Prospective, international analysis of quality of life outcomes in recurrent versus primary ventral hernia repairs

Abstract

BackgroundQuality of life (QOL) has become a key outcome measure following ventral hernia repair (VHR), but recurrent and primary VHR have not been compared in this context previously. MethodsThe International Hernia Mesh Registry (2008–2019) was used to identify patients with QOL data scored by the Carolinas Comfort Scale preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 year. ResultsRepairs were performed in 227 recurrent and 1,122 primary VHs. Recurrent patients had a higher BMI, larger defects, and were more likely to have preoperative pain, but other comorbidities were equal. Recurrence rates at 1 year were equivalent. Recurrent patients had a greater improvement in pain (−6.3 ± 10.2 vs −4.3 ± 8.3,p = 0.002) and movement limitation (−5.5 ± 10.0 vs −3.2 ± 7.2,p < 0.001) compared to primary patients, but they had increased postoperative mesh sensation (4.6 ± 7.7 vs 2.7 ± 5.5,p < 0.001). ConclusionsRecurrent VHRs led to improved pain and movement limitation, but increased mesh sensation. These findings may be useful for preoperative counseling in the elective setting.