Simultaneous Complex Incisional Hernia Repair and Bariatric Surgery for Obese Patients: a Case Series of a Single-Center Early Experience

PURPOSE: Obesity is associated with recurrence of complex incisional hernia repair (CIHR). Bariatric procedure during CIHR can improve recurrence rates without increasing morbidity. This study aimed to describe our results after CIHR in patients with obesity, in which a simultaneous bariatric procedure was performed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective observational study including patients who underwent surgery between January 2014 and December 2018, with a complex incisional hernia (CIH) according to the Slater classification and body mass index (BMI) ≥35. CIHR was the main indication for surgery. We collected demographic data, comorbidities, CIH classification according to the European Hernia Society, type of bariatric procedure, postoperative morbidity using the Dindo-Clavien classification, and short-term results. Computed tomography (CT) is performed preoperatively. RESULTS: Ten patients were included in the study (7 women). The mean BMI was 43.63±4.91 kg/m(2). The size of the abdominal wall defect on CT was 8.86±3.93 cm. According to the European Hernia Society classification, all CIHs were W2 or higher. Prosthetic repair of the CIH was selected. Onlay, sublay, preperitoneal, and inlay mesh placement were performed twice each, as well as one modified component separation technique and one transversus abdominis release. Gastric leak after sleeve gastrectomy was the only major complication. Short-term outcomes included one recurrence, and % total weight loss was 24.04±8.03 after 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: The association of bariatric procedures during CIHR seems to be feasible, safe, and could be an option for surgical treatment in selected patients.