P013 HOW TO IMPROVE TREATMENT OF COMPLEX INCISIONAL HERNIAS IN OBESE PATIENTS: A SINGLE-CENTRE STUDY, AN EVALUATION OF LESS-OPEN TECHNIQUE AND FREE-FIXATION TECHNIQUE

Abstract

Abstract Aim Surgery of a complex incisional hernia in an obese patient is a challenging procedure for hernia surgeons. The aim of a new approach is to reduce complications such as pain and wound events, without increasing the number of recurrences. Material and Methods Adults with BMI more than 35 who underwent open, elective operation of a complex incisional hernia (with horizontal diameter more than 12cm) including posterior component separation technique with TAR (transversus abdominis muscle release) and retromuscular synthetic large-pore mesh placement, were identified. Patients were divided into 2 groups: The first group was treated with standard open technique with fixation using interrupted stitches, and the second group was treated with a technique using light hook and no or reduced fixation in the upper and lower pole of the mesh. For post-operative complication evaluation, the Clavien-Dindo classification was used. We have also evaluated an average operation time, length of stay, duration of opioid need. The long-term follow-up was 6 – 48 months. Results There was no significant difference in length of stay, the need of analgetic treatment, and hernia recurrence. Shorter operation time, and lower occurrence of surgical-site infections were reported in the second group, but it was not significant. Conclusions Open posterior component separation technique with TAR using large-pore mesh and no/minimal fixation seems to be a safe and sufficient method of treatment for complex incisional hernias in obese patients. Alternative methods may reduce early complications and pain and do not increase number of recurrences. A larger group of patients and longer follow-up should be needed to improve these findings.