Recurrences after laparoscopic ventral hernia repair: results and critical review

We describe the whole cohort of patients operated on laparoscopically for ventral hernias at our institution. Information on early results, complications, and long-term follow-up was collected prospectively. Of 90 operations attempted, five (5.8%) required conversion. Of the remaining 85 patients, 65 (76%) had an incisional hernia, while 20 (24%) had primary defects. Three trocars were routinely employed (Hasson and two 5-mm). The prosthetic mesh used was ePTFE inserted through the first trocar and fixed using helicoidal staplers. Patients were periodically followed in the outpatient clinic for at least 12 months postoperatively and contacted at the time of this review. Mean operative time was 101 min. We had three small bowel injuries repaired laparoscopically. Postoperative pain was limited. Bowel movements, deambulation, and discharge were prompt. We had six (7%) urinary retentions, eight (9%) seromas, three (3.5%) cases of pneumonia, two (2%) cases of postoperative vomiting, and one (1%) prolonged ileus, which resolved spontaneously on postoperative day 2. Mean postoperative stay was 4 days. One patient was readmitted after 4 weeks with incomplete obstruction, resolved conservatively. There were three recurrences (3.5%), which developed within 1 year of the operation, and a trocar-site herniation (1%). The technique appears safe and efficacious.