Randomized clinical trial comparing suture and mesh repair of umbilical hernia in adults

Meshing around: high-risk hernias and infected mesh

Open laparotomy carries a risk up to 20% for an incisional hernia, making repair one of the most common operations performed by general surgeons in the USA. Despite a multitude of mesh appliances and techniques, no size fits all, and there is continued debate on what is the best mesh type, especially in high-risk patients with contaminated hernias. Infected mesh carries a significant burden to the patient, the surgeon and overall healthcare costs with medical legal implications. A stepwise approach that involves optimization of patient comorbidities, patient selective choice of mesh and technique is imperative in mitigating outcomes and recurrence rates. This review will focus on the avoidance of mesh infection and the selection of mesh in patients with contaminated wounds.

Primary Uncomplicated Ventral Hernia Repair: Guidelines and Practice Patterns for Routine Hernia Repairs

Surgical repair of primary umbilical and epigastric hernias are among the most common abdominal operations in the world. The hernia defects range from small (<1 cm) to large and complex even in the absence of prior incision or repair. Mesh has generally been shown to decrease recurrence rates, and its use and location of placement should be individualized for each patient. Open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches provide unique considerations for the technical aspects of primary repair with or without mesh augmentation.

Suture versus open mesh repair for small umbilical hernia: Results of a propensity-matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

The objective was to compare the outcomes of open mesh repair versus suture repair for small (≤1 cm in diameter) umbilical hernia. The primary endpoint was the 30-day outcomes including pain, and secondary endpoints were the 2-year outcomes including recurrences and patient-reported outcomes.

METHODS

This propensity-matched, multicenter study was carried out on data collected prospectively in the Hernia-Club database between 2011 and 2021. A total of 590 mesh repairs and 590 suture repairs were propensity score matched (age, sex, body mass index) at a ratio of 1:1. Postoperative pain was assessed using the Verbal Rating Scale-4 and 0‒10 Numerical Rating Scale-11.

RESULTS

Mesh insertion was intraperitoneal in 331 patients (56.1%), extraperitoneal in 249 (42.2%), and onlay in 10 (1.7%). The rate of 30-day complications and Numerical Rating Scale-11 pain scores on postoperative days 8 and 30 were similar between the groups, including surgical site occurrences (2.2 vs 1.4% after suture repair). At 1 month, postoperative discomfort (sensation of something different from before) was significantly (P < .0001) more frequent after mesh repair, whereas the rate of relevant (moderate or severe) pain (mesh repair: 1.1% vs suture repair: 2.6%) and the distribution of Numerical Rating Scale-11 scores did not differ between the groups. At the 2-year follow-up, mesh repair patients had fewer reoperated recurrences (0.2% vs 1.7%; P = .035) and no more pain or discomfort than suture repair patients.

CONCLUSION

Both techniques are effective and safe. Mesh repair is likely to reduce the rate of recurrences. Concerns about postoperative pain and infection might not prevent the use of mesh in smallest umbilical hernias.

Incarcerated Richter's congenital umbilical hernia in a young male: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Richter's hernia is a protrusion of a portion of the circumference of anti-mesenteric side of intestine through the fascial defect. It is a rare type of hernia and typically occurs in elderly patients. Richter's hernia could result in grave complications. The objective of the study was to describe a rare case of incarcerated Richter's congenital umbilical hernia in a 20-year-old male patient.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 20-year-old male presented with a complaint of intermittent crampy peri-umbilical pain of three days duration associated with non-reducible umbilical bulge and vomiting. On examination, there was 4 cm by 4 cm oval, firm, tender, non-reducible mass over the umbilical area without cough impulse. He was kept nothing per os, broad spectrum antibiotic started, consent taken & operated. A loop of the ilium which was mildly ischemic found in the hernia sac. Sac and entrapped intestine were thoroughly cleaned with warm saline and reduction and herniorrhaphy done. The client discharged on the 2nd postoperative day.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

There have been very few reports of Richter's congenital umbilical hernia. Richter's hernia progresses more rapidly to gangrene than other strangulated hernias however patients often have no intestinal obstruction. Raised suspicion therefore is important to take timely surgical intervention before the disease advance and complications occurred.

CONCLUSION

Richter's hernia has subclinical symptoms and late presentation which could result in grave complications and increased mortality. The early decision for surgery has paramount importance in reducing complication and associated mortality.

Novel Approach for Umbilical Hernia Repair Using Mesh Strips

Umbilical hernia repair is a common surgical procedure without a universally accepted means of repair. We introduce a novel surgical technique for open primary umbilical hernia repair, using strips of polypropylene mesh as sutures to achieve a repair.

Methods

Two-centimeter-wide strips of macroporous polypropylene mesh were passed through the abdominal wall and tied as simple interrupted sutures to achieve umbilical hernia repair. A retrospective review of all elective umbilical hernia repairs performed by a single surgeon using the mesh strip technique between 2016 and 2021 was conducted, and patient-reported outcomes were assessed via a telephonic survey.

Results

Thirty-three patients underwent an elective, open mesh strip repair of a primary umbilical hernia and met criteria for inclusion in the study. Of these patients, 60% responded to a patient-reported outcomes telephone survey. Ninety percent of survey responders reported a pain score of 0 of 10. Additionally, 90% reported being unable to feel or palpate the knot, and 80% reported an improvement in quality of life. Mean follow-up at 3 years revealed one recurrence in the setting of ascites, yielding a recurrence rate of 3%.

Conclusion

Primary mesh strip repair of umbilical hernias combines the simplicity of suture repair with the advantageous force distribution properties of mesh, and constitutes a safe, efficient, and effective method of repair with a low recurrence rate at long-term follow-up that is comparable to planar mesh repair.

Hospital-level variation in mesh use for ventral and incisional hernia repair

BACKGROUND

Placement of prosthetic mesh during ventral and incisional hernia repair has been shown to reduce the incidence of postoperative hernia recurrence. Consequently, multiple consensus guidelines recommend the use of mesh for ventral hernias of any size. However, the extent to which real-world practice patterns reflect these recommendations is unclear.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative Hernia Registry (MSQC-HR) to identify patients undergoing clean ventral or incisional hernia repair between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021. The primary outcome was mesh use. We used two-step hierarchical logistic regression modeling with empirical Bayes estimates to evaluate the association of hospital-level mesh use with patient, operative, and hernia characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 5262 patients underwent ventral and incisional hernia repair at 65 hospitals with a mean age of 53.8 (14.5) years, 2292 (43.6%) females, and a mean hernia width of 3.2 (3.4) cm. Mean hospital volume was 81 (49) cases. Mesh was used in 4098 (77.9%) patients. At the patient level, hernia width and surgical approach were significantly associated with mesh use. Specifically, mesh use was 6.2% (95% CI 4.8-7.5%) more likely with each additional centimeter of hernia width and 28.0% (95% CI 26.1-29.8%) more likely for minimally invasive repair compared to open repair. At the hospital level, there was wide variation in mesh use, ranging from 38.0% (95% CI 31.5-44.9%) to 96.4% (95% CI 95.3-97.2%). Hospital-level mesh use was not associated with differences in hernia size (β =  - 0.003, P = 0.978), surgical approach (β =  - 1.109, P = 0.414), or any other patient factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite strong evidence supporting the use of mesh in ventral and incisional hernia repair, there is substantial variation in mesh use between hospitals that is not explained by differences in patient characteristics or operative approach. This suggests that opportunities exist to standardize surgical practice to better align with evidence supporting the use of mesh in the management of these hernias.

