No abstract

Background: Reversal of stoma is a frequently performed elective procedure in the Surgical discipline. The rate of incisional hernia after this has been reported to be around 30 % in different studies. Debate still exists among surgeons regarding the use of mesh during the reversal owing to the contamination of the field. Biologic meshes have been used widely but cost a lot. The aim of this study was to asses the safety and feasibility of synthetic meshes during closure. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was carried out at The Cancer Foundation Hospital. All patients undergoing the reversal of stoma during two years from Feb 2018 to Feb 2020 were placed an on-lay Prolene mesh during the closure. Patients were followed up for complications. Results: A total of 24 patients were included. 19 of them were ileostomy closures while 5 were colostomies. None of the patients developed mesh infection or needed mesh removal (0 %). 2 patients developed anastomotic leak and enterocutaneous fistula (9 %). Both were treated conservatively by opening up the wound and dressings. 7 patients (29%) developed SSI and 1 of them developed abdominal wall abscess. Early follow up till now has not revealed any hernias. Conclusions: Use of synthetic mesh is safe during stoma closure. The frequency of SSI increases after the placement of mesh but once the mesh gets incorporated , does not need to be removed. We advise placement of synthetic mesh during the reversal to prevent incisional hernias.