A novel technique for the repair of lumbar hernias after iliac crest bone harvest
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Updated: Aug 23, 2026
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Published on: July 15, 2021
Lane C Patten1, Samir S Awad, David H Berger
1Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Surgical Services VA 112, 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Background:
Lumbar hernia is a clinical entity that has been increasingly more common since the advent of iliac bone harvest for bone grafting procedures. These can be very technically difficult to repair and have a high recurrence rate.
Methods:
Using a corkscrew anchor suture device, we have developed a novel and simple way to repair these hernias with no recurrence. Here we present our experience with the corkscrew suture anchor device.
Results:
This technique has been performed in 2 patients at our institution, and in both cases, the hernia was successfully repaired. Our 1-year follow-up on this technique demonstrates intact repairs with no sign of recurrence.
Conclusions:
The placement of corkscrew suture anchors along the iliac crest remnant is a simple technique requiring minimal bony exposure. The anchors facilitate the long-term fixation of mesh despite the lack of fascia in this area. We conclude that this is a simple and effective approach for repair of these challenging hernias.
