LAUSR

BACKGROUND We sought to evaluate the results of a new mesh sutured repair technique for closure of contaminated incisional hernias. METHODS 48 patients with contaminated hernias 5 cm wide or greater by CT scan were closed with mesh sutures. Surgical site occurrence, infections, and hernia recurrence were compared to similar patient series reported in the literature. RESULTS Of the 48 patients, 20 had clean-contaminated wounds, 16 had contaminated wounds, and 12 were infected. 69% of the patients underwent an anterior perforator sparing components release for hernias that averaged 10.5 cm transversely (range 5 cm-25 cm). SSO occurred in 27% of patients while SSI was 19%. There were no fistulas or delayed suture sinuses. With a mean follow-up of almost 12 months, 3 midline hernias recurred (6%). In these same patients, three parastomal hernias repaired with mesh sutures failed out of 4 attempted for a total failure rate of 13%. CONCLUSION Mesh sutured closure represents a simplified and effective surgical strategy for contaminated midline incisional hernia repair.