The open components separation technique (CST) for hernia repair allows for autologous tissue repair with approximation of the midline fascia in patients with complex hernias. CST requires creation of large undermining skin flaps, whereas the endoscopic component separation technique (ECST) is performed without division of the epigastric perforating vessels and may minimize wound morbidity. A review of patient demographics and outcome measures of patients undergoing CST and ECST between November 2008 and February 2010 was performed. Twenty-five patients were identified who underwent either CST (14 patients) or ECST (11 patients). There were no differences in body mass index (CST 34.8 kg/m2, ECST 37.5 kg/m2, P = 0.45), operating room times (CST 268 minutes, ECST 252 minutes, P = 0.54), or hospital length of stay (CST 5 days, ECST 5.8 days, P = 0.78). Wound complications occurred less with ECST (9 vs 57%, P = 0.03). The time to resolution of wound complications in ECST was reduced * 1 vs 4 months). No recurrences were seen in either group with a mean follow-up of 4months (range, 1 to 12 months). ECST and CST require similar operative times and hospital lengths of stay. ECST is associated with reduced wound complications compared with CST. Short-term recurrence rates with CST and ECST are comparable.

Separation of components technique for incisional hernia repair is increasingly utilized as a strategy for hernia repair in both the obese and those with loss of abdominal domain. Endoscopic component separation technique [ECST] is increasingly performed to minimize wound complications associated with the open procedure. We present a case of a patient who developed acute renal failure related to rhabdomyolysis following ECST. A 62-year-old morbidly obese female with BMI of 46 underwent ECST hernia repair for a large midline hernia with loss of domain. Postoperatively, she was found to be oliguric with a dark brown colored urine, elevated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, and increased urine myoglobin levels. She recovered with aggressive hydration and urine alkalinization. We present this unique complication and review the literature.