Double Prosthetic Repair for Complex Incisional Hernia Repair: Long-term Results and Evolution of the Technique

Abstract

No single approach has emerged as the best way to close complex incisional hernias. The aim of this report is to present the long-term results with a double prosthetic repair. In this prospective observational study over 12 years (Group 1, 8 years; Group 2, 4 years), the following data were collected: age, gender, previous surgery, comorbidities, situation and size of defect, hospital stay, postoperative complications, and recurrence. There were 53 lateral cases and 31 midline cases. About 88.6 per cent of the lateral defects were repaired without needing to approach the intraabdominal cavity (Type I), whereas in the patients with large medial defects this was only achieved in 6.5 per cent of the cases (93.5% required a Type II). The average length of the defects was 18 cm. Global morbidity was 18 per cent early, and 7 per cent late. The statistical analysis over time shows significant differences in the operative time, hospital stay, and consumption of analgesics ( P < 0.001). The recurrence rate has not varied despite the modifications to the technique (use of lighter meshes and fixation with tacks and glue). Complex abdominal wall defects can be corrected using the double prosthetic repair technique with low morbidity rates and with practically no long-term recurrence. The combination of two meshes reduces their density and the use of combined fixation (tacks + glue) improves postoperative recovery.