Incisional Hernia Rate Research Articles

Laparoscopic Hartmann's procedure for complicated diverticulitis is associated with lower superficial surgical site infections compared to open surgery with similar other outcomes: a NSQIP-based, propensity score matched analysis.

Open Hartmann's procedure has traditionally been the procedure of choice to treat complicated diverticulitis. We analyzed the ACS-NSQIP database to compare outcomes in patients who underwent emergent laparoscopic Hartmann's procedure (LHP) to those who had an open Hartmann's procedure (OHP). Data analyzed from 2015 to 2019 using ICD-10 codes. Patients were matched on several important covariates using a propensity score matching method (PSM). Patients were matched in a 4:1 ratio of controls to cases based on the propensity score. We identified 5026, of which 456 had LHP and 4570 had OHP. PSM analysis yielded 369 LHP and 1476 OHP patients. LHP had lower rates of superficial surgical site infection (SSSI) compared to OHP (2.44% vs. 5.89%, p = 0.007). LHP had similar post-operative outcomes compared to OHP, including 30-day mortality (5.15% vs. 2.98%, p = 0.060), organ space surgical site infection (OSSSI) (14.36% vs. 12.60%, p = 0.161), wound disruption (1.36% vs. 2.44%, p = 0.349), median LOS (8 vs. 9 days, p = 0.252), readmission within 30 days (11.92% vs. 8.67%, p = 0.176), rate of reoperation (6.0 vs. 6.5%, p = 0.897), and discharge to home (76% vs. 77%, p = 0.992). LHP had longer operative times compared to OHP (median 129 vs. 118min, p < 0.0001). The LHP is associated with lower rates of SSSI. However, it is not associated with lower rates of mortality, OSSSI, readmissions and reoperations within 30 days. Surgical times are longer in LHP. More studies are needed to determine whether LHP offers advantages in the long-term, particularly in rates of incisional hernia and colostomy closure.

The rate of ileostomy site incisional hernias: more common than we think?

Incisional hernias (IH) rates after diverting loop ileostomy reversal (DLI-R) have been reported up to 24%. We aimed to characterize the incidence rate and risk factors associated with DLI-R site IH formation within 1-year in a large patient cohort. A retrospective review at a single quaternary referral center hospital of adult patients who underwent DLI-R over a 5-year period and abdominal computerized tomography (CT) imaging performed within 1-year for any indication postoperatively was conducted. All CTs scans were independently reviewed by staff surgeons to determine the presence of a fascial defect at the DLI-R site. 2,196 patients underwent DLI-R; of these, 569 (25.9%) underwent CT imaging for any indication. Mean patient age, 54.8 (± 14.9), BMI 27.6kg/m2. 87 (15%) patients had a parastomal hernia at time of DLI-R. After median follow-up of 10 months, 203 patients (35.7%) had IH at the DLI-R site. Age (p = 0.14), sex (p = 0.39), race (p = 0.75), and smoking status (p = 0.82) weren't associated with IH after DLI-R. Comorbidities weren't significantly associated with IH following DLI-R. In univariate analysis, increased BMI (p < 0.001), presence of a parastomal hernia (p = 0.008), and suture type (p = 0.01) were associated with IH development. On multivariate analysis, BMI remained significant, and polyglyconate compared to polydioxanone suture were associated with higher rates of IH (p < 0.001). We observed that the rate of incisional hernias within 1-year of diverting ileostomy reversal was indeed common at 36%. Granted, a high percentage of the population was excluded due to heterogeneity in radiographic evaluation that could be mitigated in future prospective studies. Our study suggests that IH preventative strategies include weight loss for overweight and obese patients prior to DLI-R and that the optimal suture for DLI-R is polydioxanone.

