Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Research Articles

THE INCIDENCE OF ADDITIONAL HERNIA DEFECTS IN A DIASTATIC LINEA ALBA, NOT REPORTED ON PRE-OPERATIVE CT IMAGING

Abstract Aim Patients with ventral primary or incisional hernias with significant recti diastasis are frequently refered to abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) services. We audited the rate of incidental intra-operative ventral defects related to diastatic linea alba. Method A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was carried out from March 2023 to January 2024. All patients who underwent AWR using a minimally invasive approach (MIS) were included. Data on the following variables were collected: sex, age (years), BMI (kg/m2), length of hospital stay (LOS, days), operative time (hours), and ventral defects. Results 27 patients underwent MIS AWR (22 robotic; 8 laparoscopic). Male to female ratio was 16:11. Median age was 58 years (IQR 48–66) and BMI 36 kg/m2 (IQR 32–37). All patients underwent eTEP retro-rectus Rives-Stoppa + diastasis plication using macroporous polypropylene non-absorbable synthetic mesh. Median operating time was 3.3 hours (IQR 3.1–3.5) and LOS was 2 days (IQR 1–2). 1 (3%) patient had laparoscopic converted to open procedure due to bowel involvement. 13 (48%) of patients had extra defects associated with diastatic linea alba which were not visualized in pre-operative cross-sectional imagining. Conclusion When compared to a local repair, the MIS AWR approach in patients with ventral hernias and significant diastasis is justified when considering the high likelihood of synchronous linea alba defects and therefore a risk for future recurrence. These extra defects are rarely detected on pre-operative cross-sectional images. In addition, the plication of diastasis during AWR allows surgeons to recreate a more functional linea alba.

SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR ADVANCED COLORECTAL CANCER WITH ABDOMINAL WALL INVASION AND IMPLANTATION

Abstract Aim The prognosis of abdominal wall invasion and implantation from colorectal cancer (CRC) is not good. With radical resection and abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) technique, locally advanced CRC patients with resectable abdominal wall invasion and implantation may achieve longer tumor-free survival time and an improved quality of life. Methods 15 patients were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent preoperative three-dimensional visualization reconstruction of the abdominal wall and evaluation with a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Patient information, including tumor size, defect size, operation time, intraoperative bleeding, length of hospital stays, and other factors, was collected. Results All 15 locally advanced CRC patients with abdominal wall invasion and implantation underwent radical abdominal wall tumor resection followed by AWR. The average tumor dimension and abdominal wall defects after resection were 98.13 ± 71.70 and 270.07 ± 101.95 cm2 respectively; and accurate abdominal wall classification and zoning were obtained for all patients. The average operation time was 431.7 ± 189.2 min, and the average blood loss was 513.3 ± 244.6 ml. The incidence of incisional hernia and CRC recurrence were 6.0% and 13.3%, respectively. Conclusions With comprehensive preoperative evaluation, results of radical resection of abdominal wall invasion and implantation in locally advanced CRC patients is satisfactory and safe.

INTRAOPERATIVE FASCIAL TRACTION FOR TREATMENT OF W2 AND W3 VENTRAL HERNIAS

Abstract Background Component separation techniques are increasingly employed in abdominal wall reconstruction surgery. The use of adjuvant techniques, such as intraoperative vertical dynamic fascial traction, enhances the compliance of the abdominal wall. This facilitates closure of the abdominal wall using less disruptive techniques without compromising effective treatment. Our aim is to retrospective review our results regarding the effectiveness and complication rate of intraoperative fascial traction for the treatment of complex ventral hernias. Method Conducted a retrospective analysis of 10 patients who underwent surgery using intraoperative fascial traction for W2 and W3 ventral hernias. Results Preoperatively, fascial distances measured ranged from 55 cm to 145 cm, with the majority of patients (70%) having a fascial distance greater than 10 cm. Most patients received other adjuvant treatments (nine cases with botulinum toxin injection and one with pre-operative progressive pneumoperitoneum). Posterior component techniques were employed in 40% of patients (half with W2 hernias and the other half with W3 hernias). The complication rate was 10%, with one case of hemorrhage requiring percutaneous embolization. During the average 6-month follow-up period (ranging from 1 to 17 months), one recurrence was observed. Conclusion Intraoperative fascial traction is a feasible and safe adjuvant technique for abdominal wall reconstruction. The use of adjuvants in complex abdominal wall hernia surgery may, in some patients, downstage the hernia, thereby avoiding the need for component separation techniques. This approach enables tension-free closure of the abdominal wall in a less invasive manner.

