Mesh-reinforced reconstruction after abdominal wall desmoid tumor resection: a retrospective analysis of 16 cases

Managing the defect after abdominal wall desmoid tumor resection is challenging due to the wide excision required. This report aims to review our institutional experience with mesh-reinforced reconstruction following desmoid tumor resection in the abdominal wall.

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent abdominal wall desmoid tumor resection with mesh-reinforced reconstruction between April 2014 and January 2019. Patient records were analyzed to collect data on demographic characteristics, surgical procedures, and complications.

Sixteen eligible patients were identified, including one patient who underwent simultaneous resection of affected intra-abdominal organs. The mean size of the abdominal wall defect was 88.1 ± 71.6 cm², and the mean mesh size was 160.3 ± 56.5 cm². The mean operative time was 87.5 ± 41.4 min, the mean hospital stay was 15.7 ± 6.0 days, and the mean follow-up period was 83.8 ± 18.0 months. Complications included seroma (n = 1) and abnormal sensation (n = 2). Tumor recurrence was observed in 1 patient, who died due to cancer progression (lung cancer). No surgical site infections or mesh infections were observed. Additionally, no patients developed ventral hernias or abdominal bulging.

Mesh-reinforced reconstruction is a feasible and effective approach for patients requiring abdominal wall desmoid tumor resection.