Open versus laparoscopic intraperitoneal on-lay mesh repair: A comparison of outcomes in small ventral hernia

PURPOSE

The ideal surgical treatment of small ventral hernias (defect less than 4 cm) is still debatable. In our study, we sought to compare the outcomes of open versus laparoscopic intraperitoneal on-lay mesh (IPOM) repair in small ventral hernias.

METHODS

Patients with a single ventral hernia defect of less than 4 cm undergoing surgical mesh repair between January 2016 and September 2018 were prospectively registered for this study. The minimum follow-up duration was 12 months. Patient demographics, operative findings and regular post-operative follow-up details including recurrence rates and complications were recorded and analysed.

RESULTS

41 patients underwent laparoscopic IPOM repair and 47 patients underwent open IPOM repair. The mean age for both groups is similar with no significant difference. The mean hernia defect size for the laparoscopic group is 2.8 cm (±0.8) whereas the mean hernia defect size for the open repair group is 2.1 cm (±0.4). The mean surgery duration for open IPOM repair was significantly shorter (59 min (±17) vs 74 min (±26); p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the incidence of seroma formation and surgical site infections post-operatively. There was also no significant difference in both groups in terms of chronic pain and recurrence at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Open IPOM repair for small ventral hernias may be superior to laparoscopic IPOM repair due to the shorter operative duration, single incision, and no additional risk of port-site hernias. There was no difference in chronic pain, wound infection and recurrence rate between the two groups.

Onlay mesh repair for treatment of small umbilical hernias ≤ 2 cm in adults: a single-centre investigation

PURPOSE

Previous studies on the repair of small umbilical hernias have suggested a lower recurrence rate with mesh compared to suture repair. An important question is in what anatomical position the mesh should be placed. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome of using a standardized 4 × 4 cm onlay-mesh for umbilical hernias ≤ 2 cm.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted at a single centre in Sweden on all umbilical hernia repairs during 2015-2019. The follow-up time was at least four months. Patients were identified using the hospital medical database. Repairs performed with suture or a sublay, ventral patch and laparoscopic mesh positioning were excluded. The patient's demographics, comorbidities, intra-and post-operative details were considered. The primary outcome was surgical site complications within 30 days. The secondary outcome was a recurrence.

RESULTS

80 patients were repaired with a small onlay-mesh for an umbilical hernia ≤ 2 cm. The median (range) follow-up time was 29.0 (4.3-50.1) months. The median age was 46 (26-76) years old. The median body mass index was 28 (19-38) kg/m2. The male to female ratio was 2:1. 4 patients were identified with a surgical site post-operative complication; three with seromas and one with a superficial wound infection. 3 of these were given antibiotics. 2 patients were treated with wound openings bedside. There were no registered cases of recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Repairing small umbilical hernias with a small onlay-mesh was safe with a low surgical site complication rate. Randomized trials are needed to assess whether mesh can reduce recurrences in umbilical hernia repairs ≤ 2 cm.

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.

Are Surgeons of the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative Following Guidelines in Umbilical and Epigastric Hernia Repair?

BACKGROUND

Umbilical and epigastric hernias are among the top three most common hernia surgeries performed in the USA with varied techniques. The European and Americas Hernia Societies (EAHS) recently published guidelines for repair of umbilical and epigastric hernias. We evaluated how closely the general surgeons of the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative (ACHQC) follow these guidelines and to identify areas for possible improvement.

METHOD

Data from patients undergoing elective and emergent umbilical or epigastric hernia repair from 2013 to 2021 were extracted from the ACHQC database. The procedures performed on eligible subjects were compared to those proposed by the EAHS guidelines. Data was reported as a percentage and a cutoff of 70% was selected to determine compliance.

RESULTS

Based on these criteria, 11,088 patients were included and most of the recommendations, including appropriate preoperative antibiotic dosing (96.1% umbilical; 97.2% epigastric), permanent mesh selection (umbilical 97.8%; 96.1 epigastric), mesh fixation with suture (83.6% umbilical; 75.5% epigastric), use of mesh for open repair of hernias greater than 1 cm (83.6 umbilical; 85.7 epigastric), and primary defect closure during open (98.6% umbilical; 97.5% epigastric) and laparoscopic (99.6% umbilical; 100% epigastric) repair, were met.

DISCUSSION

Surgeons of the ACHQC adhere to most of the published guidelines on umbilical and epigastric hernia repair. Further research is needed to reinforce or modify the existing recommendations. Standardization of surgical approach will facilitate additional research needed to improve procedural efficiency, while reducing negative outcomes and cost.

Topical use of hyperoxygenated fatty acids decreases surgical site infection in patients following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

To date, the topically effect of hyperoxygenated fatty acids (HOFA) on the control of surgical site infection (SSI) is still unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of topical application of a HOFA solution on the umbilical trocar site after laparoscopic cholecystectomy on SSI. The occurrence of trocar site incisional hernia (TSIH) was also analyzed.

METHODS

A prospective, double-blind, randomized trial was conducted in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, who also presented at least one of the following associated risk factors for SSI and TSIH such as Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30 kg/m², Diabetes Mellitus (DM), age over 65 years and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Patients were randomly allocated to topical application of a HOFA solution (HOFA arm) or saline physiological solution (non-HOFA arm) during closure of the umbilical trocar site with a polypropylene mesh. SSI was the primary outcome. TSIH was also assessed as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

103 patients were included, 51 (49.5%) in the HOFA group and 52 (50.5%) in the non-HOFA group. SSI rate was significantly lower in the HOFA group in comparison with the non-HOFA group (19.6% vs. 3.8%; p = 0.028). TSIH rates were similar in both groups (3.8% vs. 2%). Multivariate analyses showed that only HOFA decreased significantly SSI rate.

CONCLUSION

Topical application of a HOFA solution at the umbilical trocar site after laparoscopy cholecystectomy decreased SSI rate.

Feasibility of Umbilical Hernia Repair Under Local Anesthesia and Monitored Anesthesia Care at a Veteran Affairs Hospital

BACKGROUND

Local anesthesia (LA) for open umbilical hernia tissue repair (OUHTR) is not widely utilized in academic centers in the United States. We hypothesize that LA for OUHTR is feasible in a veteran patient population.