PATIENT CASE STUDY: REBUILDING A PATIENT’S LIFE NOT JUST THEIR ABDOMINAL WALL – EXPERIENCE FROM A TERTIARY HERNIA CENTRE ON THE IMPACT OF ABDOMINAL WALL RECONSTRUCTION ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract Introduction Abdominal wall reconstruction is a transformative intervention, significantly improving the quality of life for individuals with complex defects. This paper focuses on sharing a patient's experience post-surgery. Case Presentation The patient presented with a complex incisional hernia following a laparotomy, Hartmann’s procedure and splenectomy for perforated diverticular disease. Their CT scan showed a 16.5 × 17.5 cm defect, with a separate component involving their colostomy and lateral displacement of their muscle complexes. The hernia significantly impacted the patient's quality of life, manifesting as daily moderate pain that hindered routine activities. They required daily dressings and antibiotics due to skin changes over the hernia. Furthermore, dissatisfaction with the cosmetic appearance of the hernia contributed to the overall burden on the patient. Management and Outcomes The patient underwent pre-operative botulinum toxin injections six weeks prior to their abdominal wall reconstruction. They received 200 units divided equally between internal and external obliques. During their surgery they required a left sided transversus abdominus release and an >5cm mesh overlap was achieved in all directions. A post-operative CT scan conducted ten days after the surgery revealed no complications. The patient's recovery progressed well, leading to their discharge 12 days post-surgery. Discussion The patient was reviewed nine months post-surgery. Expressing high satisfaction with the surgical outcome, they conveyed a profound positive impact on their quality of life. The patient's newfound confidence in the improved cosmesis of their hernia was evident. Overall, the surgery proved transformative, liberating the patient from the burdens of frequent medical appointments and instilling a renewed sense of self-assurance.

DEVELOPING A ROBOTIC ABDOMINAL WALL RECONSTRUCTION SERVICE IN THE UK – SINGLE CENTRE EXPERIENCE

Abstract Aim A minimally invasive approach (MIS) to complex abdominal wall reconstruction (CAWR) is expanding and offers advantages in enhanced recovery. We report our single-centre experience in the introduction of Robotic CAWR. Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was carried out from March 2023 to January 2024. All patients undergoing CAWR using a MIS approach were included. Data was collected for the following: sex, age (years), BMI (kg/m2), length of hospital stay (LOS, days), operative time (hours), and post-operative complications. Results 30 patients underwent MIS CAWR (22 robotic; 8 laparoscopic). Male to female ratio was 18:12. The median age was 59 years (IQR 47–66) and BMI 36 kg/m2 (IQR 32–37). Operations included eTEP retro-rectus Rives-Stoppa (RS) + diastasis plication +/- TAR repair using macroporous polypropylene non-absorbable synthetic mesh. Three patients (10%) had TAR and another 3 (10%) had simultaneous inguinal hernia repairs. The median operating time for RS was 3.3 hours (IQR 3.1–3.5) whilst 7.5 hours (IQR 7.2–7.8) for RS + TAR. The median LOS was 2 days (IQR 1–2). Seven (23%) patients developed post-operative urinary retention requiring catheterization. 1 (3%) patient developed a post-operative chest infection. Twenty-two of 27 (82%) patients undergoing MIS Rives Stoppa required oral post-operative analgesia only. 1 (3%) patient had laparoscopic converted to open procedure due to bowel involvement. Conclusion MIS/Robotic CAWR is a safe approach and can be performed in a similar length of time to open procedures. However, LOS is significantly reduced and patients can be successfully managed with oral analgesia.

