Selective muscle botulinum toxin A component paralysis in complex ventral hernia repair

Preoperative Botulinum Toxin A (BTA) injection in abdominal wall reconstruction for subxiphoid (M1) hernias

INTRODUCTION

Preoperative BTA assists with fascial closure during abdominal wall reconstruction. Its efficacy in subxiphoid (M1) hernias has been questioned with high rates of component separation techniques (CST) despite BTA. To assess the role of BTA in these hernias, we compared fascial closure and recurrence rates in patients with M1 hernias requiring CST with or without preoperative BTA.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database at a tertiary hernia center was reviewed for M1 hernias who underwent CST, and grouped based on use of preoperative BTA. Standard univariate analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Of 67 patients, 30 (44.8%) received preoperative BTA. BTA versus non-BTA groups had similar mean ages (56.0 ± 14.1vs.61.5 ± 11.8 years, p = 0.087), ASA score (p = 0.345), rate of diabetes (p = 0.421), and very large defect size (499.2 ± 185.5vs.416.1 ± 238.6 cm2,p = 0.144). In the BTA group, BMI was lower (28.9 ± 5.1vs.32.7 ± 7.2 kg/m2,p = 0.018), with fewer current smokers (0%vs.10.8%,p = 0.006), and more contaminated (20.0%vs.5.4%) and dirty cases (33.3%vs.13.5%) (p = 0.008). External oblique release was performed in 24 (80.0%) BTA patients versus 23 (62.2%) non-BTA (p = 0.179), posterior CST in 6 (20.0%) versus 14 (37.8%) (p = 0.133). Rates of bilateral CST (90.0%vs.94.6% p = 0.394), fascial closure (90.0%vs.94.6%,p = 0.650), overall wound complications (33.3%vs.43.2%,p = 0.458), and recurrence (6.7%vs.2.7%,p = 0.583) were similar with average follow up of 12.7 ± 18.8 versus 24.1 ± 28.2 months (p = 0.062).

CONCLUSION

Repair of very large M1 hernias requires high rates of CST despite preoperative BTA injection. When CST is needed, BTA as a preoperative adjunct does not appear to offer benefit in terms of fascial closure rates, frequency of bilateral CST, or risk of recurrence.

Does sarcopenia have a negative impact on the efficacy of botulinum toxin A in the prehabilitation of patients undergoing incisional hernia repair? A multicentric retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Botulinum toxin A (BTA) injections are increasingly used to prepare patients undergoing surgery for incisional hernias larger than 10 cm. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of sarcopenia on the efficacy of BTA injection in lengthening the lateral abdominal muscles.

METHODS

Between August 2018 and January 2024, patients with midline incisional hernias ≥ 10 cm undergoing preoperative BTA injections were included in a multicentric database. Sarcopenia was evaluated calculating the muscle area measured on a transverse CT scan at the level of the L3 lumbar vertebra. Muscle characteristics and the volumes of the incisional hernia and abdominal cavity were compared before and 4 to 6 weeks after BTA injection. The effect of BTA on muscle elongation was evaluated according to sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients were included. Sarcopenia did not impair the efficacy of BTA in terms of length of the lateral abdominal wall muscles, with a 1.8 cm increase bilaterally in each group. Regarding the efficacy of BTA injection, 80% of patients experienced elongation of the lateral abdominal wall muscles. Failure of the injection therefore affected 20% of patients. These results were similar in both groups, regardless of sarcopenia. Analysis of the characteristics of 'responders' and 'nonresponders' revealed that 'nonresponders' had a greater length of the lateral abdominal wall muscles on the scan prior to BTA injection, likely due to less significant muscle retraction.

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia did not impair the effectiveness of BTA in terms of elongation prior to incisional hernia repair.

[The use of botulinum toxin in hernia surgery: results of a survey in certified hernia centers]

BACKGROUND

Botulinum toxin application into the abdominal wall prior to major hernia repair can reduce the complexity of surgery and has been increasingly used in recent years, even if it is an off-label use.

OBJECTIVE

To what extent is botulinum toxin used in hernia surgery in German-speaking countries and what is the current evidence in the literature?

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In a voluntary online survey of German Society for General and Visceral Surgery (DGAV)-certified competence centers and reference centers for hernia surgery, aspects of botulinum toxin application were surveyed and the results analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 57 centers took part in the survey, of which 27 (47%) use botulinum toxin. The main reasons for not using it were lack of experience and reimbursement. Of the centers 85% have treated less than 50 patients with botulinum toxin. The main indications were midline hernias (M2-4 according to the EHS classification) with a hernia gap > 10 cm (W3 according to EHS classification) and loss of domain situations. The application was predominantly ultrasound-guided by designated hernia surgeons with 100-200 Allergan or 500 Speywood units 4-6 weeks preoperatively and without complications related to the botulinum toxin application.

