Laparoscopic incisional hernia repair

Recurrences after laparoscopic ventral hernia repair: results and critical review

We describe the whole cohort of patients operated on laparoscopically for ventral hernias at our institution. Information on early results, complications, and long-term follow-up was collected prospectively. Of 90 operations attempted, five (5.8%) required conversion. Of the remaining 85 patients, 65 (76%) had an incisional hernia, while 20 (24%) had primary defects. Three trocars were routinely employed (Hasson and two 5-mm). The prosthetic mesh used was ePTFE inserted through the first trocar and fixed using helicoidal staplers. Patients were periodically followed in the outpatient clinic for at least 12 months postoperatively and contacted at the time of this review. Mean operative time was 101 min. We had three small bowel injuries repaired laparoscopically. Postoperative pain was limited. Bowel movements, deambulation, and discharge were prompt. We had six (7%) urinary retentions, eight (9%) seromas, three (3.5%) cases of pneumonia, two (2%) cases of postoperative vomiting, and one (1%) prolonged ileus, which resolved spontaneously on postoperative day 2. Mean postoperative stay was 4 days. One patient was readmitted after 4 weeks with incomplete obstruction, resolved conservatively. There were three recurrences (3.5%), which developed within 1 year of the operation, and a trocar-site herniation (1%). The technique appears safe and efficacious.

Learning curve for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair

PURPOSE

To test if there was any difference in the indications and early outcomes of laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) during a 36-month period at a single institution.

METHODS

From August 1999 to August 2002, 64 consecutive, unselected patients underwent attempted LVHR. The patients were retrospectively divided into two groups: group 1 included the first 32 patients, and group 2 included the second 32 patients. Data regarding patient demographics, results, and postoperative follow-up were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

Demographic characteristics, types of hernia, preoperative records, and hernia defects were well matched between the groups. Four patients in group 1 required conversion to laparotomy for bowel injuries, whereas no conversion was required in group 2 (12% vs 0%, P = 0.11 [NS]). The operative times and complication rates were similar, but bowel injuries were significantly more common in group 1 (19% vs 0%, P = 0.02), including the patients who were converted. The analgesic requirement was small and the hospital stay short in both groups; the differences were not significant. Three recurrences were noted in group 1 and none were noted in group 2, although follow-up was not comparable in the second group.

CONCLUSIONS

A learning curve is needed to decrease conversions and bowel injuries during LVHR. The improved experience could permit the treatment of larger defects laparoscopically.