Machine learning, deep learning and hernia surgery. Are we pushing the limits of abdominal core health? A qualitative systematic review.

This systematic review aims to evaluate the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence in hernia surgery. The PRISMA guidelines were followed throughout this systematic review. The ROBINS-I and Rob 2 tools were used to perform qualitative assessment of all studies included in this review. Recommendations were then summarized for the following pre-defined key items: protocol, research question, search strategy, study eligibility, data extraction, study design, risk of bias, publication bias, and statistical analysis. A total of 13 articles were ultimately included for this review, describing the use of machine learning and deep learning for hernia surgery. All studies were published from 2020 to 2023. Articles varied regarding the population studied, type of machine learning or Deep Learning Model (DLM) used, and hernia type. Of the thirteen included studies, all included either inguinal, ventral, or incisional hernias. Four studies evaluated recognition of surgical steps during inguinal hernia repair videos. Two studies predicted outcomes using image-based DMLs. Seven studies developed and validated deep learning algorithms to predict outcomes and identify factors associated with postoperative complications. The use of ML for abdominal wall reconstruction has been shown to be a promising tool for predicting outcomes and identifying factors that could lead to postoperative complications.

Three-year follow-up of the grip concept: an open, prospective, observational registry study on biomechanically calculated abdominal wall repair for complex incisional hernias.

We studied the effectiveness of biomechanically calculated abdominal wall reconstructions for incisional hernias of varying complexity in an open, prospective observational registry trial. From July 1st, 2017 to December 31st, 2020, four hospitals affiliated with the University of Heidelberg recruited 198 patients with complex incisional hernias. Hernias were repaired using biomechanically calculated reconstructions and materials classified on their gripping force towards cyclic load. This approach determines the required strength preoperatively based on the hernia size, using the Critical Resistance to Impacts related to Pressure. The surgeon is supported in reliably determining the Gained Resistance, which is based on the mesh-defect-area-ratio, as well as other mesh and suture factors, and the tissue stability. Tissue stability is defined as a maximum distension of 1.5cm upon a Valsalva maneuver. In complex cases, a CT scan of the abdomen can be used to assess unstable tissue areas both at rest and during Valsalva's maneuver. Larger and stronger gripping meshes were required for more complex cases to achieve a durable repair, especially for larger hernia sizes. To achieve durable repairs, the number of fixation points increased while the mesh-defect area ratio decreased. Performing these repairs required more operating room time. The complication rate remained low. Less than 1% of recurrences and low pain levels were observed after 3years. Biomechanical stability, defined as the resistance to cyclic load, is crucial in preventing postoperative complications, including recurrences and chronic pain.

First report of robotic retromuscular incisional hernia repair with Hugo Ras™ surgical system.

Treatment of incisional hernia is a rapidly evolving field of surgery, with actual trends being oriented toward retromuscular/preperitoneal mesh placement. The diffusion of robotic surgery is constantly growing in different surgical specialties and is gaining widespread acceptance for abdominal wall reconstruction. Recently, novel robotic platforms have entered into the market. In this study, we present the first transabdominal retromuscular incisional hernia repair performed with the new Hugo RAS™ system (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA). The surgical team had previous robotic experience and completed an official 2-day session running incisional hernia repair on human cadaver lab. Operating room setting and trocar layout were planned. The patient presented a 4 × 4cm midline incisional hernia and was scheduled for transabdominal retromuscular incisional hernia repair at our Institution. A description of the operative room setup, robotic arm configuration and docking/tilt angles is provided. Docking time, operative time, and console time were 15, 95, and 75min, respectively. All the surgical steps were completed without critical surgical errors or high-priority alarms. Neither intraoperative complications nor conversion to open surgery was recorded. Postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 2. The safety and the feasibility of these procedures will require further analysis and larger patients' sample sizes for procedural standardization and potential integration into minimally invasive abdominal wall reconstruction programs.