METHODS

From 2015 to 2019, 449 umbilical hernias were repaired at our institution utilizing a standardized technique in veteran patients. OUHTR was included in this analysis (n = 283). Since 2017, 18.7% (n = 53) UH were repaired under LA. We compared outcomes and operative times between general anesthesia and LA in patients undergoing OUHTR. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to determine significance.

RESULTS

The entire cohort was composed of older (56.3 ± 12.1 years), White (75.5%), obese (body mass index [BMI] = 32.3 ± 4.6 kg/m²) men (98.0%). The average hernia size for the entire cohort was 2.42 ± 1.2 cm. The groups were similar in age and BMI. Patients with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) (Odds ratio [OR] 3.1; 95% CI 1.5-6.8) and cardiovascular disease (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.0-7.2) were more likely to receive LA. Recurrence (0.0% vs 6.0%; P = .9) and 30-day complications (6.0% vs 13%; P = .9) were similar between LA and GA after correcting for hernia size. Operating room times were reduced in the LA group (17.7 minutes; P < .05). None of the patients with LA required postanesthesia care unit for recovery. The patients who received LA reported being comfortable (78.9% of patients), with the worst reported pain being 2.4 ± 2.4 (out of a scale of 10), and 94.7% would elect to receive LA if they had another hernia repair.

CONCLUSION

Patients who received LA had more cardiac disease and a higher ASA. Complications were similar between both groups. LA reduced operating room times. Patients were satisfied with LA.

Association between surgical hernia repair techniques and the incidence of seroma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

Ventral hernia repair (VHR) includes the surgical reconstruction of the abdominal wall (AW) using different surgical techniques. Although such procedures are usually devoid of complications, the formation of seroma may frequently occur. We performed a systematic review to assess the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing VHR techniques and their impact on seroma formation.

METHODS

We included RCTs having seroma formation as primary endpoint. We included patients of both sexes (age > 18). For data synthesis we applied a random-effects model and calculated risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Risk of bias (ROB) and publication bias were evaluated following Cochrane recommendations.

RESULTS

After database search and article screening, 21 records were included in this review. Ten RCTs compared onlay vs. sublay mesh placement techniques. Pooled analysis showed a significantly higher risk ratio for seroma in the onlay cohort (RR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.86-3.66, I² = 0, GRADE quality of evidence, moderate). Five RCTs compared laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair vs. open mesh placement. Pooled analysis showed that seroma formation did not differ significantly between groups (RR = 1.91, 95% CI 0.69-5.28, I² = 66%, GRADE quality of evidence, poor). High ROB was found in all studies and significant publication bias was detected in both meta-analyses.

CONCLUSION

Compared to sublay ventral hernia repair, the onlay procedure is associated with a significantly higher risk of seroma. No significant differences were observed when laparoscopic VHR was compared with the open surgical procedure. Due to the diversity of surgical techniques reported in included RCTs, it is currently not possible to draw conclusive clinical recommendations. Future studies should be standardized to provide detailed data allowing thorough evaluation of the impact of the evidence on clinical practice.

Corset Autodermis External Obliqueplasty Reinforcement of Rectus Diastasis and Umbilical Hernia Repairs during Abdominoplasty

SUMMARY

Abdominoplasty is among the most commonly performed aesthetic operations and is frequently combined with rectus abdominis musculoaponeurotic plication of rectus diastasis and repair of umbilical and ventral hernias. The authors present a spare parts technique to assist in reinforcement of both rectus diastasis plication and hernia repair during abdominoplasty operations using an autodermis onlay reinforcement graft. The graft is harvested from the excess abdominal pannus normally discarded during abdominoplasty and is inset on tension between the bilateral semilunar lines and plicated along a concave "corset" contour. This reduces distracting forces on the hernia and diastasis repairs and further augments abdominal contour. This technique has been performed for 8 years on 82 low-surgical-risk patients, without any noted increase in complications. The corset autodermis external obliqueplasty is a spare parts technique that may reduce recurrence of rectus diastasis and abdominal hernias repaired at the time of abdominoplasty and is an alternative strategy to mesh placement in this risk-averse aesthetic surgery population.

Management of epigastric, umbilical, spigelian and small incisional hernia as a day case procedure: results of long-term follow-up after open preperitoneal flat mesh technique

PURPOSE

To investigate short and long-term outcome after the open preperitoneal flat mesh technique (OPFMT) for umbilical, epigastric, spigelian, small incisional and "port-site" hernia performed as a day case procedure.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed records of patients who underwent OPFMT for umbilical, epigastric, Spigelian, small incisional and "port-site" hernia in ambulatory settings between 2004 and 2020 at Clinical Center of Serbia. Demographic and clinical characteristics, operative data and postoperative complications were compared between the groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for mesh infection and recurrence.

RESULTS

Overall, 476 patients were divided according to the type of hernia. Early postoperative complications were similar in all study groups. Mesh infection, chronic pain and recurrence were different between groups (p = 0.013, p = 0.019 and p = 0.011, respectively). Overall recurrence rate after OPFMT was 2.5%. Hernia defect, hematoma and length of postoperative stay at the Day Surgery Unit were identified as potential predictors of mesh infection (Odds ratio 6.449, 22.143 and 1.546, respectively; p = 0.027, p = 0.011 and p = 0.038, respectively) while mesh infection was the only potential predictor of recurrence in univariate analysis. Hematoma was an independent predictor of recurrence (Odds ratio 27.068; 95% Confidence interval 2.355-311.073; p = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

The OPFMT performed under local anesthesia as a day case procedure is a safe technique associated with favorable long-term outcome. Hematoma is an independent predictor of mesh infection occurrence.

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

Background

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

Methods

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

Discussion

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

Trial registration

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

Mesh in Elective Hernia Repair: 10-Year Experience with over 6,000 Patients

BACKGROUND

The use of mesh in hernia repair has faced intense scrutiny, leading patients to become fearful of its use, despite its benefits in reducing hernia recurrence. We report a single institutional experience in performing hernia repair with mesh in terms of hernia-specific outcomes, mesh-related complications, and patient-reported quality of life.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients who underwent abdominal wall hernia repair with mesh at a single institution were identified from a prospectively maintained quality database. Demographic, perioperative, and postoperative outcomes data were analyzed. Surgical Outcomes Measurements System (SOMS) and Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS) surveys were administered pre- and postoperatively at 3 weeks, 6 months, 1, 2, and 5 years.

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2020, a total of 6,387 patients underwent abdominal hernia repair with mesh. Inguinal hernia repairs made up the majority (65%) of the operations. Rates of mesh infection varied by hernia type, with lower rates after umbilical (0.0%) and inguinal (0.4%) repair, and highest after incisional repair (1.3%). Similarly, mesh explantation rates were low after umbilical and inguinal repair (0.0% and 0.4%, respectively) and highest after incisional repair (3.0%). Scores on all SOMS domains were significantly improved from baseline (all p < 0.05). On CCS, 2.9%, 3.3%, and 4.4% of patients reported severe or disabling symptoms postoperatively at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of mesh-related complications vary by hernia type. A majority of patients report excellent long-term quality of life, although a relatively large percentage of patients experience severe or disabling symptoms at long-term follow-up.

