Significance of the computed tomography assisted morphometry in the surgical planning of eventrated abdominal wall hernias

Abstract

The eventrated, giant abdominal wall hernias represent a considerable challenge in our practice. Presently, preoperative evaluation of the musculo-aponeurotic elements of the abdominal wall by CT imaging is not part of routine planning of surgery. Evaluation of the abdominal wall hernia progression in time. Moreover, follow up the changes of the abdominal wall structures following series of intraabdominal surgeries. Abdominal CT imaging were performed on the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 12th, 18th, and 24th postoperative months after the primary series of surgeries in the cases of 12 patients, whose reconstructive surgeries were not possible. A prospective data collection was applied. Changing of the bilateral rectus muscle morphology, the evolution in time of the midline gap, and the progressive dynamism of the midline wall defects were determined. A characteristic and progressive midline defect enlargement could be settled. Data analysis yielded that the combined width of the bilateral rectus muscles is sufficient to cover the midline abdominal wall defect, although there is an "optimal" timeframe for performing the intervention. CT evaluation of abdominal wall prior to reconstructive surgeries of loss of abdominal wall domain has a strong significance on determining and designing the adequate surgical procedure. Orv. Hetil., 2017, 158(7), 257-263.