Robotic transversus abdominis release using HUGO RAS system: our initial experience.

Transversus abdominis release (TAR) is an effective technique for treating large midline and off-midline hernias. Recent studies have demonstrated that robotic TAR (rTAR) is technically feasible and associated with improved outcomes compared to open surgery. There is no published experience to date describing abdominal wall reconstruction using the novel robotic platform HUGO RAS System (Medtronic®). All consecutive patients who underwent a rTAR in our institution were included. Three of the four arm carts of the HUGO RAS System were used at any given time. Each arm configuration was defined by our team in conjunction with Medtronic® personnel. rTAR was performed as previously described. Upon completion of the TAR on one side, a redocking process with different, mirrored arms angles was performed to continue with the contralateral TAR. Operative variables and early morbidity were recorded. Ten patients were included in this study. The median BMI was 31 (21-40.6) kg/m2. The median height was 1.6m (1.5-1.89m). A trend of decreased operative time, console time, and redocking time was seen in these consecutive cases. No intraoperative events nor postoperative morbidity was reported. The median length of stay was 3 (1-6) days. Robotic TAR utilizing the HUGO RAS system is a feasible and safe procedure. The adoption of this procedure on this novel platform for the treatment of complex abdominal wall hernias has been successful for our team.

Outcomes of posterior sheath supplementation with Vicryl mesh in TAR-a single-center study.

In the Transversus Abdominis Release (TAR) procedure, ideally, the posterior sheath is completely reapproximated to establish an interface isolating the polypropylene mesh from visceral contents. When primary closure of the posterior sheath is unachievable, Vicryl mesh is commonly used to supplement the posterior sheath closure and an uncoated polypropylene mesh is placed superficial to the Vicryl mesh. The long-term implications of utilizing Vicryl mesh as an antiadhesive barrier are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to assess our outcomes when utilizing Vicryl mesh to supplement the posterior sheath defects when placed underneath polypropylene mesh in patients undergoing posterior component separation. Adult patients who underwent VHR with concurrent TAR procedure with a permanent synthetic mesh and posterior sheath supplementation with Vicryl mesh in the Cleveland Clinic Center for Abdominal Core Health between January 2014 and December 2022 were queried retrospectively from a prospectively collected database in the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative. We evaluated 30-day wound morbidity, perioperative complications, long-term mesh-related complications, and pragmatic hernia recurrence. 53 patients who underwent TAR procedure with posterior sheath supplementation using Vicryl mesh and had a minimum 12-month follow-up were identified. Of the53 patients, 94.3% presented with recurrent hernias, 73.6% had a midline hernia, 7.5% had a flank hernia, and 18.9% had concurrent parastomal hernia. The mean hernia width was 24.9 cm (± 8.8 cm). No Vicryl mesh-related operative complications were identified in our study, with no instances of mesh erosion, fistulas, or interventions for small bowel obstruction. Skin necrosis requiring reoperations was observed in three patients (5.7%), leading to permanent mesh excision in two cases (3.8%) without intraabdominal visceral involvement. Throughout the 12-month follow-up, 23 incidences (43.4%) of surgical site occurrences (SSOs) and surgical site occurrences requiring procedural intervention (SSOPI) were documented. Our findings suggest that posterior sheath supplementation with Vicryl mesh is a feasible approach to achieve posterior sheath closure in challenging abdominal wall reconstruction cases. Given the absence of notable mesh-related complications and a similar hernia recurrence rate to cases without posterior sheath supplementation, Vicryl mesh can be used to safely achieve posterior sheath closure in complex reconstructions with insufficient native tissue.