Umbilical Hernia Repair in Cirrhotic Patients With Ascites: A Systemic Review of Literature

BACKGROUND

Umbilical hernia is a common abdominal complication in cirrhotic patients. The incidence of umbilical hernias can be up to 20% in the presence of ascites. However, there is no consensus regarding the optimal management of umbilical hernias in cirrhotic patients. The purpose of this study is to review the management of umbilical hernias in cirrhotic patients with ascites.

METHODS

A search of the available literature in English since 1980 was performed using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and a search of relevant journals and reference lists. The search terms included "umbilical hernia," "ascites," "cirrhosis," and any derivatives of these terms, and the literature search identified all the relevant publications.

RESULTS

Thirty-three relevant articles published in the language of English were identified. Fourteen studies involved the management of refractory ascites in cirrhotic patients. Twenty-four studies included cirrhotic patients receiving elective or emergency surgery. Because of much lower morbidity and mortality in elective surgery than in emergency surgery, many authors advocated early elective repair of uncomplicated umbilical hernias in cirrhotic patients. Of these, 2 studies described laparoscopic umbilical hernioplasty, with a significant lower morbidity and hernia recurrence than open repair. Fifteen studies described the use of prosthetic mesh umbilical hernia repair in cirrhotic patients, which was associated with minimal wound-related morbidity and markedly lower recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that early elective repair of uncomplicated umbilical hernias is recommended in cirrhotic patients with tolerable hepatic functional reserve or when the expected time for liver transplantation is >3 months. Umbilical hernias are supposed to be corrected in the process of liver transplantation, provided that patients could have a better prospect to be transplanted within 3 months. Control of ascites is a crucial part to successful outcomes of umbilical hernia repair. Large volume paracentesis, concomitant peritoneovenous shunting with herniorrhaphy and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting can be applied to control refractory ascites. Emergency repair of umbilical hernias is indicated in cirrhotic patients with ascites when complications develop.

Hernia Size and Mesh Placement in Primary Umbilical Hernia Repair

INTRODUCTION

Umbilical hernia repair (UHR) using mesh has been demonstrated to significantly reduce recurrence. However, many surgical centers still perform tissue repair for UH. In the present study, we assessed a cohort of veteran patients undergoing a standard open tissue repair for primary UH to determine at which size recurrence may preclude tissue repair. A systematic review of the literature on hernia size recommendations to guide mesh placement was performed.

METHODS

A single-institution single-surgeon retrospective review of all patients undergoing open tissue repair of primary UH (n = 344) was undertaken at the VA North Texas Health Care System between 2005 and 2019. Guidelines for the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis were undertaken for systematic review.

RESULTS

A literature review yielded inconsistent guidance for a specific hernia size to proceed with tissue vs. mesh repair. Our institutional review yielded 17 (4.9%) recurrences. Univariable analysis demonstrated recurrence to be associated with hernia size (2.8 vs. 2.3 cm; P = .04). However, on multivariable analysis, hernia size was demonstrated as not an independent predictor of recurrence [OR 1.47 (95% CI; .97-2.21; P = .07)].

CONCLUSION

A review of the literature suggests mesh placement most commonly when the hernia size is > 2.0 cm; however, sources of evidence are heterogeneous in study design, patient population, and hernia types studied. Our institutional review demonstrated that primary UHs < 2.3 cm can successfully be treated via tissue repair. Larger, recurrent, incisional, and primary epigastric hernias may benefit from mesh placement.

Chinese expert consensus on adult ventral abdominal wall defect repair and reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of patients with ventral abdominal wall defects, especially complex abdominal wall defects, remains a challenging problem for abdominal wall reconstructive surgeons. Effective surgical treatment requires appropriate preoperative assessment, surgical planning, and correct operative procedure in order to improve postoperative clinical outcomes and minimize complications. Although substantial advances have been made in surgical techniques and prosthetic technologies, there is still insufficient high-level evidence favoring a specific technique. Broad variability in existing practice patterns, including clinical pre-operative evaluation, surgical techniques and surgical procedure selection, are still common.

DATA SOURCES

With the purpose of providing a best practice algorithm, a comprehensive search was conducted in Medline and PubMed. Sixty-four surgeons considered as experts on abdominal wall defect repair and reconstruction in China were solicited to develop a Chinese consensus and give recommendations to help surgeons standardize their techniques and improve clinical results.

CONCLUSIONS

This consensus serves as a starting point to provide recommendations for adult ventral abdominal wall repair and reconstruction in China and may help build opportunities for international cooperation to refine AWR practice.

Risk Factors Associated With Adverse Outcomes After Ventral Hernia Repair With Component Separation

BACKGROUND

Over 350,000 surgeries are performed for ventral hernias (VHs) annually. Abdominal wall component separation has been more frequently used for the management of VHs. The goal of this study is to better understand factors associated with component separation complication rates.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample (2005-2014) was used to identify all patients with an International Classification of Diseases ninth Revision diagnosis of VHs who underwent open VH repair with a pedicleor graft advancement flap. All cases included in this study were elective and not associated with additional procedures. Demographic, clinical, and hospital characteristics were extracted. Independent predictors of complications and outcomes were determined by multivariable regression analysis.

RESULTS

Component separation was performed in 4346 patients. Mean age was 56; majority were female (55%) and white (80%). Most patients (73%) underwent surgery in an urban teaching hospital; mesh was used in 80% of cases and 11% were smokers. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (50%), followed by obesity (26%), diabetes mellitus (DM) (23%), coronary artery disease (11%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (8%). Half of the patients (50%) had private insurance, and 35% had Medicare. Patients were distributed equally over household income quartiles. The mortality rate was 0.5%; median length of stay was 5 d. Overall complication rate was 25% (wound 11%, intraoperative 5%, infectious 11%, and pulmonary 8%). Mesh was associated with a lower rate of wound complications (10% versus 15%, P = 0.001). On multivariable analysis, patients with COPD (odds ratio: 2.02; 95% confidence interval: 1.58-2.59), obesity (1.37; 1.16-1.63), DM (1.3; 1.09-1.55), and those in the lowest income quartile (1.44; 1.06-1.96) had higher overall complication rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with other studies, patients with COPD, Obesity, DM, and lower income status were associated with increased complications after component separation.

Trocar umbilical hernia repair by open suture repair and open suture-mesh repair in an ambulatory setting in comparison to recurrent and primary umbilical hernia repair

Reports on the ambulatory open repair of umbilical trocal hernias are missing. Patients with trocar, primary and recurrent umbilical hernia open suture and open suture–mesh repair with prospective follow-up were retrospectively evaluated. Patients received perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis, preemptive analgesia and modified anesthesia. In total, 171 patients with umbilical hernia (51 years, female 14%; male 86%) were treated with open suture (n = 29; 17%) and suture–mesh (n = 142; 83%) repair. In total, 10% of patients were treated for trocar hernia (late onset), 5% for recurrent hernia and 85% for a primary umbilical hernia. In total, 29% of trocar hernia repairs had minor complications associated with obesity (40%) and comorbidity (80%). Age, suture and suture–mesh repair were not associated with complications. According to guidelines for umbilical hernia repair open flat mesh may be useful in the treatment of trocar hernia.

