Abdominal wall augmentation techniques used in complex postincisional hernias repair

Abstract

One of the most common unwanted consequence of abdominal surgery is the development of an incisional hernia. It occurs in up to 20% or more of laparotomies [1], [2]. Complex defects of the abdominal wall may also be caused by infection, trauma or tumor resection [3]. Complex and recurrent defects of the abdominal wall represents a challenging surgical and a socio-economic problem due to the time and material expenses [2]. Besides the aesthetic disfigurement those defects may also lead to functional consequences with poor protection of the intra-abdominal viscera [4]. Various surgical approaches can be used in hernia repair in an open fashion or minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic techniques.
 Mesh herniorrhaphy was demonstrated to be superior to suture repair alone, with a recurrence rate of 32% compared with 63% in long-term follow-up, in spite of the advances made in mesh materials, surgical technique and perioperative care [1].
 Regardless the approach, the tension-free repair remain the basis of modern herniology [5].