Our Summary

This research paper investigates the best surgical methods for treating ventral hernias. A ventral hernia is a bulge of tissues through an opening or weakness in the muscles of the abdomen. It can cause pain, impact the function of the affected area, increase in size over time, and even lead to serious medical complications. The only known treatment for a ventral hernia is surgery.

The researchers looked at various databases to find studies that had been done on the use of mesh reinforcement in hernia repair surgery. They were trying to figure out how effective this method was, and also how likely it was to cause surgical site infections.

After looking through more than 10,000 studies, they found 25 that met their criteria. The data showed that using mesh reinforcement in surgery can actually decrease the chances of the hernia coming back. However, it also increased the risk of surgical site infections.

They also found that the placement of the mesh matters. If the mesh is placed in the ‘sublay’ position, which is below the muscle layer, it could reduce the risk of both the hernia recurring and surgical site infections.

So, the conclusion is that using mesh reinforcement for ventral hernia repairs can be beneficial, especially if the mesh is placed in the ‘sublay’ position. But, they also acknowledge that more research is needed to confirm this.

FAQs

  1. What is a ventral hernia and how is it treated?
  2. What is mesh reinforcement in hernia repair surgery and how effective is it?
  3. Does the placement of the mesh in hernia repair surgery affect the outcome and risk of infection?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing hernia repair surgery to ask their surgeon about the use of mesh reinforcement and inquire about the placement of the mesh in the ‘sublay’ position. This could potentially reduce the risk of the hernia recurring and lower the chances of developing surgical site infections. It’s always important to have an open and honest conversation with your healthcare provider about the best options for your specific situation.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hernia repair surgery are those who are experiencing symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or a visible bulge in the abdomen. Additionally, patients who have a hernia that is causing complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation may also require surgical intervention.

It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and medical history with their healthcare provider to determine if hernia repair surgery is the best course of action for them. Ultimately, the decision to undergo surgery should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the individual patient’s health status and overall well-being.

Timeline

Before hernia repair:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and a noticeable bulge in the abdomen
  • Consultation with a doctor to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative preparation, which may include tests and evaluations to ensure the patient is fit for surgery

After hernia repair:

  • Surgery is performed to repair the hernia, typically using mesh reinforcement
  • Recovery period, which may involve pain management, limited physical activity, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon
  • Possible complications such as surgical site infections, which may require additional treatment
  • Long-term follow-up to monitor the success of the surgery and address any recurring issues or complications

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hernia repair include:

  1. What are the different surgical options available for hernia repair?
  2. Is mesh reinforcement necessary for my hernia repair surgery?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hernia repair surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery time after hernia repair surgery?
  5. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or restrictions after surgery?
  6. What is the success rate of hernia repair surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies for hernias?
  8. How many hernia repair surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  9. What should I expect during the surgery and post-operative care?
  10. How can I prevent future hernias from occurring after surgery?

Reference

Authors: Holihan JL, Hannon C, Goodenough C, Flores-Gonzalez JR, Itani KM, Olavarria O, Mo J, Ko TC, Kao LS, Liang MK. Journal: Surg Infect (Larchmt). 2017 Aug/Sep;18(6):647-658. doi: 10.1089/sur.2017.029. Epub 2017 May 30. PMID: 28557648