SP6.10 - The Inevitable Way Ahead: “Small Bites” Closure For Extraction Sites In Colorectal Resections

Abstract Background “Small bites" technique is widely recognised for its benefits in reducing incisional hernias after laparotomy. In 2018, our institution introduced a standardised closure technique using 2-0 PDS sutures in a small bites fashion for laparotomies in colorectal surgery, in contrast to the previously favoured 'loop' PDS mass closure. Training on this technique was provided to surgical staff, although its adoption was not mandatory. This study aimed to review our local rate of incisional hernia at extraction sites following small bites vs mass closure. Method Our retrospective study included all adult patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic colorectal resections involving an extraction site between 2018 and 2022. The closure technique used and incidence of hernia was evaluated; all patients had a minimum of 2 years clinical or radiological follow up. Results Of the 403 resections over 5 years, 249 met the inclusion criteria (47% female; median age 69 years, range 31-89). Robotic procedures accounted for 21.7% (n=54), and 54.6% (n=136) were for T3 cancers, with 69.1% (n=172) classified as N0. Most cases, 77.5% (n=193), featured midline extraction sites, while 22.5% were off-midline (i.e. transverse). Mass closure was employed in 54.6% of cases (n=136), with 19.9% (n=27) developing confirmed extraction site hernias. Small bites closure was utilised in 45.4% of cases (n=113), with 5.3% (n=6) experiencing confirmed extraction site hernias (p&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusion Our data, the first of its kind, highlights a potential significant difference in extraction site hernia rates between mass closure (19.9%) and small bites closure (5.3% (p&amp;lt;0.05)). Moving forward, if done correctly, small bites closure should be considered the gold standard for extraction sites.

FP1.2 - Exploring Risk Factors and Incidence Patterns of Incisional Hernia following Colorectal Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract Aims This study aimed to determine the incidence rate of incisional hernias (IH) following colorectal resections and identify risk factors associated with their development. Methods A retrospective cohort of 942 patients undergoing colorectal surgical resection between January 2020 and March 2023 were analysed. Data collected encompassed patient demographics, medical history, operative details, and complications. Comparative statistical tests and logistic regression were employed. Results The incidence of IH was 10.2% during a median follow-up of 11 months (4,12). Multivariate analysis revealed significant risk factors, including increased BMI (OR 1.063; 95% CI 1.029 – 1.097, p &amp;lt; 0.001), neoadjuvant chemotherapy (OR 2.098; 95% CI 1.021 – 4.314, p = 0.044) and midline extraction site (OR 15.465; 95% CI 3.292 – 31.591, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusions With an IH incidence of 10.2%, this study identifies high BMI, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, midline extraction site, and laparotomy procedures as significant risk factors. Data also indicated a pfannenstiel incision is the preferred incision site during robotic surgery thereby minimising the risk of developing an incisional hernia and improving patient outcomes.

Incisional hernia after major pancreatic resection: long term risk assessment from two distinct sources – A large multi-institutional network and a single high-volume center

BackgroundPost-operative incisional hernia (IH) is a common complication following abdominal surgery. Data regarding IH after major pancreatic surgery are limited. We aim to evaluate the long-term risk of IH following major pancreatic resection. MethodsA dual-approach study: a large multi-institutional research network (RN) was investigated for IH incidence and risk factors in propensity-score matched survivors after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP), was complemented by a patient-reported questionnaire. ResultsRN analysis identified 22,113 patients that underwent pancreatic surgery. 11.0% of PD patients and 8.6% of DP patients developed IH (P < 0.0001). IH rates were higher with open surgery compared with minimally invasive approaches in PD (OR = 1.56, P = 0.03) and DP (OR = 1.94, P = 0.003). BMI>35 was found to correlate with increased IH rates for PD and DP (OR = 1.87, and OR = 1.86, respectively, P < 0.0001 each), as did postoperative intraabdominal infections (P < 0.0001). Patient-based survey of 104 patients, revealed that 16 patients (15%) reported post-operative IH during the follow-up period. BMI≥30, SSI and intra-abdominal abscesses were associated with increased IH risk (P < 0.05). ConclusionImproved survival after pancreatic resection has led to an increased prevalence of long-term surgical sequela. In this study, we demonstrate significant rates of IH among long-term survivors and assess potential risk factors.

Impact of small-bite (5 mm) fascial closure on the incidence of incisional hernia following open colorectal cancer surgery: randomized clinical trial.