CONCLUSION

Botulinum toxin injections in hernia surgery appear to be safe and effective. Ultrasound-guided preoperative bilateral administration is supported by the available data. Specific course and information formats should be offered by the hernia surgery institutions.

Early placement of a non-invasive, pressure-regulated, fascial reapproximation device improves reduction of the fascial gap in open abdomens: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Since current fascial traction methods involve invasive procedures, they are generally employed late in the management of the open abdomen (OA). This study aimed to evaluate early versus late placement of a non-invasive, pressure-regulated device for fascial reapproximation and gap reduction in OA patients.

Methods

The study included all patients who had the abdominal fascia intentionally left open after damage control operation for trauma and emergency general surgery and were managed with the device in an academic hospital between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2023. Time of device placement in relation to the end of index laparotomy was defined as early (≤24 hours) versus late (>24 hours). Time-related mid-incisional width reduction of the fascial gap and fascial closure were assessed using descriptive and linear regression analysis.

Results

There was a significantly higher percent reduction in the fascial gap at the midpoint of the laparotomies in the early (≤24 hours) AbClo placement group compared with the late (>24 hours) AbClo placement group, respectively, median 76% versus 43%, p<0.001. Linear regression adjusting for body mass index and the number of takebacks indicated that fascial approximation was 22% higher for early placement (β=0.22; CI 0.12, 0.33, p<0.001). Primary myofascial closure rate with early (≤24 hours) application of the device was 98% versus 85% with late application.

Conclusion

Early non-invasive application of the device (≤24 hours) after the initial laparotomy resulted in greater reduction of the fascial gap and higher primary fascial closure rate compared with late placement (>24 hours). Early non-invasive intervention could prevent abdominal wall myofascial retraction in OA patients.

Level of evidence

IV.

Case Report: Tissue Expanders-Another Tool in the Armamentarium for the Treatment of Complex Ventral Hernia

Complex abdominal wall hernias represent a significant reconstructive challenge to the general surgeon. In patients with loss of abdominal domain, standard surgical techniques such as anterior component separation or transversus abdominus muscle release may not allow for primary fascial closure. In complex ventral wall hernias, visceroabdominal disproportion may need to be addressed prior to an attempt at hernia repair. Tissue expanders placed in the intermuscular space is a novel technique used to increase intraabdominal volume and safely allow reduction of viscera with subsequent closure of the myofascia. We present the case of an adult patient with complications of an untreated congenital omphalocele who underwent a successful two stage operation using tissue expanders in the abdominal wall combined with anterior component separation.

Use of botulinum toxin type A in the prehabilitation of abdominal wall musculature for hernia repair: a consensus proposal

The prehabilitation of the abdominal wall through the infiltration of botulinum toxin type A, which induces temporary chemical denervation ("chemical component separation") in the lateral abdominal musculature, is a common practice in units specialized in abdominal wall surgery. However, its use for this indication is currently off-label. The main objective of this article is to describe a consensus proposal regarding indications, contraindications, dosages employed, potential side effects, administration method, and measurement of possible outcomes. Additionally, a proposal for an informed consent document endorsed by the Abdominal Wall Section of the Spanish Association of Surgeons is attached.

Botulinum toxin A in complex incisional hernia repair: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and short and long-term postoperative results of using BTA.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review following the recommendations of the PRISMA method. We systematically reviewed the MEDLINE/PubMed and SCOPUS electronic databases for studies published between January 2010 and September 2021. This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO, with registration number CRD42021252445.

RESULTS

After applying the selection criteria, 11 relevant articles were selected. The total sample size was 1058 patients. Most studies aimed to assess the rate of fascial closure, followed by the rate of recurrence and reporting of postoperative complications, as well as the need for the components separation technique (CST). None of the studies reported serious complications from using BTA. Regarding fascial closure, all articles had rates above 75%, except for one. Surgical site events ranged between 19% and 29.4%. No recurrence in the group that used BTA was recorded in five studies. The other articles reported recurrence rates ranging from 6.4 to 11.4% in the groups that received BTA. The studies had varying follow-up times ranging from 1 to 49 months, with a mean of 18.6 months (± 11.2).

CONCLUSION

This review described most of the key points about the preoperative use of BTA in hernia repair. It can be concluded that the use of BTA is a safe and effective practice that promotes good short and long-term results. However, the limitations of the current literature prevent more accurate conclusions on the subject.