63. Concomitant Panniculectomy With Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (CP-AWR): A Propensity-Scored Matched Study Of Quality Improvement Over 21-years

63. Concomitant Panniculectomy With Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (CP-AWR): A Propensity-Scored Matched Study Of Quality Improvement Over 21-years

Anterior versus posterior component separation technique for advanced abdominal wall reconstruction: a proposed algorithm.

The precise indications for employing the anterior component separation technique (ACST) and the Transversus Abdominis Release (TAR) in abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) remain uncertain, despite the undeniable value of both techniques. The aim of this study was to analyze the anterior fascial closure rate, postoperative wound morbidity, and hernia recurrence rate for both procedures according to the algorithm used for complex AWR. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was carried out. Patients undergoing AWR for midline incisional hernias using either open or endoscopic ACST (E-ACST) or TAR between March 2013 and August 2022 were included. Patients with lateral hernia components were excluded. The surgical technique was depending on the pre- and intraoperative findings regarding hernia width and on the estimated traction to achieve anterior fascial closure (see algorithm). Initially, intermediate hernia defects ranging from approximately 10-14cm in width were repaired using E-ACST. However, as the study advanced, TAR became the preferred method for addressing these types of defects. Open ACST was consistently employed for defects wider than 14-15cm throughout the entire study duration. Outcomes of interest were anterior fascial closure, surgical site occurrences, and hernia recurrence rate. Follow-up was performed at 1month, 1year, and 2years. A total of 119 patients underwent AWR with CST: 63 patients (52.9%) were included in the ACST group and 56 patients (47.1%) in the TAR group. No significant differences were observed in patient and hernia characteristics. The use of botulinum toxin A (BTA) injection and preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP) was more frequently used in the ACST group (BTA 19.0%, PPP 15.9% versus BTA 5.4%, PPP 1.8% for TAR patients). Anterior fascial closure was achieved in 95.2% of the ACST group and 98.2% of the TAR group (p = 0.369). The TAR group demonstrated a significantly lower SSO rate at one month (44.3% versus 14.3%, p < 0.001) and required fewer procedural interventions (SSO-PI) (31.1% versus 8.9%, p = 0.003). The recurrence rate at one year was low and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (ACST 1.8% vs TAR 4.5%, p = 0.422). Following a proposed algorithm, the anterior fascial closure rate was high and similar for both techniques. As postoperative wound morbidity is significantly increased after ACST, our findings support recommending TAR for defects up to 14cm in width, while favoring open ACST for larger defects.

Concomitant Panniculectomy in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Narrative Review Focusing on Obese Patients.

The global prevalence of obesity continues to rise, contributing to an increased frequency of abdominal wall reconstruction procedures, particularly ventral hernia repairs, in individuals with elevated body mass indexes. Undertaking these operations in obese patients poses inherent challenges. This review focuses on the current literature in this area, with special attention to the impact of concomitant panniculectomy. Obese individuals undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction face elevated rates of wound healing complications and hernia recurrence. The inclusion of concurrent panniculectomy heightens the risk of surgical site occurrences but does not significantly influence hernia recurrence rates. While this combined approach can be executed in obese patients, caution is warranted, due to the higher risk of complications. Physicians should carefully balance and communicate the potential risks, especially regarding the increased likelihood of wound healing complications. Acknowledging these factors is crucial in shared decision making and ensuring optimal patient outcomes in the context of abdominal wall reconstruction and related procedures in the obese population.

