Background: In this long-term retrospective study, a laparoscopic technique was used for incisional hernia repair.
Methods: Over a 6-year period, we performed laparoscopic repairs with prosthetic mesh in 159 patients suffering from incisional hernia. Morbidity factors were noted and operative data were collected. In addition, early and long-term complications and recurrences were analyzed.
Results: There were no deaths as a result of the procedure. In 21 patients (13.8%), the operation was converted to an open procedure. Small bowel perforation occurred in three patients (1.9%). Mean hospital stay was 3.5 days. Early complications occurred in 61 patients (44%). The mean follow-up time was 49 months. There were no infections of the prosthetic mesh. Residual abdominal pain was reported in 31 patients (26%). Bowel obstructions requiring resection were found in two patients (1%), and hernia recurrence was observed in 19 patients (15.7%).
Conclusions: Laparoscopic herniorraphy is a promising technique with all the advantages of minimal-invasive surgery. Nevertheless, close attention needs to be paid to the choice of the hernia and mesh size and to the fixing of the mesh.