Ventral Hernia Repair

What Is Ventral Hernia Repair?

A surgical procedure that fixes weaknesses or openings in the abdominal wall, allowing internal tissues to bulge outward. These hernias often develop at previous surgical sites (incisional hernias) or spontaneously from strain, pregnancy, or trauma.

Surgical approaches:

• Open repair: Single incision over the hernia; surgeon repositions tissue and reinforces the wall with mesh.
• Laparoscopic/robotic repair: 3-4 small incisions with camera guidance; mesh placed internally. Results in less pain and faster recovery.
• Component separation: For large or multiple hernias; rebuilds muscle layers for durable closure.

Typical duration is 1-3 hours depending on complexity.

Why It's Done

The procedure prevents bowel incarceration or strangulation (medical emergencies). Studies indicate 30-50% of patients with small, asymptomatic hernias develop pain or obstruction within several years.

Additional benefits include:

• Improved core stability
• Cosmetic restoration
• Relief from pain and discomfort

Risks & Complications

Overall complication rates range from 10-25%. Mortality is less than 0.5% for elective cases but up to 5% for emergency repairs.

• Recurrence: 5-15% (with mesh); 20-40% (without mesh)
• Seroma (fluid collection): 10-20%
• Wound infection: 5-10%
• Mesh infection: 1-3%
• Bleeding/hematoma: 1-3%
• Chronic pain/stiffness: 5-15%
• Bowel injury/obstruction: 1-2%

Recovery Timeline

• Hospital stay: 1-2 days (laparoscopic); 3-5 days (open/complex)
• Lifting restrictions: Avoid lifting more than 10-15 lbs for 4-6 weeks
• Return to desk work: 2-3 weeks (laparoscopic); 4-6 weeks (open)
• Full activity: 6-12 weeks

Surgeon Specialists

General Surgeons and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Specialists perform ventral hernia repairs. High-volume centers with multidisciplinary teams yield optimal outcomes.