J Scott Roth, Dennis F Diaz, Margaret Plymale and Daniel L Davenport
Purpose: The component separation technique was initially described as an autologous tissue transfer without biomaterials. This study evaluates the results of component separation hernia with and without reinforcing mesh.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 126 consecutive component separation hernia repairs at a single institution between 2004 and 2009 and compared preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes.
Results: The recurrence rate was 20.6% and wound complications occurred in 46%. Body mass index was associated with postoperative wound complications (non-obese 31.3%, overweight 31.8%, obesity/morbid obesity 51%, superobese 69%) but did not impact hernia recurrence rates (non-obese 7%; overweight 12.5%; obesity/morbid obesity 28.8%, super obese, 23.2%; p=0.207). Gender, diabetes, hypertension, pulmonary disease, and smoking status did not impact recurrence rate or wound complications. Prior hernia repairs did not impact recurrence rates (none, 17%; 1, 26.7%, 2+, 23.1%; p=0.589). 58 underwent repair without mesh, 55 with biologic mesh, and 13 with synthetic mesh. There were no differences in recurrences between groups.
Conclusion: Obesity significantly increases wound complications following CST hernia repair. Recurrence rates following primary and recurrent hernia repairs are similar. The adjunct of reinforcing mesh does not affect recurrence rates following CST.