Laparoscopic degradable patch repair of umbilical hernia in adults

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the methods and outcome of laparoscopic degradable bio-patch repair of umbilical hernia in adults. Methods From January 2003 to October 2008, 21 adult patients underwent elective laparoscopic patch repair of umbilical hernia. There were 15 women and 6 men. The mean age was 56 years old (range of 36-73). The diameter of hernia ring was from 3 to 7.5 cm averaging at 5.2 cm. All patients received general anesthesia. Preoperative bowel preparation routinely started one day before the operation. The patients received prophylaxis systemic antibiotics 30 minutes before the operation. An appropriate size of prosthetic patch (Composix E/X, Bard, USA) was that extended the defect margin for about 3-5 cm. The mesh was then inserted into the peritoneal cavity and spreaded flattening, with the polyplypylene side facing outside and it's center coinciding with that of the defect. The mesh was fixed to the abdominal wall with staple tacks in two rings, which was 3-5 cm along the hernia ring and 1-2 cm along the edge of the mesh. Results There was no conversion to open repair. The operative time was 30 to 96 rain and the average was 52 min. Two patients suffered from a transient postoperative tympanites and which subsided 2 to 3 days after the operation. One patient had a severe pain in the repair area around the umbilical and underwent oral medicine treatment, which disappeared one week after operation. There was no seroma and incision or mesh infection occurred. The postoperative hospital stay was 3 to 8 days and the average was 4. 2 days. The follow-up time was 3 months to 5 years and the average was 32 months. No ileus or hernia recurrence during the follow-up. Conclusion Laparoscopic patch repair of umbilical hernia in adults is a safe and effective procedure. Key words: Hernia,umbilical; Laparoscopes; Hemiorrhaphy