A Prospective Observational Study of Ventral Hernia

Area of Science:

• General Surgery
• Abdominal Wall Hernias
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Ventral hernias are a frequent surgical challenge, with incisional hernias being a common postsurgical complication requiring reoperation.
• Understanding the epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical presentation of various ventral hernias is crucial for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence of different ventral hernia types across sexes and age groups.
• To identify predisposing factors, clinical features, and common complications associated with ventral hernias.
• To analyze specific characteristics of incisional hernias, including their association with prior surgeries and anatomical location.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study involving 100 patients diagnosed with anterior abdominal wall hernias.
• Data collected through detailed history, clinical examination, and relevant investigations from September 2020 to February 2021.
• Statistical analysis performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24.0.

Main Results:

• Incisional hernia was the most prevalent type (43%), followed by umbilical, para-umbilical, and epigastric hernias.
• Females exhibited a higher incidence of ventral hernias overall, particularly incisional hernias, while epigastric hernias were more common in males.
• Obesity (34%) was the leading predisposing factor, associated with increased postoperative complications like wound infection and seroma. Incisional hernias were frequently linked to prior gynecological surgery and lower midline incisions, often occurring within three years of the initial operation.

Conclusions:

• Incisional hernias are the most common ventral hernias, with a higher prevalence in females, often following gynecological procedures.
• Epigastric and umbilical hernias are more common in males.
• Obesity and constipation are significant risk factors for ventral hernias. Lower midline incisions represent the most common site for incisional hernia development.