Postoperative bleeding after complex abdominal wall reconstruction: A post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundAbdominal wall reconstruction requires extensive dissection of the abdominal wall, exposure of the retroperitoneum, and aggressive chemoprophylaxis to reduce the risk of thromboembolic complications. The need for early anticoagulation puts patients at risk for bleeding. We aimed to quantify postoperative blood loss, incidence of transfusion and reoperation, and associated risk factors in patients undergoing complex abdominal wall reconstruction. MethodsAll patients underwent a posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release and placement of retromuscular mesh for ventral hernias <20 cm wide and were enrolled in a clinical trial assessing the utility of trans-fascial mesh fixation. A post hoc analysis was performed to quantify postoperative hemoglobin drop, blood transfusions, and procedural interventions for ongoing bleeding during the first 30 postoperative days. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of transfusion. ResultsIn 325 patients, hemoglobin decreased by 3.61 (±1.58) g/dL postoperatively. Transfusion incidence was 9.5% (n = 31), and 3.1% (n = 10) required a surgical intervention for bleeding. Initiation of therapeutic anticoagulation postoperatively resulted in a higher likelihood of requiring surgical intervention for bleeding (odds ratio 10.4 [95% confidence interval 2.75–43.8], P < .01). Use of perioperative therapeutic anticoagulation was associated with higher rates of transfusion (odds ratio 3.51 [95% confidence interval 1.34–8.53], P < .01). Neither intraoperative blood loss nor operative times were associated with an increased transfusion requirement or need for operative intervention. ConclusionPatients undergoing transversus abdominis release are at a high risk of postoperative bleeding that can require transfusion and reoperation. Patients requiring postoperative therapeutic anticoagulation are at particularly high risk.

Short-term outcomes of minimally invasive techniques in posterior component separation for ventral hernia repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize various approaches in performing minimally invasive posterior component separation (MIS PCS) and ascertain their safety and short-term outcomes. A systematic literature searches of major databases were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines to identify studies that provided perioperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes of MIS PCS. Primary outcomes for this study were: surgical site events (SSE), surgical site occurrence requiring procedural intervention (SSOPI), and overall complication rates. A random-effect meta-analysis was conducted which allows computation of 95% CIs using simple approximation and incorporates inverse variance method with logit transformation of proportions. There were 14 studies that enrolled 850 participants that were included. The study identified rate of SSE, SSOPI, and overall rate of complications of all MIS TAR modifications to be 13.4%, 5.7%, and 19%, respectively. Our study provides important information on safety and short-term outcomes of MIS PCS. These data can be used as reference when counseling patients, calculating sample size for prospective trials, setting up targets for prospective audit of hernia centers. Standardization of reporting of preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing MIS PCS and strict audit of the procedure through introduction of prospective national and international registries can facilitate improvement of safety of the MIS complex abdominal wall reconstruction, and help in identifying the safest and most cost-effective modification.

A Ventral Hernia Management Pathway; A "Getting It Right First Time" approach to Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.

Abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is an emerging specialty, involving complex multi-stage operations in patients with high medical and surgical risk. At our hospital, we have developed a growing interest in AWR, with a commitment to improving outcomes through a regular complex hernia MDT. An MDT approach to these patients is increasingly recognized as the path forward in management to optimize patients and improve outcomes. We conducted a literature review and combined this with our experiential knowledge of managing these cases to create a pathway for the management of our abdominal wall patients. This was done under the auspices of GIRFT (Getting It Right First Time) as a quality improvement project at our hospital. We describe, in detail, our current AWR pathway, including the checklists and information documents we use with a stepwise evidence and experience-based approach to identifying the multiple factors associated with good outcomes. We explore the current literature and discuss our best practice pathway. In this emerging specialty, there is limited guidance on the management of these patients. Our pathway, the "Complex Hernia Bundle," currently provides guidance for our abdominal wall team and may well be one that could be adopted/adapted by other centers where challenging hernia cases are undertaken.

Combined Double-breasted Full-thickness Abdominal Flap Plication and Acellular Dermal Matrix in Prune-belly Syndrome Reconstruction.