Botulinum Toxin A as an Adjunct for the Repair Giant Inguinal Hernias: Case Reports and a Review of the Literature

The management of giant inguinoscrotal hernias remains a challenge as a result of the loss of the intra-abdominal domain from long-standing hernia contents within the scrotum. Multiple techniques have been described for abdominal wall relaxation and augmentation to allow the safe return of viscera from the scrotum to the intraperitoneal cavity without adversely affecting cardiorespiratory physiology. Preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum, phrenectomy, and component separation are but a few common techniques previously described as adjuncts to the management of these massively large hernias. However, these strategies require an additional invasive stage, and reproducibility remains challenging. Botulinum toxin A (BTA) has been successfully used for the management of complex ventral hernias. Its use for these hernias has shown reproducibility and a low side effect profile. In the present report, we describe our institutional experience with BTA for giant inguinal hernias in two patients and present a review of the literature. In one case, a 77-year-old man with a substantial cardiac history presented with a giant left inguinal hernia that was interfering with his activities of daily living. He had BTA six weeks prior to inguinal hernia repair. Repair was performed via an inguinal incision with a favorable return of the viscera into the peritoneum. He was discharged on the same day of the operation. A second patient, 78 years of age, had a giant right inguinoscrotal hernia. He had a significant cardiac history and was treated with BTA six weeks prior to inguinal hernia repair via a groin incision. Neither patient had complaints nor recurrence at 7- and 3-month follow-ups. While the literature on this topic is scarce, we found 13 cases of inguinal hernias treated with BTA as an adjunct. BTA might be a promising adjunct for the management of giant inguinoscrotal hernias in addition to or in place of current strategies.

Botulinum Toxin and Progressive Pneumoperitoneum in Loss of Domain Ventral Hernias: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP) and botulinum toxin A (BTX) have been used together in the preoperative preparation of patients with loss of domain hernias. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combined use of PPP and BTX. Methods: A systematic electronic search was performed according to the PRISMA criteria. A literature search of scientific articles was conducted up to December 2023. Articles were chosen based on the reference to BTX and PPP in loss of domain ventral hernias with a defect width greater than 10 cm before surgery. The GRADE methodology and the modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale were used to assess the quality of the studies. Results: The research yielded seven articles, with 217 patients analysed in total. BTX was performed 29.5 ± 1.7 days before surgery and PPP was inflated 14.8 ± 5.8 days before surgery. PPP complications were reported in 25.6% of patients, The average reduction of the volume of hernia (VH)/volume of the abdominal cavity (VAC) ratio was 7.6% (range 0.9%-15%). Only 40 patients (18.4%) required a PCS or TAR to repair the loss of domain hernias. The SSI and SSO rates were 17.5% and 26.2%, respectively. No differences in SSI and SSO rates were found between the different repair techniques. The recurrence rate was 5.9% (13/217). Recurrence was significantly higher in patients who underwent IPOM repair than other techniques (p < 0.001). Conclusion: BTX and PPP may be useful tools for the management of loss of domain hernias presenting lower SSI and SSO. The combination of BTX and PPP reduces the use of more invasive repair techniques.

Open Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

This article provides an approach to open complex abdominal wall reconstruction. Herein, the authors discuss the purpose of component separation as well as its relevant indications. The techniques and anatomical considerations of both anterior and posterior component separation are described. In addition, patient selection criteria, preoperative adjuncts that may assist with fascial or soft tissue closure, and complications of component separation will be discussed.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the pre-operative application of botulinum toxin for ventral hernia repair

PURPOSE

Surgical repair of large hernia defects requires detailed pre-operative planning, particularly in cases with loss of domain. This situation often hampers mid-line reconstruction, even after component separation, when the size of the hernia is disproportional to the volume of the abdominal area. In this case, other strategies may be needed to place the viscera back into the abdominal cavity after reducing the hernia sac. The administration of botulinum toxin prior to the surgical procedure has been indicated as an adjunct for more complex cases. This results in stretching of the lateral musculature of the abdomen, allowing midline approximation. In addition, the application of botulinum toxin alone has been investigated as a means of downstaging in the management of ventral hernias, thereby precluding component separation and enabling primary closure of the midline by placement of mesh within the retromuscular space using the Rives Stoppa technique.

METHODS

Systematic review of the literature for observational studies involving patients undergoing pre-operative application of botulinum toxin for ventral hernia repair was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

Advance of the lateral musculature of the abdomen by an average of 4.11 cm with low heterogeneity, as well as low rates of surgical site infection (SSI), surgical site occurrences (SSO) and recurrence, was shown.

CONCLUSION

Pre-operative application of botulinum toxin for ventral hernia repair promoted an increase in the length of the lateral musculature of the abdomen which can help improve the outcomes of morbidity and recurrence.