Incisional hernia is frequently observed after open colorectal cancer surgery, and should be considered a serious short- and long-term health issue. The present study evaluated the efficacy of small-bite abdominal closure in reducing the incidence of incisional hernia in this patient group. An RCT was conducted between June 2019 and June 2022. A total of 173 patients who underwent open colorectal cancer surgery were assigned randomly to one of two groups to undergo fascial closure with either small bites (87) or conventional bites (86). The incisional hernia rate was accepted as the primary outcome, and surgical-site infection as the secondary outcome. The incisional hernia rates at 1 year were 7 and 27% in the small- and conventional-bite groups respectively (P < 0.001). This rate increased to 9 and 31% at the end of the second year (P < 0.001). Surgical-site infections occurred in 18% of the small-bite group and 31% of the conventional-bite group (P = 0.03). Compared with the conventional-bite group, the small-bite group had higher suture/wound length ratios (mean(s.d.) 5.18(0.84) versus 3.67(0.57); P < 0.001) and a longer fascial closure time 14.1(4.64) versus 12.9(2.39) min; P = 0.03). Small-bite closure with 5-mm tissue bites placed 5 mm apart reduced the incidence of incisional hernia and surgical-site infection after open colorectal cancer surgery.

Laparoscopic repair vs open repair for perforated peptic ulcers: Quality of life assessment

PurposeStudies reporting patient-centered outcomes, including quality of life and satisfaction, in perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) treatment are insufficient. This study was designed to assess the relative efficacy of laparoscopic repair (LR) as opposed to open surgical repair (OR) in the treatment of and its impact on quality of life. MethodsThis investigation performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent treatment for PPU at a secondary care hospital between January 2017 and April 2020. Patients were categorized into 2 separate groups according to the type of surgical procedure received: LR and OR. Comparisons were made based on a variety of factors, such as demographic data, intra- and postoperative metrics, pain control, patient contentment, and quality of life indicators. ResultsIn the analysis, there were no statistically significant differences in demographic or clinical characteristics between the LR (n = 35) and OR (n = 62) groups (P > .05). Conversely, the rates of incisional hernia and surgical site infection were significantly greater in the OR group (P < .05). Moreover, the LR exhibited benefits such as a shorter length of hospital stay (P < .05), more rapid resumption of a normal diet, and fewer surgical site infections—factors that contributed to a lower rate of overall postoperative complications. According to the quality-of-life questionnaire, the LR group exhibited significantly greater scores for physical function, role, pain, and general health by the 30th postoperative day (P = .003, P < .001, P = .006, and P = .001, respectively), and by the 1-year follow-up, the LR group showed substantial improvements in physical function, physical role, emotional role, pain and general health (P = .047, P = .004, P = .039, P = .001, and P = .021, respectively), indicating its effectiveness in patient recovery and quality of life enhancement after surgery. ConclusionThis study showed that LR could provide certain benefits in managing PPUs, such as reduced lengths of hospital stay and lower incidences of surgical site infections. Although LR reported promising directions in patient satisfaction and quality of life indicators, the limited duration of postoperative monitoring necessitates caution in broadly applying these results.

Effect of Specimen Extraction Site on Postoperative Incisional Hernia after Minimally Invasive Right Colectomy.

Incisional hernia (IH) is a known complication after colorectal surgery. Despite advances in minimally invasive surgery, colorectal surgery still requires extraction sites for specimen retrieval, increasing the likelihood of postoperative IH development. The objective of this study is to determine the effect of specimen extraction site on the rate of IH after minimally invasive right-sided colectomy for patients with available imaging. This is a retrospective multi-institutional cohort study at 2 large academic medical centers in the US. Adults who underwent right-sided minimally invasive colectomy from 2012 to 2020 with abdominal imaging available at least 1 year postoperatively were included in the analysis. The primary exposure was specimen extraction via a midline specimen extraction vs Pfannenstiel specimen extraction. The main outcome was the development of IH at least 1 year postoperatively as visualized on a CT scan. Of the 341 patients sampled, 194 (57%) had midline specimen extraction and 147 (43%) had a Pfannenstiel specimen extraction. Midline extraction patients were older (66 ± 15 vs 58 ± 16; p < 0.001) and had a higher rate of previous abdominal operation (99, 51% vs 55, 37%, p = 0.01). The rate of IH was higher in midline extraction at 25% (48) compared with Pfannenstiel extraction (0, 0%; p < 0.001). The average length of stay was higher in the midline extraction group at 5.1 ± 2.5 compared with 3.4 ± 3.1 days in the Pfannenstiel extraction group (p < 0.001). Midline extraction was associated with IH development (odds ratio 24.6; 95% CI 1.89 to 319.44; p = 0.004). Extracorporeal anastomosis was associated with a higher IH rate (odds ratio 25.8; 95% CI 2.10 to 325.71; p = 0.002). Patients who undergo Pfannenstiel specimen extraction have a lower risk of IH development compared with those who undergo midline specimen extraction.

