[Standardisation of surgical mesh implantation in incisional hernia]

PURPOSE: To describe the relation between risk factors, postoperative complications, recurrence rates and satisfaction before and after the introduction of Stoppas technique in patients operated for incisional hernia with implantation of a surgical mesh.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The records of 27 patients undergoing an incisional hernia repair using a surgical mesh in the period 1.1.1993-30.6.1998 were reviewed, and 18 living patients were examined.

RESULTS: Among the eight patients operated using Stoppas technique there were no postoperative complications but one recurrence, and among the ten patients operated without using a specific standard technique there were five with complications and four with recurrence.

CONCLUSION: Operation for incisional hernia using implantation of a surgical mesh seems to require a standard surgical technique and care must be taken in patients with risk factors.