Original article
A comparison of methods and results of ventral incisional hernia repair

Incisional hernia is the most frequent complication of abdominal surgery. Multiple techniques are employed in repair of incisional hernias – ranging from sutured repair to the use of mesh. However, there is no consistent approach to the repair of ventral hernia. Mesh repair is becoming increasingly popular in surgery involving ventral incisional hernias.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to compare the methods used in ventral incisional hernia repair performed during two periods, 1990-1995 and 2000-2005, at the Surgery Department in Siedlce Hospital.
Materials and methods:
The data of 137 patients who underwent incisional hernia repair were analyzed. Over years 1990-1995 we performed 54 procedures, and 83 in 2000-2005. The surgical techniques employed in repair were determined. Hospital stay and complications related to the surgery were compared. Recurrence rates were analyzed after collecting by phone current data of all eligible patients – performed in May 2006.
Results:
During the first analyzed period there was no mesh repair. Over years 2000-2005 synthetic mesh was employed in 28 (33.7%) of all performed repairs. In the first period mean hospital stay was 7 days, and in the second 5 days. We observed 35.7% recurrences among patients who underwent surgery in 1990-1995. During the second period recurrence rate was 9.5% after mesh repair and 20.6% after suture repair.
Conclusions:
The use of polypropylene mesh is gaining popularity in ventral incisional hernia repair and results in lower recurrence rate. Wound infection may complicate postoperative course in patients after hernia repair. The treatment requires prolonged and costly hospital stay.