Comparison of Two Versus Three Bilateral Botulinum Toxin Injections Prior to Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Background: Intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin A (BTA) induces a temporary muscle paralysis. In patients with a ventral hernia, preoperative injection of BTA in the muscles of the lateral abdominal wall (LAW) leads to thinning and lengthening of these muscles, making fascial closure more likely. In many hernia centres, treatment with BTA prior to abdominal wall reconstruction has therefore become standard care. However, evidence on the optimal BTA strategy is lacking. Methods: In this single-centre retrospective study, we analysed a consecutive cohort of ventral hernia patients that underwent bilateral BTA injections prior to abdominal wall reconstruction with available CT before and after BTA. We only included patients that were treated with exactly 600 units of Dysport®, diluted into 120 mL of saline, via either two- or three injections on each side into all three LAW muscle layers. The primary outcome was the change in LAW muscle length and thickness, comparing CT measures from before BTA and 4-6 weeks after the injections. Results: We analysed 67 patients; 30 had received two injections bilaterally and 37 had received three injections bilaterally. Baseline data showed no significant differences in LAW muscle thickness or length between groups. In both groups, the median LAW muscle thickness decreased with 0.5 cm (p < 0.001). The LAW muscle length increased with 0.9 cm (p = 0.001) and 1.2 cm (p < 0.001) in the two- and three bilateral injection group, respectively. The BTA-induced changes in LAW thickness and length were not significantly different between both groups (p = 0.809 and p = 0.654, respectively). Discussion: When using the exact same dosage and distribution volume of BTA in patients with a complex abdominal wall defect, two injections bilaterally in the lateral abdominal wall muscles are as effective as three injections bilaterally.

Is there a role for botulinum toxin A in the emergency setting for delayed abdominal wall closure in the management of the open abdomen? A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Emergency laparotomy for either trauma or non-trauma indications is common and management is varied. Use of the open abdomen technique allowing for planned re-look is an option; however, performing delayed definitive fascial closure (DFC) following this can be a challenge. The use of botulinum toxin-A (BTX) infiltration into the lateral abdominal wall has been well documented within the elective setting; its use within the emergency setting is undecided. This systematic review assesses the efficacy and safety of BTX injection into the lateral abdominal wall muscles in the emergency setting. The primary outcome is DFC rate.

METHODS

Systematic review was performed according to the PROSPERO registered protocol (CRD42020205130). Papers were dual screened for eligibility, and included if they met pre-stated criteria where the primary outcome was DFC. Articles reporting fewer than five cases were excluded. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias and Joanna Brigg's appraisal tools.

FINDINGS

Fourteen studies were screened for eligibility, twelve full texts were reviewed and two studies were included. Both studies showed evidence of bias due to confounding factors and lack of reporting. Both studies suggested significantly higher rates of DFC than reported in the literature against standard technique (90.7% vs 66%); however, these data are difficult to interpret due to strict study inclusion criteria or lack of a control population.

CONCLUSION

The use of BTX is deemed safe and its effects in the emergency situation may have great potential. Unfortunately, to date, there is insufficient evidence to facilitate opinion.

State-of-the-art abdominal wall reconstruction and closure

Open ventral hernia repair is one of the most common operations performed by general surgeons. Appropriate patient selection and preoperative optimization are important to ensure high-quality outcomes and prevent hernia recurrence. Preoperative adjuncts such as the injection of botulinum toxin and progressive preoperative pneumoperitoneum are proven to help achieve fascial closure in patients with hernia defects and/or loss of domain. Operatively, component separation techniques are performed on complex hernias in order to medialize the rectus fascia and achieve a tension-free closure. Other important principles of hernia repair include complete reduction of the hernia sac, wide mesh overlap, and techniques to control seroma and other wound complications. In the setting of contamination, a delayed primary closure of the skin and subcutaneous tissues should be considered to minimize the chance of postoperative wound complications. Ultimately, the aim for hernia surgeons is to mitigate complications and provide a durable repair while improving patient quality of life.

Physical activity recommendations pre and post abdominal wall reconstruction: a scoping review of the evidence

PURPOSE

There are no universally agreed guidelines regarding which types of physical activity are safe and/or recommended in the perioperative period for patients undergoing ventral hernia repair or abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). This study is intended to identify and summarise the literature on this topic.

METHODS

Database searches of PubMed, CINAHL, Allied & Complementary medicine database, PEDro and Web of Science were performed followed by a snowballing search using two papers identified by the database search and four hand-selected papers of the authors' choosing. Inclusion-cohort studies, randomized controlled trials, prospective or retrospective. Studies concerning complex incisional hernia repairs and AWRs including a "prehabilitation" and/or "rehabilitation" program targeting the abdominal wall muscles in which the interventions were of a physical exercise nature. RoB2 and Robins-I were used to assess risk of bias. Prospero CRD42021236745. No external funding. Data from the included studies were extracted using a table based on the Cochrane Consumers and Communication Review Group's data extraction template.