Outcomes of Laparoscopic-Assisted, Open Umbilical Hernia Repair

Umbilical hernia repair (UHR) is one of the most commonly performed hernia operations with reported recurrence rate from 1% to 54%. Our aim was to describe an open, laparoscopic-assisted (OLA) technique and its outcome in an institutional review board-approved prospective study at a tertiary hernia center from 2008 to 2019. All patients underwent a standard periumbilical incision, open dissection of the hernia, and closure of the fascial defect with laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) fixation with permanent tacks. A total of 186 patients were identified who underwent an OLA UHR repair. Patient characteristics are as follows: average age 52.8 ± 12.5 years, male gender 79.6%, body mass index 31.4 ± 8.0 kg/m², and average hernia defect size of 2.8 ± 4.8 cm². Forty-one (22.0%) patients had previous failed repair. Sixty-nine (37.1%) patients had another procedure performed at the time of the UHR, most commonly a laparoscopic transabdominal inguinal hernia repair (58%). The mean operative time was 87.3 ± 51.2 minutes, but only 63.9 ± 31.9 minutes for patients undergoing an OLA repair. There were no recurrences (0%) on abdominal physical or radiographic examination with an average follow-up of 16.5 ± 17.7 months. Postoperative complications included wound erythema (2.7%), hematomas (1.1%), seromas (2.7%), and 4.3% received postoperative oral antibiotics. One person was readmitted for seroma drainage, and another required reoperation for small bowel obstruction unrelated to the hernia repair. One patient had chronic pain requiring tack removal. With moderate follow-up, an OLA UHR with mesh appears to be a durable repair with favorable results, including those patients with recurrent hernias.

Intraperitoneal Tension-free Repair of a Small Midline Ventral Abdominal Wall Hernia: Randomized Study with a Mean Follow-up of 3 Years

Funding received from Cousin Biotech, Wervicq Sud, France, and CR Bard Inc., Cranston, RI. The aim of this prospective randomized study was to determine the long-term recurrence and complication rates after small abdominal wall hernia repair with two different bilayer prostheses. Hernia repair using prosthetic mesh material has become the preferred method of repair, because the recurrence rates are much lower than with conventional repair techniques. The use of a hernia bilayer patch, composite expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE)-polypropylene, with intraperitoneal placement behind the hernia defect, through a small incision, may be efficient, safe, and cost-effective. This study is a randomized, single-institution trial, including 83 selected consecutive patients with primary (umbilical, epigastric) or incisional anterior abdominal wall defects from 2 to 5 cm. Hernia repair was performed by direct local access in ambulatory surgery; the prosthesis used was a circular bilayer with an inner face in ePTFE to avoid bowel adhesion. One group was treated with a Ventralex® Hernia Patch (Bard USA). The second group was treated with a Cabs'Air® Composite (Cousin Biotech France), which was delivered with two to four fixation sutures and a balloon to properly deploy the mesh intraperitoneally. Patients’ characteristics and operative and postoperative data were prospectively collected. The primary outcome was late recurrence. Secondary outcomes included, pain, discomfort and quality of life before and after (3 months) surgery using the SF-12 questionnaire, patient-surgeon satisfaction, and early and late complications. Among 98 patients, 83 were included in the study protocol between January 2007 and August 2011. The two groups were comparable according to pre- and intraoperative data. According to surgeon experience, placement of the Cabs'Air® device was significantly faster ( P = 0.01) and easier. At 3 months, there was significantly less pain and less discomfort for the Cabs'Air® group and patient satisfaction rate was higher. This was confirmed by all components of the SF-12 questionnaire. Long-term follow-up was available for 77 patients. The mean follow-up was similar for the two groups (42 months; range, 14 to 70 months). At this point, for the Ventralex® group, there were four recurrences (11.7%); one mesh infection; one small bowel obstruction; and six cases (15.7%) of severe pain resulting from a mass syndrome (shrinkage) with a sense of the presence of a foreign body. Six reoperations (15.6%) were required with explant of the prosthesis. There were no recurrences or late complications in the comparative group. The Ventralex® Hernia Patch is associated with inconsistent deployment, spreading, or shrinkage, which account for late complications and decreases the overlap, which contributes to the recurrence rate. The Cabs'Air®-associated balloon facilitates superior deployment of the prosthesis allowing for good fixation with four sutures.

Primary Umbilical Hernia Repair: A Large-Volume Single-Surgeon Study

There are conflicting views regarding techniques for repair of small umbilical hernias (UHs). Here, we compare the recurrence rate in primary repair with that reported for mesh repair by examining a single surgeon's practice at a large medical center with a comprehensive electronic medical record. A six-year retrospective review of primary UH repairs between January 2012 and December 2017 at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center was undertaken. Patients were identified through a database search of the electronic medical record. The primary endpoint of UH recurrence was examined; median follow-up was 3.4 years. Primary, elective UH repair was performed in 244 patients; 71 per cent of hernias were small (<2 cm). The total number of recurrences was seven (3%). The t test analysis showed significant differences in the average size of hernia defects between those with recurrences (2 cm) and those without (1.4 cm), P < 0.05. Primary repair affords low infection and recurrence rates, comparable to those reported for mesh repair. Our single-surgeon/large-volume study contributes to the evidence that primary UH repair is a safe and durable method, with low risk of recurrence. The use of absorbable monofilament suture, and selection for lower BMI and smaller hernia sizes proved to be effective.

Early outcomes of emergency ventral hernia repair in a cohort of poorly optimized patients

BACKGROUND

Strangulated and obstructed ventral hernias require emergent repair to mitigate the risk of life-threatening complications. Emergency ventral hernia repairs are associated with a higher rate of surgical complications and recurrence compared to elective repairs. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of patient factors, hernia and operative characteristics on post-operative outcomes in patients requiring emergency ventral hernia repairs.

METHODS

Data were collected from a prospectively held database on 86 consecutive patients undergoing emergency ventral hernia repairs between January 2016 and January 2019 at Logan Hospital. Patient, hernia and operative characteristics were collected for reporting and analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 86 patients, 29 (34%) developed a surgical complication, of which 17 patients (59%) had surgical site infections. We identified obesity (P = 0.017), history of smoking (P = 0.008), American Society of Anesthesiologists class of III-IV (P = 0.008), hernia defect size ≥3 cm (P = 0.048) and concomitant small bowel resection (P = 0.028) to be associated with post-operative surgical complication. Multivariate analysis identified smoking (P = 0.005) and concomitant small bowel resection (P = 0.026) as independent predictors for developing surgical complications. Seven patients (8%) recurred at a median of 221 days. Incisional hernias (P = 0.001), recurrent hernias (P < 0.001), greater than one defect (P < 0.001) and bowel involvement (P = 0.049) were associated with higher rates of hernia recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Patient factors significantly influence outcomes in the emergency setting. Given that this is not modifiable at the time of surgery, greater emphasis needs to be placed on optimizing the physical and behavioural factors of patients with early symptomatic hernias for an elective repair.

Intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair (IPOM) plus technique using a hybrid procedure of open laparotomy and laparoscopic approach (hybrid IPOM plus) for incarceration of umbilical hernia in a severely obese patient: a case report

Background

A standard procedure for the treatment of incarcerated umbilical hernia among severely obese patients has yet to be established. We used the hybrid intraperitoneal onlay mesh repair (IPOM) plus method, which combines open and laparoscopic surgery to treat incarcerated umbilical hernia in a severely obese patient.

Case presentation

A 46-year-old man presented in our department with a chief complaint of a painful mass in the umbilical region. Incarcerated umbilical hernia was diagnosed on the basis of abdominal computed tomography, and the decision was made to perform emergency surgery. The patient was severely obese (body mass index, 53.8 kg/m²), and the incarcerated portion of the hernia was therefore first addressed by open surgery. As bowel resection was unnecessary, the risk of infection was considered low, and after direct closure of the hernia orifice, IPOM was performed laparoscopically using the hybrid IPOM plus method.

Conclusion

Among severely obese patients, first trocar insertion is difficult and the wound site tends to come under strain, meaning that simple closure of the hernia orifice results in a high recurrence rate. The hybrid IPOM plus method used in this case combines open surgery and laparoscopy and appears useful for treating uninfected incarcerated umbilical hernia in severely obese patients safely and with an anticipated low rate of postoperative recurrence.

Mesh versus suture in elective repair of umbilical hernia: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Mesh repair of umbilical hernia has been associated with a reduced recurrence rate compared with suture closure, but potentially at the expense of increased postoperative complications and chronic pain. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the outcomes after elective open mesh and suture repair for umbilical hernia in adults.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted to identify studies presenting original data on elective open mesh and suture repair of umbilical hernia. The primary outcome was hernia recurrence. Secondary outcomes included surgical-site infection (SSI), seroma, haematoma and chronic pain. Meta-analyses were undertaken.

RESULTS

The search resulted in 5353 hits and led to 14 studies being included (6 RCTs and 8 observational studies) describing a total of 2361 patients. Compared with suture, mesh repair was associated with a lower risk of recurrence (risk ratio (RR) 0·48, 95 per cent c.i. 0·30 to 0·77), with number needed to treat 19 (95 per cent c.i. 14 to 31). Mesh repair was associated with a higher risk of seroma (RR 2·37, 1·45 to 3·87), with number needed to harm 30 (17 to 86). There was no significant difference in the risk of SSI, haematoma or chronic pain.

CONCLUSION

The use of mesh in elective repair of umbilical hernia reduced the risk of recurrence compared with suture closure without altering the risk of chronic pain.

Is mesh always necessary in every small umbilical hernia repair? Comparison of standardized primary sutured versus patch repair: retrospective cohort study

Purpose

A retrospective analysis was carried out to compare the results of patch repair using ready-made, synthetic mesh (PR) and sutured repair (SR) based on standard protocols. The accumulated recurrence rate was accepted as the primary outcome. Pain at rest and during exercise, cosmetic effect and treatment satisfaction were chosen as the secondary endpoints.

Methods

Adult patients after elective, open surgical repair of a single, primary umbilical hernia < 2 cm in diameter were included. Patients with incarceration or strangulation, after previous umbilical hernia repair or other abdominal surgical interventions were excluded. In the SR group, single-layer sutures were placed using the short-stitch technique. In PR group, a 6.3-mm ready-made Parietene Ventral Patch (Medtronic) was used.

Results

161 patients (104 in PR and 57 in SR groups) were included in the study (22 months follow-up). Nine recurrences were observed [six in PR (5.8%) and three in SR group (5.2%)]. In PR group, three patients (2.9%) reported complaints at rest and none in SR group, while 18 patients (17.3%) in PR group reported pain during exercises and 7 (12.3%) in SR group.

Conclusion

For the smallest umbilical hernias, the use of dense fascia suturing (short-stitch technique) may be an effective alternative to patch repair techniques in patients with no additional risk factors for recurrence. The mesh patch repair method is associated with a significantly higher risk of postsurgical pain. Diastasis recti is a factor favoring umbilical hernia recurrence after both pure tissue repair and patch repair.

Short-term outcome after ventral hernia repair using self-gripping mesh in sublay technique - A retrospective cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Hernia repair in sublay technique is widely accepted for ventral hernias, as it appears to be advantageous in terms of complication and recurrence rates. Self-gripping meshes are increasingly used for hernia repair with retromuscular mesh positioning. However, real-life data on the safe use in that specific indication are still lacking. The purpose of this study is the evaluation of short-term postoperative outcome of self-gripping versus conventional non-self-gripping meshes in sublay hernia repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective analysis assessed patients undergoing ventral hernia repair in sublay technique between January 2011 and July 2018 at the Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna. 244 consecutive patients were eligible for final analysis. Patients were grouped according to the utilized mesh. Baseline characteristics and peri-as well as postoperative outcome was assessed.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Median follow-up was 11 months (IQR 3-30). The overall complication rate (28.3% versus 13.7%, p = 0.005) due to an increased rate of seromas (17.3% versus 6.8%, p = 0.013) and surgical site infections (12.6% versus 4.3%, p = 0.021) was significantly higher in patients with a self-gripping mesh. Significantly more patients with a self-gripping mesh needed a surgical intervention (21.3% versus 9.4%, p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

In sublay ventral hernia repair, the use of self-gripping meshes is associated with a higher overall complication rate and an increased rate of complication-associated surgical interventions when compared to non-self-gripping mesh placements.

Guidelines for treatment of umbilical and epigastric hernias from the European Hernia Society and Americas Hernia Society

BACKGROUND

Umbilical and epigastric hernia repairs are frequently performed surgical procedures with an expected low complication rate. Nevertheless, the optimal method of repair with best short- and long-term outcomes remains debatable. The aim was to develop guidelines for the treatment of umbilical and epigastric hernias.

METHODS

The guideline group consisted of surgeons from Europe and North America including members from the European Hernia Society and the Americas Hernia Society. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) critical appraisal checklists, and the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) instrument were used. A systematic literature search was done on 1 May 2018, and updated on 1 February 2019.

RESULTS

Literature reporting specifically on umbilical and epigastric hernias was limited in quantity and quality, resulting in a majority of the recommendations being graded as weak, based on low-quality evidence. The main recommendation was to use mesh for repair of umbilical and epigastric hernias to reduce the recurrence rate. Most umbilical and epigastric hernias may be repaired by an open approach with a preperitoneal flat mesh. A laparoscopic approach may be considered if the hernia defect is large, or if the patient has an increased risk of wound morbidity.