522 A Snapshot Audit of Incisional Hernia Rates Following Colorectal Cancer Resection

Abstract Aim Incisional hernia is a common complication of colorectal surgery. Recent European Hernia Society guidelines recommend strategies such as small bites closure and off-midline incisions to reduce incisional hernia rates. We aimed to evaluate our centres incisional hernia rate and performance against these categories Method All patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer in 2020 were included. Operative details including incision location and closure method were collected. Post-operative CT scans were assessed and correlated with clinic letters to determine presence of incisional hernia. Patients were excluded if they underwent re-operation through the midline within 12 months, or if had no imaging after 12 months. Results 118 patients were included. The incisional hernia rate was 31.4% at a mean follow-up of 24.9 months. Large bites closure (Hughes or loop PDS, n=80) had a higher incisional hernia rate compared to small bite closure ( n=38) (35.0% vs 23.6%). Incisional hernia rates were 44.1% in laparotomy incisions, 37.2% in midline extraction sites, 8% in Pfannensteil extraction sites and 0% in transverse extraction sites. Overall, IH rates in midline incisions were 40.7%, compared to 6.3% in off-midline incisions. Conclusions Incisional Hernia rates remain high following colorectal cancer surgery in our institution. Small bites closure and off-midline incisions appear to reduce this risk, but use of these techniques remains low. Work is ongoing to identify and implement strategies to improve uptake of small bites and off-midline incisions.

Association between body mass index and short-term outcomes of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colon cancer

BackgroundLaparoscopic right hemicolectomy can be technically challenging in patients with increased body mass index, reportedly associated with higher surgical site infection (SSI) and incisional hernia rates. We aimed to assess the association between increased body mass index and short-term outcomes of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included patients with colon cancer who underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy between 2011 and 2021. Patients were managed with a standardized care protocol that comprised preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative measures and were divided according to body mass index—normal body mass index (18–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25–29.9 kg/m2), and obesity (≥30 kg/m2). Body mass index groups were compared for baseline characteristics and outcomes. The main outcome measures were operative time, hospital stay, 30-day complications, reoperation, number of harvested lymph nodes, and resection status. ResultsA total of 270 patients (50% male sex; mean age: 68.7 ± 13.5 years) were included—28.5% had normal body mass index, 47% were overweight, and 24.5% had obesity. Mean operative times in obese and overweight patients were significantly longer than patients with normal body mass index (172.1 and 168.8 versus 143.3 minutes, P = .01). Compared to normal body mass index, obesity was associated with significantly higher odds of incisional SSI (odds ratio: 9.29, P = .039). Body mass index had a significant positive correlation with operation time (r = 0.205, P = .004) and incisional SSI (r = 0.126, P = .04). Body mass index groups had similar hospital stays, 30-day complications and mortality, anastomotic leak, ileus, and reoperation. ConclusionPatients with increased body mass index had longer operative times and higher SSI rates, yet similar hospital stays and comparable 30-day complication rates, mortality, and reoperation to patients with normal body mass index.

Prophylactic slowly resorbable mesh in midline laparotomy to limit incisional hernia incidence: the prospective ‘Mesh Augmented Reinforcement of Abdominal Wall Suture Line (MARS)’ cohort study protocol

