Abstract
PurposeIncisional hernia (IH) is a complication following abdominal surgery extensively studied in adults but less so in infants. This study aimed to identify the incidence, high risk diseases and risk factors of IH following abdominal surgery in infants. MethodsInfants undergoing abdominal surgery before the age of three years in our tertiary centre between 1998 and 2018 were included. Patient demographics, peri‑operative details and the course during follow up were retrospectively extracted from patient records. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors. ResultsThe incidence of incisional hernia was 5.2% (107/2055). Necrotizing enterocolitis (12%), gastroschisis (19%), and omphalocele (17%) had the highest incidences of IH. Wound infection (OR: 5.3, 95%-CI:2.9–9.5), preterm birth (OR: 4.2, 95%-CI:2.6–6.7) and history of stoma (OR 1.7, 95%-CI:1.1–2.8) were significant risk factors for IH. Whilst age at surgery, surgical approach and total number of operations did not significantly influence IH development. The IH resolved in 15% (16/107) without surgery. ConclusionOne in twenty infants experiences IH following abdominal surgery, which is higher than previously described. Understanding the incidence of IH and associated risk factors will allow physicians to identify infants that may be at increased risk for IH and to possibly act pre-emptively.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