RESULTS

The database search yielded 5423 records. After screening two titles were selected for inclusion in our study. The snowballing search identified 49 records. After screening one title was selected for inclusion in our study. Three total papers were included-two randomised studies and one cohort study (combined 423 patients). All three studies subjected their patients to varying types of physical activity preoperatively, one study also prescribed these activities postoperatively. The outcomes differed between the studies therefore meta-analysis was impossible-two studies measured hernia recurrence, one measured peak torque. All three studies showed improved outcomes in their study groups compared to controls however significant methodological flaws and confounding factors existed in all three studies. No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature supporting the advice given to patients regarding recommended physical activity levels in the perioperative period for AWR patients is sparse. Further research is urgently required on this subject.

Prehabilitation of complex ventral hernia patients with Botulinum: a systematic review of the quantifiable effects of Botulinum

PURPOSE

Complex ventral hernia repair (CVHR) encompasses patient optimization, primary fascial closure (PFC), mesh reinforcement and component separation technique (CST), if needed. High rates of complications after CST are still reported. Prehabilitation by managing pre-operative modifiable risk factors, like abdominal wall compliance, possibly reduces these rates. Compliance can be modified by intramuscular injection of Botulinum in the lateral abdominal wall muscles (LAWM). Paralysis leads to elongation of these muscles, which may facilitate PFC and/or prevent CST. Evidence to use Botulinum in hernia patients is scarce and fragmented. An update of evidence for the effect of Botulinum is presented.

METHODS

A multi-database search was conducted for Botulinum studies in ventral hernia patients. A systematic review was performed to describe its primary effect on compliance (LAWM elongation) and secondary effects like PFC ± CST rate, complications and recurrence.

RESULTS

14 studies were included (377 patients) with a HDW of median 12 (10-15) cm. A typical intervention consisted of 200-300 U Botulinum in 3 points per hemi-abdomen under US guidance, > 2 weeks pre-operatively and evaluated by CT just before the operation. The primary effect was a median LAWM elongation of 4.0 cm per side without complications of the injection (four studies, 107 patients). The median PFC rate was 100%, CST rate 38%, wound-related complications 19%, medical complications 18% and recurrence 0% (14 studies).

CONCLUSION

Botulinum safely elongates the abdominal wall muscles, but the level of evidence available remains low. Any patient in whom PFC is expected to be difficult, could be a candidate for prehabilitation with Botulinum.

Preoperative Progressive Pneumoperitoneum Revisited

Incisional hernia represents a common and potentially serious complication of open abdominal surgery, with up to 20% of all patients undergoing laparotomy subsequently developing an incisional hernia. This incidence increases to as much as 35% for laparotomies performed in high-risk patients and emergency procedures. A rarely used technique for enabling closure of large ventral hernias with loss of domain is preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP), which uses intermittent insufflation to gradually stretch the contracted abdominal wall muscles, increasing the capacity of the abdominal cavity and allowing viscera to re-establish right of domain. This assists in tension-free closure of giant hernias which may otherwise be considered inoperable. This technique may be used on its own, or in conjunction with preoperative Botulinum Toxin A to confer paralysis to the lateral oblique muscles. These two complementary techniques, are changing the way complex hernias are managed.

The Use of Botulinum Toxin in Complex Hernia Surgery: Achieving a Sense of Closure

Abdominal wall surgeons have developed a host of tools to help facilitate fascial closure. Botulinum toxin A is one of the most recently identified treatments and has grown in popularity over recent years; showing great promise in a number of case series and cohort studies. The toxin paralyses lateral abdominal wall muscles in order to increase laxity of the tissues—facilitating medialisation of the rectus muscles. Several research groups around the world are developing expertise with its use-uncovering its potential. We present a review of the relevant literature over the last two decades, summarising the key evidence behind its indications, dosing and effects.

Ultrasound-Guided Lateral Abdominal Wall Botulinum Toxin Injection Before Ventral Hernia Repair: A Review for Radiologists

Preoperative ultrasound-guided lateral abdominal wall botulinum toxin injection is a promising method for improving patient outcomes and reducing recurrence rates after ventral hernia repair. A review of the literature demonstrates variability in the procedural technique, without current standardization of protocols. As radiologists may be increasingly asked to perform ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin injections of the lateral abdominal wall, familiarity with the procedure and current literature is necessary.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of technical aspects and clinical outcomes of botulinum toxin prior to abdominal wall reconstruction

Purpose

To systematically review technical aspects and treatment regimens of botulinum toxin A (BTA) injections in the lateral abdominal wall musculature. We also investigated the effect of BTA on abdominal muscle- and hernia dimensions, and clinical outcome.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL were searched for studies that investigate the injection of BTA in the lateral abdominal wall muscles. Study characteristics, BTA treatment regimens, surgical procedures, and clinical outcomes are presented descriptively. The effect of BTA on muscle- and hernia dimensions is analyzed using random-effects meta-analyses, and exclusively for studies that investigate ventral incisional hernia patients.