Background: Incisional hernia (IH) after abdominal surgery is a frequent surgical complication. Risk factors associated with IH are midline incisions, patients with an abdominal aneurysm of the aorta, and high BMI. Preventive measures include the use of the small-bites suture technique and/or placing a prophylactic mesh for reinforcement of the midline closure. Although recommended for high-risk patients, many surgeons are still reluctant to place a prophylactic mesh due to related complications. To counter these concerns, new synthetic resorbable meshes are being developed, such as the Deternia Self-Gripping Resorbable Mesh (“investigational device”). However, the effectiveness of this mesh in IH prevention has not been proved. Methods: The Mesh Augmented Reinforcement of Abdominal Wall Suture Line (MARS) study is a European, multicentre, prospective, single-arm study. A total of 120 patients scheduled for elective midline laparotomy, and for that reason at risk of developing IH, will be recruited in ~12 sites after informed consent. The sample size was estimated based on greater than 80% power, two-sided alpha of 0.05, an expected 12 month IH rate of 8% and a predefined performance goal of 18% (10% clinical margin). Midline incisions will be closed by the small bites closure technique with a minimum 4:1 suture-to-wound length ratio and reinforced by mesh placement in the retrorectus position. The primary outcome will be IH occurrence at 12-month postoperatively, evaluated both clinically and by ultrasound. Secondary outcomes will include mesh-related and postoperative complications, surgical characteristics, IH incidence at 2 and 3 years after surgery, and quality of life. Discussion: Currently, no conclusive evidence is available for synthetic resorbable meshes in a prophylactic setting to prevent IH. The MARS study will be the first prospective cohort study to investigate resorbable synthetic meshes and small bites closure to reduce IH incidence.

A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-REGRESSION OF FACTORS AFFECTING INCISIONAL HERNIA RATES IN MIDLINE INCISIONS OVER A 10-YEAR PERIOD

Abstract Aims The Incisional hernia (IH) rate after midline incisions was reported to be 12.8% in a systematic review of literature published in 2015. With updated guidance on abdominal wall closure techniques, the landscape of abdominal wall closure has changed. We aimed to update this literature to assess any change in the rates and any new identifiable risk factors for IH in midline incisions. Methods We undertook a systematic review of literature according to PRISMA guidelines and registered on PROSPERO. All papers reporting IH rates in midline incisions with primary suture closure between April 2013 — October 2022 were included. Papers with two or more arms suitable for inclusion were extracted independently. Results Sixty three papers (21 RCTs, 36 cohort studies and 6 case-control studies), comprising 18,126 patients were included. The mean IH rate was 16.8% at a weighted mean follow up of 31.3 months. Meta-regression identified two study level variables that correlated with an increase in IH rates (Use of radiology for diagnosis of IH and inclusion of patients undergoing a contaminated procedure) and one operative variable that corresponded with a decrease in rates (Small bites closure technique). Conclusions The Incisional hernia rate in midline incisions reported in the literature have increased over the last decade. A change in detection method and an increase in patient complexity may account for the majority of risk, suggesting standardisation of trial technique is essential in IH prevention trials. Small bites technique is associated with a significant reduction in IH rates, and future work should focus on strengthening the evidence base around this technique.

Small bite fascial closure technique reduces incisional hernia rates in gynecologic oncology patients

BackgroundThe potential for the technique of small bite fascial closure in mitigating incisional hernias in gynecologic oncology patients still needs to be investigated.ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of closure of small...

Prophylactic Mesh Reinforcement for Non-Midline Incisions: A Systematic Review.

Many abdominal-pelvic surgeries utilize incisions not along the linea alba, such as transverse, laparoscopic, ostomy reversal, or ostomy formation incisions. The prevalence of ventral incisional hernias (VIH) at these sites and the efficacy of prophylactic mesh in preventing VIH remains unclear. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from inception to September 2022. We included published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared prophylactic mesh reinforcement versus no mesh. The primary outcome was the incidence of VIH at postoperative follow-up equal to or greater than 24 months. Secondary outcomes included surgical site infection (SSI) and surgical site occurrence (SSO). Of 3186 screened articles, only 3 RCTs with at least an 80% 2-year follow-up, encompassing a total of 901 patients, were included for analysis of non-midline VIH. Fifteen additional RCTs were included for analysis of secondary outcomes. The rate of parastomal hernias with prophylactic mesh was 21%, while it ranged from 44%-64% in the control group. The rate of incisional hernia after ostomy reversal with prophylactic mesh was 10%, and 16% in the control group. No clear evidence of a difference was found in rates of SSI or SSO between groups. There is limited evidence on the role of prophylactic mesh in preventing non-midline VIH. More studies at low risk for bias are needed to elucidate the balance of the long-term risks and benefits of prophylactic mesh for non-midline incisions.

Prophylactic Biosynthetic Retrorectus Mesh Placement During Stoma Reversal Reduces the Rate of Stoma Site Incisional Hernia.

