Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open repair of incisional hernia

ObjectiveThe aim was to compare between laparoscopic and open repair of incisional hernia regarding the technique and outcome.BackgroundOne of the most common complications of laparotomy is incisional hernia, with an estimated incidence of 3–20% after laparotomy.Materials and methodsThis clinical trial was conducted on 100 patients presented with ventral incisional hernia to Menoufia University Hospital, General Surgery Department, during the period from June 2015 to August 2017. They were randomly distributed into two groups: 50 cases had open repair and 50 cases had laparoscopic repair. Operative and postoperative details were recorded and compared. Follow-up was conducted for 1 year after surgery.ResultsThe mean postoperative hospital stay was longer in the open group than laparoscopic group (2.72 ± 0.68 vs. 1.92 ± 0.69 days, P < 0.001). The total postoperative complications were more in the open group than laparoscopic group (23 vs. 13, P = 0.03). The mean operative time of laparoscopic repair was significant statistically longer than the open repair (151.9 ± 20.07 vs. 106.6 ± 13.77 min, P < 0.001). Short-term postoperative pain was more intense in the open repair group than the laparoscopic group (4.72 ± 1.10 vs. 3.78 ± 1.30, P < 0.001).ConclusionLaparoscopic incisional hernia repair is a safe alternative to open incisional hernia repair. We recommend increased application of laparoscopic repair of incisional hernia and a large multicenter randomized trial with long follow-up to measure the long-term results.