A novel reconstruction method for giant incisional hernia: Hybrid laparoscopic technique

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Laparoscopic reconstruction of ventral hernia is a popular technique today. Patients with large defects have various difficulties of laparoscopic approach. In this study, we aimed to present a new reconstruction technique that combines laparoscopic and open approach in giant incisional hernias. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2006 and August 2012, 28 patients who were operated consequently for incisional hernia with defect size over 10 cm included in this study and separated into two groups. Group 1 (n = 12) identifies patients operated with standard laparoscopic approach, whereas group 2 (n = 16) labels laparoscopic technique combined with open approach. Patients were evaluated in terms of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), mean operation time, length of hospital stay, surgical site infection (SSI) and recurrence rate. RESULTS: There are 12 patients in group 1 and 16 patients in group 2. Mean length of hospital stay and SSI rates are similar in both groups. Postoperative seroma formation was observed in six patients for group 1 and in only 1 patient for group 2. Group 1 had 1 patient who suffered from recurrence where group 2 had no recurrence. DISCUSSION: Laparoscopic technique combined with open approach may safely be used as an alternative method for reconstruction of giant incisional hernias.