Stoma site incisional hernias (SSIHs) are associated with substantial long-term morbidity, and the rate can be as high as 30% to 40%. Recent efforts using prophylactic mesh reinforcement (PMR) to reduce the development of hernias have shown encouraging outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess the use of prophylactic biosynthetic mesh at the time of stoma reversal on the overall SSIH rate. This is an observational retrospective cohort study. A review of 101 consecutive patients who underwent PMR in the retrorectus plane from 2015 to 2020 was compared to 73 consecutive patients who underwent primary stoma closure without mesh from 2011 to 2014. The primary endpoint was the presence of SSIH on clinical examination or computed tomography after ostomy takedown. In total, 174 cases were analyzed with 101 patients in the treatment group (median follow-up 45.2 months) and 73 patients in the control group (median follow-up 43.2 months). There were no major differences in preoperative characteristics between the groups. Fourteen patients developed SSIHs with 1 (1.0%) in the treatment arm and 13 (17.8%) in the control arm (p = 0.001). The majority of stomas were loop ileostomies and end colostomies, and stoma type did not affect hernia rates. On univariate analysis, body mass index (p = 0.029) and chronic kidney disease < 3 (p = 0.003) were independent predictors of hernia formation, while mesh was significantly protective (p = 0.000057). PMR with biosynthetic mesh at the time of stoma reversal and closure is an effective procedure to reduce the incidence of SSIHs and does not seem to be associated with an increased risk of complications.

Three-year follow-up analysis of the short-stitch versus long-stitch technique for elective midline abdominal closure randomized-controlled (ESTOIH) trial

BackgroundClinical trials have shown reduced incisional hernia rates 1 year after elective median laparotomy closure using a short-stitch technique. With hernia development continuing beyond the first postoperative year, we aimed to compare incisional hernias 3 years after midline closure using short or long stitches in patients from the ESTOIH trial.MethodsThe ESTOIH trial was a prospective, multicenter, parallel-group, double-blind, randomized-controlled study of primary elective midline closure. Patients were randomized to fascia closure using a short- or long-stitch technique with a poly-4-hydroxybutyrate-based suture. A predefined 3-year follow-up analysis was performed with the radiological imaging-verified incisional hernia rate as the primary endpoint.ResultsThe 3-year intention-to-treat follow-up cohort consisted of 414 patients (210 short-stitch and 204 long-stitch technique) for analysis. Compared with 1 year postoperatively, incisional hernias increased from 4.83% (20/414 patients) to 9.02% (36/399 patients, p = 0.0183). The difference between the treatment groups at 3 years (short vs. long stitches, 15/198 patients (7.58%) vs. 21/201 (10.45%)) was not significant (OR, 1.4233; 95% CI [0.7112–2.8485]; p = 0.31).ConclusionHernia rates increased significantly between one and 3 years postoperatively. The short-stitch technique using a poly-4-hydroxybutyrate-based suture is safe in the long term, while no significant advantage was found at 3 years postoperatively compared with the standard long-stitch technique.Trial registryNCT01965249, registered on 18 October 2013.

Incisional hernias following robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy: does the extraction site matter?

The incidence of incisional hernia (IH) following robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) varies widely within the literature (0.4-9.7%). Whilst small hernias may go unnoticed, the potential exists for bowel strangulation and subsequent emergency surgery. We suggest that the extraction site may influence the rate of IH. A retrospective chart review of a single surgeon RALP series was undertaken. One hundred charts were sampled, of which 69 had sufficient data to be analysed. Prior to July 2017, specimen extraction had been via the supra-umbilical port site. After this time, specimens were extracted via a Pfannenstiel incision. Of the 69 patients, 24 underwent RALP prior to July 2017. Three patients developed IH at the supra-umbilical port extended for extraction site in the pre-2017 group and three patients developed IH at the supra-umbilical port (not extraction) site in the post-2017 group. The rate of IH was almost double in the pre-July 2017 group (12.5% vs. 6.7%). No patient developed an incisional hernia at the Pfannenstiel site in the post-2017 group. In our series, no patient developed a hernia at the Pfannenstiel site. This is in keeping with the reported < 1% IH rate following Pfannenstiel specimen extraction. Given that incisional hernias are a known complication of robotic surgery, thought should be given to changing the site of specimen extraction site to lower the rate of incisional hernias and the morbidity associated with such.

Incidence of incisional hernias and cosmetic outcome after laparoscopic single-incision cholecystectomy: a long-term follow-up cohort study of 125 patients.

