Open incisional hernia repair

What is an incisional hernia?

An incisional hernia is a hernia at the site of a prior surgical incision. Such hernias happen following postsurgical wound healing issues, such as infections or extra stress on the area during the healing period.

Managing and repairing smaller hernias

Hernias come in all shapes and sizes. Smaller ones can often be managed with relatively simple, laparoscopic procedures which don't require large incisions. Others, however, are more complicated. They are often recurrent and may involve either a wound related to a prior surgery or a significant amount of extra skin and fat. 

What is an open incisional hernia repair?

An open incisional hernia repair typically begins with the surgical removal of skin and fat, as well as any present wound. This may involve both a transverse incision across the lower abdomen and a vertical incision in the middle of the abdomen. By removing the excess skin and fat, a clearer understanding may be obtained for which tissues are healthy and likely to heal, and which may represent a scar which may heal as well.

Process of an open incisional hernia repair

An open hernia repair involves making an incision over the site of the hernia. Steps in this procedure involve pushing the contents of the hernia back inside the abdominal cavity, closing the hernia with sutures, and placing a mesh to reinforce the area. This approach is used in patients with a history of multiple previous hernia repairs, a history of multiple previous abdominal surgeries, and patients with large hernias.