Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 22, 2026
Application of a New Mesh Fixation Method in Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair
Published on: December 23, 2022
Delayed onset seroma formation 'opting out' at 5 years after ventral incisional hernia repair
Mohamed Mohamed1, Adel Elmoghrabi1, William Reid Shepard1
1Department of Trauma Services, Hurley Medical Center, Flint, Michigan, USA.
Abstract:
We present a case of delayed onset seroma formation presenting 5 years after ventral incisional hernia repair (VIHR) with mesh. The patient presented with several months of progressive abdominal fullness and eventual spontaneous drainage from a prior abdominal surgical incision site. Surgical drainage was performed with evolvement of mesh infection. After 5 months of conservative management, the patient remained symptomatic and continued to show evidence of infection. Subsequently, she underwent mesh explantation and definitive repair with complex abdominal wall reconstruction. To the best of our knowledge, this case represents the longest delay in the onset of seroma formation post-VIHR, reported in the literature.
Insights
Delayed seroma formation, a rare complication, occurred 5 years after ventral incisional hernia repair (VIHR) with mesh. This case highlights the potential for late-onset mesh infection and the need for complex abdominal wall reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Abdominal surgery
- Hernia repair
- Surgical complications
Background:
- Ventral incisional hernia repair (VIHR) often involves mesh placement.
- Seroma formation is a known complication, but typically occurs earlier post-operatively.
Observation:
- A patient developed delayed seroma 5 years post-VIHR, presenting with abdominal fullness and spontaneous drainage.
- The seroma evolved into a mesh infection despite initial conservative management.
Findings:
- The case represents the longest reported delay in seroma formation after VIHR.
- Mesh explantation and complex abdominal wall reconstruction were required for definitive treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of long-term monitoring for delayed complications after VIHR.
- It highlights the challenges in managing late-onset mesh infections and the need for advanced surgical techniques.