CONCLUSION

This is the first European and American guideline on the treatment of umbilical and epigastric hernias. It is recommended that symptomatic umbilical and epigastric hernias are repaired by an open approach with a preperitoneal flat mesh.

Primary non-complicated midline ventral hernia: overview of approaches and controversies

Umbilical hernias and epigastric hernias are some of the most common hernias in the world. Umbilical and epigastric hernia defects can range from small (<1 cm) to very large/complex hernias, and treatment options should be tailored to the clinical situation. Repair techniques include open, laparoscopic, and robotics options, each with advantages and disadvantages. A mesh-based repair is indicated in most cases due to having fewer associated recurrences. Overall outcomes are favorable following umbilical and epigastric hernia repairs; however, some patients have chronic complaints mostly related to recurrences. This report is an overview of available techniques for repair of umbilical and epigastric hernias. It also discusses ongoing controversies related to umbilical and epigastric hernia repairs, the limitations of available literature, and the need for future research.

Open ventral hernia repair with a composite ventral patch - final results of a multicenter prospective study

Background

This study assessed clinical outcomes, including safety and recurrence, from the two-year follow-up of patients who underwent open ventral primary hernia repair with the use of the Parietex™ Composite Ventral Patch (PCO-VP).

Methods

A prospective single-arm, multicenter study of 126 patients undergoing open ventral hernia repair for umbilical and epigastric hernias with the PCO-VP was performed.

Results

One hundred twenty-six subjects (110 with umbilical hernia and 16 with epigastric hernia) with a mean hernia diameter of 1.8 cm (0.4–4.0) were treated with PCO-VP. One hundred subjects completed the two-year study. Cumulative hernia recurrence was 3.0% (3/101; 95%CI: 0.0–6.3%) within 24 months. Median Numeric Rating Scale pain scores improved from 2 [0–10] at baseline to 0 [0–3] at 1 month (P < 0.001) and remained low at 24 months 0 [0–6] (P < 0.001). 99% (102/103) of the patients were satisfied with their repair at 24 months postoperative.

Conclusions

The use of PCO-VP to repair primary umbilical and epigastric defects yielded a low recurrence rate, low postoperative and chronic pain, and high satisfaction ratings, confirming that PCO-VP is effective for small ventral hernia repair in the two-year term after implantation.

Trial registration

The study was registered publically at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01848184 registered May 7, 2013).

Voluminous paraumbilical hernia containing the pancreas - An unusual cause of acute pancreatitis: A case report

Introduction

The paraumbilical hernia sac often contains the omentum, the small bowel, and less commonly the colon. The herniation of the pancreas through a paraumbilical hernia is extremely rare and has been reported only by two cases in the literature; moreover, acute pancreatitis secondary to this condition is a particularly unusual event.

Case report

We present a very unusual case of a 67-year-old female patient with a voluminous paraumbilical hernia containing the pancreas, complicated by acute pancreatitis. Laboratory data revealed an elevation of the pancreatic enzymes. An intravenous contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen demonstrated a large hernia sac containing multiple viscera, including the pancreas. The patient underwent emergency laparotomy with a diagnosis of intestinal obstruction.

Conclusion

The clinicians should consider this rare condition in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with large paraumbilical hernias associated with classical symptoms of acute pancreatitis, particularly in the absence of typical risk factors for pancreatitis. An intravenous contrast-enhanced abdominal CT scan should be performed immediately in these patients. We recommend the patients and the surgeons to consider prompt surgical repair for paraumbilical hernias to avoid further complications and the higher incidence of morbidity and mortality associated with emergency surgeries.

Laparoscopic versus open repair for small paraumbilical hernia: A retrospective review

INTRODUCTION

The advantages of laparoscopic surgery for ventral hernia repairs are well documented, but its application for small paraumbilical hernias has been less studied. There is no consensus regarding the best technique.

METHODS

All patients who had open (suture or mesh) and laparoscopic repair of primary paraumbilical hernia between September 2007 and September 2017 in a single center were identified. Hernial defects of 2 cm or less were included; recurrent hernias were excluded. Primary outcomes included operative time, length of hospital stay, and surgical complications.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven patients were recruited: 54 (70.1%) had open repair and 23 (29.9%) had laparoscopic repair. Forty-six patients (85%) in the open group had primary suture repair. The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the open group than in the laparoscopic group (27.2 vs 56.1 min, P < 0.05). The length of hospital stay in the open group was significantly shorter than in the laparoscopic group (0.8 vs 1.4 days, P = 0.00). Early complications rates were similar, with wound complications in 5.6% (3/54) of open repair patients and 4.3% (1/23) of laparoscopic repair patients (P = 1.0). Among open repair patients, 19 patients (35.2%) were successfully discharged within 12 h after operation. Two patients (3.7%) in the open simple suture group developed recurrence, but no recurrence was identified in the laparoscopic group; this was not statistically significant (P = 1.0).

CONCLUSION

The laparoscopic approach is comparable to the open approach in the repair of small paraumbilical hernias. For small paraumbilical hernias, we recommend that laparoscopic repair be reserved for obese patients or those with suspected multiple hernial defects.

Prevalence and risk factors for abdominal wall hernia in the general Russian population

PURPOSE

To find out the prevalence and risk factors for abdominal wall hernias in the general Russian population.

METHODS

783 residents of Kryukovo rural community (Central Russia) of 10 > years were enrolled. Medical history was taken and clinical examination was performed documenting hernia presence. Ultrasound examination was performed in inconclusive situations. We considered residents with hernias at the time of examination, as well as those who had previously undergone hernia repair, to be hernia positive.

RESULTS

There were 298 (38%) men and 485 (62%) women (mean age 49.3). Abdominal wall hernias have been found in 20.9% of population. 31.2% of men and 14.6% of women were affected (p < 0.0001). Umbilical hernias was found in 10.2%, groin hernias in 8.3%, incisional in 2.4% of residents. 72% of individuals with hernia reported local pain. 70% had never asked for medical advice before, 30% had undergone hernia repair before. Male gender, age, family history were confirmed as risk factors for any hernia with OR 3.9, 1.03 and 2.7, respectively (p < 0.01). For groin hernias male gender, age, family history and rough labour were confirmed with ORs 9.2, 1.03, 2.9 (p < 0.01) and 2.1 (p < 0.05). Risk factors for umbilical hernias were male gender with OR 2.2 (p < 0.01), age, family history and BMI with ORs 1.02, 1.8 and 1.08 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to demonstrate prevalence of abdominal wall hernias and its risk factors in Russia. The results confirm that hernias are common in a general population pointing the need for improvement of surgical activity.

Tentacle-shaped mesh for fixation-free repair of umbilical hernias

Purpose

Mesh fixation and broad overlap represent an open issue in umbilical hernia repair. A proprietary-designed implant with tentacle straps at its boundary has been developed to ensure a suture-free repair and a broader coverage of the abdominal wall. The study describes the results of umbilical hernia procedures carried out with the tentacle-shaped implant and the related surgical technique.