Reconstruction of the abdominal wall in patients with prune-belly syndrome (PBS) following previous intra-abdominal procedures is a challenging problem with a high incidence of revision due to persistent bulging or herniation. The abdominal wall flaccidity not only produces a severe psychological and aesthetic discomfort for the patient but often determines functional disabilities, including inability to cough properly, impaired bowel and bladder function, and delay in posture and balance. The authors describe three cases of reconstruction of abdominal wall using a modified double-breasted abdominoplasty fascial plication with additional acellular dermal matrix interposition and review the literature for innovations in the use of abdominal repair for reconstruction of these difficult cases. Three children with PBS at a mean age of 7.3 years achieved successful reconstruction of the abdominal wall, using the modified double-breasted abdominoplasty fascial plication with acellular dermal matrix interposition. Patients underwent previous procedures, including orchiopexy in two patients and bilateral nephrectomy in one patient. No postoperative complications have been found, apart from superficial skin dehiscence along the abdominal incision treated conservatively in one child. At mean follow-up of 42 months (range 28-56 months), no patient presented incisional hernia, persistent or recurrent fascial laxity with abdominal bulging. All patients achieved significant aesthetic and functional improvements, including children's ability to cough, spontaneous gain of abdominal tonus, balance, and ambulation. Modification of the original vertical, two-layer plications of the deficient abdominal interposing biological mesh has the purpose of improving strength, aesthetics, and function of the abdominal wall in pediatric patients with PBS.

Assessing the Influence of Intraoperative Core Body Temperature on Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism after Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a dangerous postoperative complication after abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). Intraoperative core body temperature has been associated with thrombotic events in other surgical contexts. This study examines the effects of intraoperative temperature on VTE rate after AWR. A retrospective study was performed on AWR patients. Cohorts were defined by postoperative 30-day VTE. Intraoperative core body temperature was recorded as the minimum, maximum, and mean intraoperative temperatures. Study variables were analyzed with logistic regression and cutoff analysis to assess for association with VTE. In total, 344 patients met inclusion criteria. Fourteen patients were diagnosed with 30-day VTE for an incidence of 4.1%. The VTE cohort had a longer median inpatient stay (8 days versus 5 days, P < 0.001) and greater intraoperative change in peak inspiratory pressure (3 mm H2O versus 1 mm H2O, P = 0.01) than the non-VTE cohort. Operative duration [odds ratio (OR) = 1.32, P = 0.01], length of stay (OR = 1.07, P = 0.001), and intraoperative PIP difference (OR = 1.18, P = 0.045) were significantly associated with 30-day VTE on univariable regression. Immunocompromised status (OR = 4.1, P = 0.023; OR = 4.0, P = 0.025) and length of stay (OR = 1.1, P < 0.001; OR = 1.1, P < 0.001) were significant predictors of 30-day VTE on two multivariable regression models. No significant associations were found between temperature metrics and 30-day VTE on cutoff point or regression analysis. Intraoperative core body temperature did not associate with 30-day VTE after AWR, though operative duration, length of stay, immunocompromised status, and intraoperative PIP difference did. Surgeons should remain mindful of VTE risk after AWR, and future research is warranted to elucidate all contributing factors.

Hernia Recurrence and Complications After Abdominal Reconstruction With Reinforced Versus Nonreinforced Biologic Mesh.

