Abdominal wall reconstruction: a case series of ventral hernia repair using the component separation technique with biologic mesh

BackgroundSixty-eight consecutive patients from October 2008 until February 2012 were selected for this retrospective review.MethodsA midline fascial closure with component separation was completed using biologic mesh onlay in all cases. Recurrence rates of the hernias, complication rates, patient satisfaction, and time to return to work/normal activities were investigated.ResultsThe recurrence rate was 1.5% (n = 65) with ongoing follow-ups (mean = 20 months). The average age was 57 years, and the average body mass index was 36 kg/m2 (range 22 to 60). The average hernia defect was 20 cm (range 12 to 26) transversely. Wound infection and/or breakdown occurred in 32%, and seroma formation occurred in 9% of patients. Patient satisfaction was 3.63 of 4. The average time to return to work/normal activities was 16 weeks (range 1 to 76 weeks).ConclusionsLarge complex ventral hernias can be reliably repaired using the component separation technique. The short-term recurrence rate is significantly reduced in this case series using a biologic mesh onlay.