Outcomes of abdominal wall reconstruction in complex ventral hernia patients: a single institution based prospective study

TL;DR

This study examines the outcomes of abdominal wall reconstruction in patients with complex ventral hernias, highlighting recurrence rates and complications.

Contribution

The study provides insights into individualized surgical approaches for complex ventral hernia repair.

Findings

Recurrence rate was 5.2% at 2-year follow-up.

Common complications included seroma and surgical site infection at 15.6% each.

Mean operative time was 154.8 minutes with an average hospital stay of 2.8 days.

Abstract

Complex ventral hernias, especially in patients with prior surgeries, large defects, or comorbidities, are associated with high rates of recurrence and complications such as infection, pain, and loss of abdominal domain. This study aims to contribute to developing standardised management strategies.

A prospective study was conducted at BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences over two years, involving 38 patients undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction for complex ventral hernias. Preoperative assessment included NCCT and selective use of botulinum toxin for optimisation. Surgical approaches were individualised. Data on demographics, hernia characteristics, surgical technique, operative time, complications, hospital stay, recurrence, and chronic pain were collected and analysed.

Of 88 ventral hernia cases, 44 were complex; 38 underwent repair. Most were incisional hernias located at M2–M5, with a mean defect size of 7.1 ± 2.9 cm. Mean operative time was 154.8 ± 51.6 minutes. Complications included seroma (15.6%), SSI (15.6%), hematoma (5.3%), and enterotomy (5.3%). Average hospital stay was 2.8 ± 1.2 days; activity resumed in 7.5 ± 2.9 days. At 2-year follow-up, recurrence was seen in 5.2%.

Tailored individualised planning is crucial in complex abdominal reconstruction due to patient and defect variability, making standard techniques impractical.