma, pain at 2 months, protrusion or recurrence. An overall increased complication rate was seen after defect closure (OR 3.42; CI 1.25-9.33).

CONCLUSIONS

With PH, in comparison to IH treated with LVHR, no differences were observed regarding recurrence, protrusion or complication rates. Defect closure (raphe), when using absorbable suture, did not benefit long-term outcomes and caused a higher overall complication rate. (ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT00455299).