Methods

A proprietary tentacle-shaped flat mesh having a central body with integrated radiating arms at its edge was used to repair large umbilical hernias in 62 patients. The implant was placed in preperitoneal sublay. The friction of the straps, crossing the abdominal wall thanks to a special needle passer, was intended to assure adequate grip to hold the implant in place assuring a fixation-free procedure and broad overlap of the hernia defect.

Results

In a mean follow-up of 48 months (range 10–62 months), 4 seromas and 2 ischemia of the navel skin occurred. No infections, hematomas, chronic pain, mesh dislocation, or recurrence has been reported.

Conclusions

The tentacle strap system of the prosthesis effectively ensured an easier implant placement avoiding the need for suturing the mesh. The arms of the implant ensured a proper orientation and stabilization of the mesh in association with a broad defect overlap. The specifically developed surgical procedure showed a quick postoperative recovery, a very low complication rate, and no recurrences even in the long term.

Open mesh versus suture repair of umbilical hernia: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The optimal methodology of surgical treatment of umbilical hernia in adults remains controversial. Previously published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies have demonstrated advantage for open mesh over suture repair. Two published meta-analyses, including RCTs and retrospective cohort studies, have compared the outcomes of open mesh versus suture repair of umbilical hernia in adult, which were flawed since they included both elective and emergency repairs of umbilical hernias. The aim of this meta-analysis is to include RCTs to examine whether open mesh repair of umbilical hernia produces a better outcome than suture repair in adult patients.

METHODS

A literature search using Medline, Embase and Cochrane Database was performed, and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3.5 software. Outcomes evaluated incidence of hernia recurrence, wound infection, haematoma, seroma and patient death.

RESULTS

Of the 620 records identified, 4 RCTs, including 620 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. In the RCTS, when open mesh repair was compared with suture repair, open mesh repair was associated with significantly low incidence of recurrence (odds ratio (OR) 0.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.10-0.48; P = 0.0001). The incidence of wound infection (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.35-2.31; P = 0.82), haematoma (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.28-2.41; P = 0.73), and seroma (OR 2.01, 95% CI 0.82-4.91; P = 0.13), were similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Open mesh repair was associated with significant reduction in the recurrence rate in comparison to suture repair of umbilical hernia.

SUBCUTANEOUS ONLAY LAPAROSCOPIC APPROACH (SCOLA) FOR VENTRAL HERNIA AND RECTUS ABDOMINIS DIASTASIS REPAIR: TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION AND INITIAL RESULTS

Background:

Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles (DMRA) is frequent and may be associated with abdominal wall hernias. For patients with redudant skin, dermolipectomy and plication of the diastasis is the most commonly used procedure. However, there is a significant group of patients who do not require skin resection or do not want large incisions.

Aim:

To describe a “new” technique (subcutaneous onlay laparoscopic approach - SCOLA) for the correction of ventral hernias combined with the DMRA plication and to report the initial results of a case series.

Method:

SCOLA was applied in 48 patients to correct ventral hernia concomitant to plication of DMRA by pre-aponeurotic endoscopic technique.

Results:

The mean operative time was 93.5 min. There were no intra-operative complications and no conversion. Seroma was the most frequent complication (n=13, 27%). Only one (2%) had surgical wound infection. After a median follow-up of eight months (2-19), only one (2%) patient presented recurrence of DMRA and one (2%) subcutaneous tissue retraction/fibrosis. Forty-five (93.7%) patients reported being satisfied with outcome.

Conclusion:

The SCOLA technique is a safe, reproducible and effective alternative for patients with abdominal wall hernia associated with DMRA.

Lower Risk of Recurrence After Mesh Repair Versus Non-Mesh Sutured Repair in Open Umbilical Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The use of mesh repair in a small- or middle-sized umbilical hernia remains controversial, and evidence is based on only few and small heterogeneous randomized trials. The primary aim was to assess differences, if any, in recurrence (clinical and reoperation), and secondary aim was to assess differences in infections, seroma formation, hematomas, chronic pain, cosmetic result, and quality of life.

METHOD

A systematic review (predefined search strategy) and meta-analyses were conducted based on pre-study strict and well-defined methodology. The literature search was completed on 1 January 2018. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled trials were identified (mesh repair, n = 326 versus non-mesh sutured repair, n = 330) and 602 records were excluded. Randomized controlled trials included patients with defect diameters of ⩾1 to 4 cm. Mesh repair reduced the risk of recurrence compared with sutured repair with a relative risk of 0.28 (95% confidence interval = 0.13-0.58, I² = 0%, number needed to treat = 13 patients). Additional analyses found no differences between the two surgical techniques regarding infection (relative risk = 0.80, 95% confidence interval = 0.36-1.79), seroma formation (relative risk = 1.38, 95% confidence interval = 0.57-3.32), or hematomas (relative risk = 0.55, 95% confidence interval = 0.23-1.30). Lack of sufficient data precluded meta-analysis evaluating risk of seroma formation, hematomas, chronic pain, cosmetic result, and quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Mesh repair is recommended for umbilical hernia of ⩾1 to 4 cm. More evidence is needed for the optimal placement of the mesh (sublay or onlay) and the role of mesh in patients with an umbilical hernia <1 cm.

Concomitant Abdominoplasty and Laparoscopic Umbilical Hernia Repair

BACKGROUND

Umbilical hernia is a common finding in patients undergoing abdominoplasty, especially those who are postpartum with rectus divarication. Concurrent surgical treatment of the umbilical hernia at abdominoplasty presents a "vascular challenge" due to the disruption of dermal blood supply to the umbilicus, leaving the stalk as the sole axis of perfusion. To date, there have been no surgical techniques described to adequately address large umbilical herniae during abdominoplasty.

OBJECTIVES

To present an effective and safe technique that can address large umbilical herniae during abdominoplasty.

METHODS

A prospective series of 10 consecutive patients, undergoing concurrent abdominoplasty and laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair between 2014 and 2017 were included in the study. All procedures were performed by the same general surgeon and plastic surgeon at the Macquarie University Hospital in North Ryde, NSW, Australia. Data were collected with approval of our ethics committee.

RESULTS

At 12-month follow up there were no instances of umbilical necrosis, wound complications, seroma, or recurrent hernia. The mean body mass index was 23.8 kg/m2 (range, 16.1-30.1 kg/m2). Rectus divarication ranged from 35 to 80 mm (mean, 53.5 mm). Umbilical hernia repair took a mean of 25.9 minutes to complete (range, 18-35 minutes).

CONCLUSIONS

We present a technique that avoids incision of the rectus fascia minimizes dissection of the umbilical stalk and is able to provide a gold standard hernia repair with mesh. This procedure is particularly suited to postpartum patients with large herniae (>3-4 cm diameter) and wide rectus divarication, where mesh repair with adequate overlap is the recommended treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4