Clinical pattern and effect of Co-Morbidities in the etiopathogenesis of incisional hernias

Abstract

Background: Incisional hernia is a common iatrogenic complication of abdominal surgery and is a cause of unwanted morbidity. The study was reported for the first time from Republic of Mauritius. Aims & Objectives: The objective of the study was to analyze the clinical pattern and effect of comorbidities on the clinical course of incisional hernias and repair. Methods: The study is a cross sectional study conducted at a tertiary care hospital for over 22 months. 38 patients with incisional hernia were studied with special emphasis laid on the predisposing factors and co-morbidities at the time of hernia repair. Results: In this study the incidence of incisional hernia was prevalent in females and occurrence was 3 times more than males. All hernias in females were the result of a gynaecological operation. 68% (26 out of 38 patients studied) of hernias were reported within 2 years of gynaecological operation. Majority of patients presented with swelling and pain related to scar. Twenty two out of thirty eight were operated and hernia repaired. Obesity was found to be the most important factor when the effects of co-morbidities were studied. Fifteen out of thirty eight (39.47%) patients came under the category of morbidly obese. Conclusion: In patients with recurrent hernia control of obesity and other comorbidities before the attempt to repair hernia can be decisive.