Results

We identified 23 studies, comprising 995 patients. Generally, either 500 units of Dysport^® or 200–300 units of Botox^® are injected at 3–5 locations bilaterally in all three muscles of the lateral abdominal wall, about 4 weeks prior to surgery. No major procedural complications are reported. Meta-analyses show that BTA provides significant elongation of the lateral abdominal wall of 3.2 cm per side (95% CI 2.0–4.3, I² = 0%, p < 0.001); 6.3 cm total elongation, and a significant but heterogeneous decrease in transverse hernia width (95% CI 0.2–6.8, I² = 94%, p = 0.04). Furthermore, meta-analysis shows that BTA pretreatment in ventral hernia patients significantly increases the fascial closure rate [RR 1.08 (95% CI 1.02–1.16, I² = 0%, p = 0.02)].

Conclusion

The injection technique and treatment regimens of botulinum toxin A as well as patient selection require standardization. Bilateral pretreatment in hernia patients significantly elongates the lateral abdominal wall muscles, making fascial closure during surgical hernia repair more likely.

Study registration

A review protocol for this meta-analysis was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42020198246).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10029-021-02499-1.

Is simultaneous panniculectomy an ideal approach to repair a ventral hernia: a general surgeon's experience

BACKGROUND

The number of Australian patients undergoing ventral hernia repair has seen a significant increase in the last twenty years. With the obesity epidemic, the general surgeon is frequently seeing patients with hernias and significant abdominal aprons and is being asked to address this at the time of the hernia repair. This can be performed utilising a general surgery and plastic surgery team, but there may be some advantages to general surgeon being able incorporate this into their practice. We present our approach to patients undergoing ventral hernia repair and simultaneous panniculectomy (VHR + PAN) by a single general surgeon.

METHODS

Data were analysed from a single surgeon's experience performing VHR + PAN at the same operation. Data were collected prospectively from 2009 to 2020. 146 cases of patients undergoing VHR + PAN were identified and included in this study.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients undergoing VHR + PAN was 58 years. The mean BMI was 35, with 59% of patients losing weight loss prior to surgery. 66% of patients had a hernia repair with biosynthetic mesh and 91% of patients had retro-rectus or pre-peritoneal mesh approach to the repair. 42% of patients had a post-operative complication with 80.6% of these being related to surgical-site occurrences. Other complications included gastrointestinal (14%), respiratory (13%) and venous thromboembolism, such as a deep vein thrombus or pulmonary embolism (6%). There were 2 deaths in the series (1.3%). The hernia recurrence rate was 6%.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous PAN is possible in patients with an abdominal apron who are undergoing VHR, with an acceptable risk of SSOs and other complications. This technique provides excellent exposure and with appropriate training is well within the remit of the general surgeon. This may save further operative management in the future and can offer patients improved self-esteem, mobility, and independence. Patient optimisation is key, paying careful attention to pre-operative weight loss, diabetic control, smoking cessation and respiratory function. VHR + PAN is an important technique that should be in the repertoire of all abdominal wall reconstruction units.

Botulinum Toxin in the Surgical Treatment of Complex Abdominal Hernias: A Surgical Anatomy Approach, Current Evidence and Outcomes

BACKGROUND/AIM

Abdominal wall hernias represent a common problem in surgical practice. A significant proportion of them entails large defects, often difficult to primarily close without advanced techniques. Injection of botulinum toxin preoperatively at specific points targeting lateral abdominal wall musculature has been recently introduced as an adjunct in achieving primary fascia closure rates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was conducted investigating the role of botulinum toxin in abdominal wall reconstruction focusing on anatomic repair of hernia defects.

RESULTS

Injecting botulinum toxin preoperatively achieved chemical short-term paralysis of the lateral abdominal wall muscles, enabling a tension-free closure of the midline, which according to anatomic and clinical studies should be the goal of hernia repair. No significant complications from botulinum injections for complex hernias were reported.

CONCLUSION

Botulinum is a significant adjunct to complex abdominal wall reconstruction. Further studies are needed to standardize protocols and create more evidence.

Seven years of preoperative BTA abdominal wall preparation and the Macquarie system for surgical management of complex ventral hernia

PURPOSE

To assess 7-year outcomes after complex ventral hernia (CVH) repair using pre-operative Botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection and the Macquarie System of management.

METHODS

Clinical examination and functional non-contrast abdominal CT scans were used to assess complications and recurrences encountered in a prospective series of 88 consecutive CVH repairs using pre-operative BTA injection (200 or 300 units) between November 2012 and December 2019. Pre-operative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP) and/or component separation (CS) were also used in some cases.

