Comparison of repair techniques for major incisional hernias.

BACKGROUND: Multiple techniques exist for repair of incisional hernias. Laparoscopic ventral hernia repairs as well as sliding myofascial rectus flap ventral hernia repairs (the separation of parts technique) have received recent attention for low recurrence and low complication rates. These procedures are diametrically opposed solutions to the same clinical problem.

METHODS: Two surgeons of different surgical specialties will jointly compare and contrast these two ends of the spectrum regarding repair of ventral hernias.

RESULTS: An algorithm for patient selection is presented.

CONCLUSIONS: No one technique is the "best" procedure for all patients. Knowledge of the wide variety of surgical options will be of benefit to all patients with incisional hernias.