A scarless technique of umbilical hernia repair in the adult population

Abstract

Umbilical hernias are common in adults during their 30s-60s. Most umbilical hernias result in increased intraabdominal pressure and prompt repair is advised. The technique described here involves dissection of the hernia sac from the subcutaneous tissue with a horizontal fascial closure in a tension-free procedure. Records of 57 patients treated for umbilical hernia in a 7-year period were reviewed retrospectively. Data were collected regarding sex, age, follow up, and complications. All patients were treated successfully. Postoperatively, eight complications were noted (one wound infection, three seromas, and four cases of cellulitis). Follow up ranged from 1 week to 3 months. The technique described here is based on one used in the pediatric population. Our repair is applied to adults with hernias of less than 2 cm in diameter. At the final follow up no scar can be seen as it has been buried within the umbilicus.