Both biologic and permanent (synthetic) meshes are used for abdominal wall reconstruction. Biologic mesh has the advantage of eventual incorporation, which makes it generally preferred in contaminated patients compared with synthetic mesh (Ann Surg. 2013;257:991-996). However, synthetic mesh has been shown to have decreased long-term hernia recurrence despite increased complications (JAMA Surg. 2022;157:293-301). Ovitex (TelaBio, Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand) is a combined reinforced biologic mesh with a permanent Prolene suture weave that theoretically combines incorporation with a long-term strength component. We hypothesize that a reinforced biologic will have a similar complication profile but decreased long-term hernia recurrence. A single-center retrospective review was performed from January 2013 to January 2022. Baseline patient characteristics and outcomes including 90-day complications and recurrence were compared. Categorical and continuous variables were analyzed with χ2 and Wilcoxon rank sum tests, respectively. Predictors of postoperative complications and hernia recurrence were analyzed via univariate logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression with backward stepwise selection with a threshold of P < 0.2. Two hundred fifty-four patients underwent abdominal wall reconstruction biologic mesh (Strattice, Allergan; FlexHD, MTF Biologics; Alloderm, Allergan; Surgisis Gold, Cook Biotech; Ovitex, Telabio) with retrorectus (66.5%) or intraperitoneal (33.5%) mesh placement. Sixty-six of these used reinforced biologic mesh (Ovitex, TelaBio). Baseline characteristics were comparable including preoperative hernia size measured on CT. The mean follow-up time was 343 days. The majority of patients underwent component separation (80.3% bilateral, 11.4% unilateral, 8.3% none). On univariate analysis, reinforced biologic mesh did not impact 90-day complication rates (P = 0.391) or hernia recurrence rates (P = 0.349). On multivariate analysis, reinforced mesh had no impact on complication or recurrence rates (P > 0.2). A previous history of infected mesh was an independent risk factor for hernia recurrence (P = 0.019). Nonreinforced biologics were more likely to be used in instances of previous mesh infection (P = 0.025), bowel resection (P = 0.026), and concomitantly at the time of stoma takedown (P = 0.04). Reinforced biologics were more likely to be used with a history of previous hernia repair with recurrence not due to infection (P = 0.001). Body mass index >35 was an independent risk factor across both groups for 90-day complications (P = 0.028). Reinforced versus nonreinforced biologics have similar risk profile and recurrence rate when placed primary fascial repair achieved. In abdominal walls with history of infection, or abdominal wall reconstruction performed concomitantly at the time of stoma takedown or bowel resection/anastomosis, nonreinforced biologics were used more commonly with no difference in negative outcomes. This implies that they may have a role for use in contaminated surgical cases. Reinforced biologics were more commonly used as a mesh choice in the setting of previous hernia repair with recurrence with no difference in outcomes. This implies that the reinforced nature may be useful in situations where extra reinforcement of already traumatized abdominal wall tissue is needed. Retrorectus or intraperitoneal placement of any biologic mesh is acceptable and should be chosen based off surgeon comfort and anticipated cost saving of individual mesh brands. There may be a role for reinforced mesh in the setting of previous failed hernia repair with weakened fascia, as well as nonreinforced in contaminated cases.

An Analysis of the Efficacy of Multilayered Repair and Reconstruction Using Combined Tissue Pedicle Flaps for Abdominal Wall Defects in Adult Bladder Exstrophy Patients.

In this study, we conducted a retrospective analysis of cases involving adult classic bladder exstrophy (CBE) accompanied by the absence of the abdominal wall. Specifically, we focused on the utilization of multilayer flaps for reconstructive purposes. In addition, we aimed to share our clinical treatment experience pertaining to similar challenges, thereby providing valuable insights to complement the surgical management of this rare disease. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 12 adult patients diagnosed with CBE who underwent initial treatment between June 2013 and January 2020. All patients underwent multilayer reconstruction to address their abdominal wall defects. This involved utilizing shallow flaps derived from the superficial fascia of the abdomen and incorporating myofascial flaps composed of the anterior sheath of the rectus abdominis and aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle. The flap sizes ranged from 9 × 11 cm to 13 × 15 cm. Abdominal wall reconstruction in the 12 patients with CBE resulted in an absence of wound dehiscence recurrence, urinary obstruction, or urinary tract infection. All patients expressed satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome of their abdominal wall based on self-evaluation. They reported a successful resumption of normal life and work activities without experiencing any restrictions. The married patients expressed contentment with their sexual function. The utilization of a multilayered reconstruction technique involving multiple flaps in adults with congenital CBE allows for successful restoration of urinary function, as well as the attainment of sufficient abdominal wall strength to support daily life and work activities, while preserving sexual function. However, it is important to approach the evaluation of surgical outcomes with caution because of the rarity of this condition and the lack of objective assessment measures.