Patient reported outcome following incisional hernia repair: A survey on 163 patients at two maximum care hospitals. (August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Paasch, Christoph; Lorenz, Eric; Anders, Stefan; De Santo, Gianluca; Boettge, Katherina; Gauger, Ulrich; Croner, Roland; Strik, Martin W.
• Is Part Of: Annals of medicine and surgery. Volume 44(2019)
• Page Start: 5
• Page End: 12
• Publication Date: 2019-08
• Subjects: Abdominal binder -- Open incisional hernia repair -- Physical rest -- Postoperative pain -- Return to work; Surgery -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; General Surgery -- Periodicals; Education, Medical -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 617
• DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2019.06.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2049-0801

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Incisional hernias of the abdominal wall are frequent complications after laparotomy (9–20%) and often need incisional hernia repair (IHR). In order to ensure wound healing and to therefore prevent postoperative short and long term morbidity carrying an abdominal binder (AB) and physical rest is frequently advised. However, there is a lack of evidence concerning clinical effects regarding these recommendations. Hence, we conducted a survey to analyze the patient reported outcome following IHR. Methods: From December 2017 to May 2018, we conducted a survey among 270 patients who underwent open and laparoscopic IHR at two maximum care hospitals. They were interviewed about their type of operation, postoperative treatment, recommendations, and outcome. Results: 163 patients replied to the questionnaire. The average age was 63.2 ± 12 years. 74 patients were female and 89 were male. 32.6% of the patients reported an AB-induced immobility and 71.2% reported that the AB reduced pain after IHR. A prolonged period of physical rest and the use of an AB had no statistical significance on postoperative morbidity. Conclusions: Due to our findings we assume that the AB may induce immobility and reduce postoperative pain. A prolonged period of physical rest and wearing an AB does not seem to have an impact on the postoperative outcome following IHR. Therefore, a shortened duration of physical rest and wearing an AB following IHR should be taken under consideration. To reveal more evidence on this topic further clinical trials are essential. Highlights: The use of an abdominal binder may reduce pain following incisional hernia repair. On third of the questioned patients reported, that the AB induced immobility. A prolonged period of physical rest and carrying an abdominal binder may not prevent recurrences.