Long-term Outcome of Incisional Hernia Repairs Using the Erlangen Inlay Onlay Mesh (EIOM) Technique

The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term outcome of incisional hernias treated with the Erlangen Inlay Onlay Mesh (EIOM) repair technique, taking into account recurrence, complications, and patient satisfaction.

A total of 163 patients treated in the surgical department of Erlangen university hospital with the EIOM repair between the years 1996 and 2009 were evaluated retrospectively.

The collected data revealed a mean follow-up period of 70 (18-190) months. Incisional hernia recurrence after EIOM repair was observed in 6 (3.7%) patients after a mean observation period of 70 mo (18-190) postoperatively. The recurrence rate increased significantly when the body mass index (BMI) was higher than 32 kg/m². Here, a recurrence rate of 10.5% for BMI> 32 versus 1.7% with BMI ≤32 was reported. There were no significant differences in hernia recurrence if haven been operated by an assistant under supervision or by a consultant. In regard to patient satisfaction, 91% of patients included in this study were satisfied with the surgical outcome.

The EIOM procedure is a safe surgical technique that can be used for the treatment of all, also for giant incisional abdominal wall hernias regardless of the size, BMI, or position of the incisional hernia.