RESULTS

All hernia defects (mean transverse width 12.9 ± 5.2 cm) were successfully closed using either laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted open techniques facilitated by pre-operative BTA injection. The mean pre-operative post-BTA lateral oblique length gain was 4.7 ± 2.2 cm/side (p < 0.001). In 43 patients with defects < 12 cm wide, closure was achieved using BTA-only in 33 (76.7%), BTA + PPP in 2 (4.7%), BTA + CS in 5 (11.6%) and BTA + PPP + CS in 3 (7.0%). In the remaining 45 patients with defects [Formula: see text] 12 cm wide, closure was achieved using BTA-only in 9 (20.0%), BTA + PPP in 11 (24.4%), BTA + CS in 5 (11.1%) and BTA + PPP + CS in 20 (44.4%). There was a significant correlation between increasing defect size and the need for 2 or more CVH closure procedures (χ² = 25.28, p < 0.0005). There were no BTA complications. Two patients developed midline hernia recurrences.

CONCLUSION

Pre-operative BTA injection of the abdominal wall is a safe procedure that facilitates hernia defect closure and reduces the need for CS, especially when defect size is less than 12 cm. BTA may also decrease the rate of hernia recurrence.

Effects of Botulinum Toxin A on an Incisional Hernia Reconstruction in a Rat Model

BACKGROUND

Although the effects of botulinum toxin A on hernia reconstruction have been consistently reported, few studies provide objective evidence. The authors aimed to compare the effects of chemical component separation with those of mechanical component separation, and with a combination of chemical and mechanical component separation, in a rat hernia model.

METHODS

Rats were divided into four groups: 1, control; 2, chemical component separation; 3, mechanical component separation; and 4, chemical and mechanical component separation. Four weeks after hernia induction, botulinum toxin A was injected into groups 2 and 4. Hernia repair was performed 2 weeks after chemical component separation when mechanical component separation was performed in groups 3 and 4. Pretreatment and posttreatment defect sizes, traction forces, intraabdominal pressure, and hernia recurrences were analyzed.

RESULTS

The defect size was significantly decreased in groups 2 and 4 after chemical component separation. The traction force was significantly smaller in groups 2 and 3 compared with the control group, and the effects of chemical and mechanical component separation were additive. The mean intraabdominal pressure was 16.83 mmHg in group 1, 10.67 mmHg in group 2, 10.17 mmHg in group 3, and 9.67 mmHg in group 4, thus showing significant reductions following chemical and mechanical component separation. Recurrence was observed in all six animals (100 percent) in groups 1 and 3, but in only one of six (17 percent) in groups 2 and 4.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative botulinum toxin A significantly reduces hernia size (by 30 percent) and the traction force required to medialize the rectus abdominis. After hernia repair, chemical component separation decreases the intraabdominal pressure to a similar degree as mechanical component separation, but only chemical component separation appears to reduce hernia recurrence.

Right Colectomy with Absorbable Mesh Repair as a Salvage Solution for the Management of Giant Incisional Hernia with Loss of Domain: Results of a Bicentric Study

BACKGROUND

Incisional hernia (IH) may occur in 20% of patients after laparotomy. The hernia sac volume may be of significance, with reintegration of visceral contents potentially leading to repair failure or abdominal compartment syndrome. The present study aimed to evaluate a two-step surgical strategy comprising right colectomy for hernia reduction with synchronous absorbable mesh repair followed by definitive non-absorbable mesh repair in recurrence.

METHODS

Patients operated between 2012 and 2017 at two university centers were retrospectively included. Volumetric evaluation of the IH was performed by CT imaging.

RESULTS

Eleven patients were included. The mean BMI was 43 kg/m² (23-52 kg/m²). Progressive preoperative pneumoperitoneum was performed in 82% of patients, with complications in 22%. The mean volumetric ratio of the volume of the hernia to the volume of the abdominal cavity was 70% (48-100%). The first parietal repair was performed using an synthetic absorbable mesh (36%), a biologic mesh (27%), or a slowly absorbable mesh (36%). No patients died as a result of the procedure. Seven (64%) patients developed grade III-IV complications, including one case of an anastomotic fistula. Recurrence occurred in eight (73%) patients after the first repair. Of these, four (50%) patients were reoperated using a non-absorbable mesh, leading to solid repair in 75% of cases. After 27 ± 18 months of follow-up, the residual IH rate was 46%.

CONCLUSIONS

Right colectomy for volume reduction in IH with loss of domain potentially represents an appropriate salvage option, supporting bowel reintegration and temporary hernia repair with absorbable material.

