Retromuscular Preperitoneal Repair of Flank Hernias

Melissa S. Phillips, David M. Krpata, Jeffrey A. Blatnik, Michael J. Rosen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

42 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Flank hernias represent a challenging problem to reconstructive surgeons. Their anatomic proximity to the bony prominence and major neurovascular structures limits fixation options and restricts mesh overlap. We present our technique and outcomes of a preperitoneal repair with wide mesh overlap. Methods: This study is a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing open flank hernia repair with a retromuscular preperitoneal approach. Results: Between September 2007 and April 2011, 16 patients, mean age 55 years (range 34-80) and BMI 33 kg/m2 (range 26-46), underwent open flank hernia repair. Eight were recurrent hernias; six previously had mesh placed; nine were incarcerated. Mean hernia defect size was 232 cm2 (range 25-800). Mean operative time was 178 min (range 105-245). One intraoperative complication, ureteral injury in a transplant recipient, occurred and was primarily repaired without sequela. Two patients developed wound complications, one requiring superficial debridement and another requiring partial excision (<5 %) of the mesh with secondary healing. With a mean follow-up of 16.8 months (range 2-49), no recurrent hernias were noted. Conclusion: Open retromuscular preperitoneal repair of flank hernias with iliac bone fixation is technically feasible, allowing wide mesh overlap for a durable repair. This approach may offer advantages of treating abdominal wall laxity and repair of larger defects when compared to laparoscopic approaches.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1548-1553
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of Gastrointestinal Surgery
Volume16
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 1 2012

Keywords

  • Bone fixation
  • Flank hernia
  • Hernia repair
  • Lumbar hernia
  • Retromuscular repair

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