Laparoscopic verses open ventral mesh hernia repair

Background and Objectives: The contemporary results of open ventral hernia repair are not that satisfactory because of high rate of wound complications, recurrence rates and increased morbidity. Laparoscopic repair of ventral and incisional hernias (LIVH) can be accomplished in a simple, reproducible manner while dramatically lowering recurrence rates and morbidity. The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic verses open ventral hernia repair. Materials and Methods: It was arandomized prospective study conducted over 1 and 1/2 years. A total of 80 patients were randomized in two groups, laparoscopic and open (n =40 in each). Polypropylene mesh and composix mesh was used in both the groups. Post-operative pain, hospital stay, return to normal activity and post-operative complications were compared in two groups. Results: Post-operative pain, hospital stay, return to normal activity and post-operative complications were less in laparoscopic repair as compared to open repair. Seroma formation occurred in 10 patients in laparoscopic group. Wound infection/ mesh infection was seen in2 patients in open group. There was no conversion from laparoscopic repair to open repair in our series. Conclusions: Laparoscopy is safe and effective in the management of ventral hernia. Laparoscopy does not compromise the basic principles of surgery for ventral/incisional hernia and provides all advantages of minimal access surgery in terms of less pain, better cosmesis, low rate of complications, lesser hospital stay, low risk of recurrence rate and early return to routine activity as compared to open technique.