Image-guided botulinum toxin injection in the lateral abdominal wall prior to abdominal wall reconstruction surgery: review of techniques and results

Ventral hernias represent the most common complication after abdominal surgery. Loss of domain and/or large ventral hernias in patients are especially challenging for surgeons to manage, but preoperative image-guided botulinum toxin injection has emerged as an effective adjunct to abdominal wall surgery. Loss of domain is caused by chronic muscle retraction of the lateral abdominal wall and leads to an irreducible protrusion of abdominal viscera into the hernia sac. Botulinum toxin can be used in the oblique muscles as a chemical component relaxation technique to aid abdominal wall reconstruction. Intramuscular botulinum toxin injection causes functional denervation by blocking neurotransmitter acetylcholine release resulting in flaccid paralysis and elongation of lateral abdominal wall muscles, increasing the rate of fascial closure during abdominal wall reconstruction, and decreasing recurrence rates. In total, 200-300 units of onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox®) or 500 units of abobotulinumtoxinA (Dypsort®) in a 2:1 dilution with normal saline is most commonly used. Botulinum toxin can be injected with ultrasonographic, EMG, or CT guidance. Injection should be performed at least 2 weeks prior to abdominal wall reconstruction, for maximal effect during surgery. At minimum, botulinum toxin should be injected into the external and internal oblique muscles at three separate sites bilaterally for a total of six injections. Although botulinum toxin use for abdominal wall reconstruction is currently not indicated by the Food and Drug Administration, it is safe with only minor complications reported in literature.

The Effects of Preoperative Botulinum Toxin A Injection on Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Fascial closure significantly reduces postoperative complications and hernia recurrence after abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR), but can be challenging in massive ventral hernias.

METHODS

A prospective single-institution cohort study was performed to examine the effects of preoperative injection of botulinum toxin A (BTA) in patients undergoing AWR for midline or flank hernias.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients underwent BTA injection with average 243 units, mean 32.5 days before AWR, without complications. Comorbidities included diabetes (31%), history of smoking (27%), and obesity (mean body mass index 30.5 ± 7.7). Hernias were recurrent in 57%, massive (mean defect width 15.3 ± 5.5 cm; hernia sac volume 2154 ± 3251 cm³) and had significant loss of domain (mean 46% visceral volume outside abdominal cavity). Contamination was present in 38% of patients. Fascial closure was achieved in 91%, with 57% requiring component separation techniques (CSTs). Subxiphoidal hernias needed a form of CST in 88% compared with 50% for hernia not extending subxiphoidal (P < 0.001). Mesh augmentation was used in 98%. Postoperative complications occurred in 40%: 19% surgical site occurrences, 12% surgical site infections, and 7% respiratory failure requiring intubation, 2% mesh infection and no fascial dehiscence. Recurrence was identified in seven patients after mean 14 months of follow-up. Patients undergoing AWR with CST had more surgical site occurrences (29 versus 7%, p0.003) and respiratory failures (18 versus 0%, P = 0.002) than patients who did not require CST.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with massive ventral hernias, the use of preoperative BTA injections for AWR is safe and is associated with high fascial closure rates and excellent recurrence rates.

Botulinum toxin abdominal wall injection and post-omphalocele ventral hernia repair: database and proposal of a protocol

Background

Post-omphalocele ventral hernias (POVH) are common after giant omphaloceles. Abdominal wall botulinum toxin injections (BTI) are useful to treat complex incisional hernias (CIH) in adults, which may also apply to POVH. We review BTI data in the treatment of CIH and POVH and propose an algorithm applicable to POVH.

Results

Sixteen papers which described the treatment of CIH on the treatment of POVH in adults (n = 15) and children (n = 1) were reviewed. BTI elongates the lateral abdominal wall and reduces the hernia defect, with a lower incidence of compartment syndrome and respiratory complications. Doses and injection volumes vary. Effects start after 3 days, peak after 10–15 days, stabilize for 2–3 months, and decline after 4–6 months, disappearing after 6–9 months. Patients should be operated on 3–4 weeks after injection. Post-operative complications are uncommon. BTI may be associated with pre-operative pneumoperitoneum (PPP). Children presenting POVH differ from adults presenting CIH. Associated congenital cardiac malformations, genetically determined syndromes, pulmonary hypoplasia, abdominal wall hypoplasia, and thoracic dysmorphism, are common; children need sedation for any procedures; non-absorbable reinforcing meshes are not indicated; and POVH limits are frequently near to the costal margin.

Conclusion

BTI to induce preoperative muscular relaxation in preparation of CIH repair in adults is effective and safe. Experience with the method in children with POVH is limited, but the proposal is logical and probably safe. POVH differs from CIH in some aspects, especially abdominal wall hypoplasia, proximity to the rib cage, and diaphragmatic biomechanics.