Impact of sex on ventral hernia repair outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

BackgroundGiven the variability in abdominal physiology and hernia presentation between sexes, better comprehension of sex-related differences in outcomes would tailor surgical approach and counseling regarding postoperative outcomes. This meta-analysis aims to appraise the effect of sex on the outcomes of ventral hernia repair. MethodsA literature search in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane selected studies comparing outcomes of ventral hernia repair between sexes. Postoperative outcomes were assessed by pooled and meta-analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4. ResultsWe screened 3128 studies, reviewed 133, and included 18 observational studies, which encompassed 220,799 patients following ventral hernia repair. Postoperative chronic pain was significantly higher in female (OR 1,9; 95% CI 1,64–2,2; p ​< ​0,001). There were no significant differences in complications, readmission, or recurrence rates between females and males. ConclusionFemale sex is associated with a higher risk of postoperative chronic pain following ventral hernia repair.