Studies have evaluated long-term occurrence of incisional hernia, cosmesis, and postoperative pain after single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC). However, the follow-up periods were rarely defined longer than 12 months. The authors performed a cohort study to evaluate hernia rate and cosmesis in a prolonged follow-up period. All patients that underwent SILC at the University Hospital Brandenburg an der Havel Hospital between December 2008 and November 2014 were evaluated in terms of postoperative complications, and a follow-up telephone interview including the existence of hernias and chronic pain was performed. Cosmesis and the overall satisfaction of the scar was measured by POSAS (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale). In total 125 patients underwent SILC. The single-incision approach was completed in 94.4%, an additional trocar was necessary in 3.2% (n=4) and a conversion to 4 trocar cholecystectomy was required in 2.4% (n=3). Intraoperative complications occurred in 0.8% and postoperative complication in 12.8% of all patients. Follow-up telephone interview was performed in 49.6% of 125 patients. The mean follow-up period was 138.9 months (11.6 years). Overall, in 3.6%, an incisional hernia was diagnosed. A total of 3.6% reported pain in the region of the umbilicus with a mean VAS (visual analog scale) of 2/10. The mean POSAS score was 7.8. Overall, 82.3% of this cohort rate their satisfaction of the scar with a 1/7, resembling the best possible result of the scar. The present study demonstrates that SILC is a safe alternative in terms of incisional hernia rate and complications with a high satisfaction of the scar even after one decade after surgery. In comparison to shorter follow-up period and multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy, our result is comparable.

A Comparison of a Small-Stitch Closure With a Standard Closure in Midline Laparotomy Incisions: A Prospective Comparative Study.

Introduction Midline incision provides a rapid and thorough approach to the abdominal cavity and, therefore, is widely employed in both emergency and elective procedures. However, midline laparotomy is associated with many post-operative complications likewound dehiscence, incisional hernia, fistula formation, and surgical site infection (SSI). The purpose of the study is to comparethe complications that occurred post-operativelyin associationwith thelong and smallbite suture techniques for midline laparotomy incisions. Methodology A prospective comparative study was carried out among 90 cases of midline laparotomies for 18 months (January 2021 to June 2022). The participants were categorizedinto two groups: (1) Group A, which included 45 patients, underwent small-suture abdominal fascia closure, and (2) Group B, which consisted of the remaining45 patients, underwent large-suture abdominal midline wound closure. Patients were followed up in the hospital till the day of discharge and in the outpatient department (visit 1, within one month of surgery) for pain, wound dehiscence, and surgical site infection. Patients were called for visit 2 (six months post-surgery) and incisional hernia rates were assessed. Results On the numerical pain rating scale, the mean score was higher in Group B, that is, 4.1 than in Group A, which was 3.5. Wound dehiscence and incisional hernia rates were higher among Group B cases. The majority of SSIs were noted in Group B with statistically significant results. Conclusion Despite the lack of randomization,the results demonstrated in this study support the use of small bite sutures in comparison to long bite sutures for laparotomy closure.

Educating Residents in Abdominal Wall Closure: An Overview.

Background and Aims: Incisional hernia prevention has become an important concept for surgeons operating on the abdominal wall. Several techniques have been proposed to help decrease incisional hernia formation with suture closure of the abdominal wall being one of the cornerstones. Technical details that have been reported to decrease incisional hernia rates include achieving a 4:1 Suture to Wound length ratio and the use of a small bites technique. Despite evidence to support many of these techniques there appears to be a gap in practice patterns amongst practicing surgeons. Introducing and promoting these principles in surgical residency may help to close this gap. This paper reviews our experience with surgical training for abdominal wall closures at our institution. Materials and Methods: Programs and projects related to abdominal wall closure were reviewed from our institution from 2010-Present. Type of project, intervention, and impact on education was evaluated and summarized. Results: Seven projects were identified relating to surgical training and abdominal wall closure. Three projects dealt with skills training using an abdominal wall simulation model and related to suturing techniques. Two projects were clinical studies focused on suture to wound length ratios and improving outcomes with this variable in a residency training program. Two projects dealt with models relating to abdominal wall closure and education. Conclusion: Implementation of educational programs in surgical residency programs can lead to improvements in technique and knowledge around abdominal wall closure and help in research endeavors.