Laparoscopic repair of ventral hernia in a laparoscopic experienced surgical center: Low recurrence rate, morbidity, and chronic pain are achievable

PURPOSE: Recurrence rate and the perioperative outcome evaluation through laparoscopic approach for ventral (primary and incisional) hernia repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective evaluation of a series of patients treated through a minimally invasive approach for ventral hernia was performed. A standardized surgical technique was adopted. All the patients were evaluated through a clinical follow-up. RESULTS: From July 2004 to June 2011, 150 videolaparoscopic ventral hernia repairs were performed. The median follow-up was 40 months. One hernia recurrence (0.7%) was detected after 55 months. The intraoperative and postoperative complication rate was 2.6% (1 conversion to open surgery) and 5.3%, respectively. Chronic pain nonresponsive to drug was registered in 2 patients (1.3%). CONCLUSIONS: The videolaparoscopic approach to ventral hernia repair is a safe technique that can guarantee a low recurrence rate; moreover, if it is performed in an experienced laparoscopic surgical center, it can be a valid alternative to the traditional open approach.