Laparoscopic Approach To Treat a Hydrocele of the Canal of Nuck: A Case Report.

The hydrocele of the canal of Nuck is a rare medical condition that usually affects females during childhood and early adulthood. It is considered the female homolog to the testicular hydrocele in males, as they share similar pathophysiology. The condition is often underreported and considered an incidental finding. On many occasions, it is mistakenly diagnosed and even managed as an inguinal hernia. The hydrocele of the canal of Nuck is usually managed surgically, either by open surgery or laparoscopy. In this case report, we will discuss the hydrocele of the canal of Nuck diagnosed in a young adult female and provide a background, case presentation, and thorough discussion.

A Case of Amyand's Hernia With Abscess Managed by Two-Stage Surgery: Elective Hernia Mesh Repair Following Emergency Laparoscopic Appendectomy.

An 82-year-old man presented to our emergency department with a bulge in the right groin and worsening pain that had been present for one week. An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed fluid collection within a right inguinal hernia and a thickened appendix within the hernia sac. The patient underwent an emergency laparoscopic appendectomy under a diagnosis of Amyand's hernia with peri-appendicular abscess. During surgery, the incarcerated appendix was pulled back into the abdominal cavity from the hernia sac, and the perforated appendix was resected. For drainage of the abscess, a drain tube was laparoscopically placed into the hernia sac through the internal inguinal ring. Considering the risk of mesh infection and wound infection, the patient underwent appendectomy alone but not hernia repair at this time. Two months later, Lichtenstein repair using mesh was performed as a second-stage procedure. For Amyand's hernia with abscess, this type of two-stage strategy may avoid the surgical site infection, and the use of mesh in a second procedure would minimize the possibility of hernia recurrence, unlike previously reported cases treated by concomitant appendectomy and hernia repair.

Imaging Diagnosis of a Lumbar Hernia: A Rare and Challenging Presentation.

Lumbar hernias, a rare form of abdominal wall hernia, typically present with subtle, gradually enlarging masses in the lumbar region, often overlooked due to their rarity. This case report details a 38-year-old male farmer who experienced a 10-month history of a slowly enlarging, non-tender swelling in the left loin area, which became more prominent during the Valsalva maneuver. Despite having no significant medical history or prior trauma, a CT scan revealed a 2 cm defect in the superior lumbar triangle, with herniation of perinephric fat, confirming the diagnosis of a superior lumbar hernia. Surgical intervention was undertaken, where a 3 × 3 cm defect was identified intraoperatively, matching the preoperative imaging findings. The hernia was repaired using a Prolene mesh, which was securely anchored to the surrounding posterior abdominal wall tissues to prevent recurrence. The patient's postoperative recovery was smooth and without complications. This case underscores the necessity of including lumbar hernias in the differential diagnosis of lumbar masses, particularly in patients lacking common risk factors, and highlights the critical role of CT imaging in accurate diagnosis and surgical planning. Given the risks of incarceration or strangulation, early surgical repair with mesh reinforcement is essential for ensuring a successful outcome.

Predictor of Surgical Failure Following Transvaginal Mesh Repair Using Minimally Invasive Prolapse System Device (MIPS).

Background: The Minimally Invasive Prolapse System (MIPS) device, a novel single-incision transvaginal mesh, represents recent advancements in mesh technology, providing lightweight, biocompatible support for pelvic organ prolapse while reducing erosion, allowing for customization and improving surgical outcomes. This study aimed to identify factors associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) recurrence after transvaginal mesh (TVM) repair using the Minimally Invasive Prolapse System device. Methods: Two hundred and eighteen women with symptomatic stage II to IV POP underwent TVM. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included urinalyses and pelvic examinations using the POP quantification (POP-Q) staging system. Results: During a follow-up period of 12-46 months, 7 of 218 (3.2%) women experienced POP recurrence. Univariate analysis was conducted to identify predictors of surgical failure, revealing no significant differences in body mass index, POP stage, or preoperative urinary symptoms between the recurrence and success groups (p > 0.05). However, functional urethral length <20 mm based on urodynamics (p = 0.011), ICI-Q scores ≥7 (p = 0.012), and the first 60 surgical cases (p = 0.018) were significant predictors of surgical failure. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed these findings. Conclusions: Functional urethral length <20 mm, ICI-Q scores ≥7, and limited surgical experience were significant predictors of TVM failure using the Minimally Invasive Prolapse System kit. POP recurrence after mesh repair is less likely beyond the learning curve.

Assessment of Clinical Outcomes of Sutured Versus Sutureless Self-Gripping Polyester Mesh in Patients With Uncomplicated Indirect Inguinal Hernia in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Background Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure addressing the protrusion of abdominal viscera through the inguinal canal. Despite advancements, complications such as chronic postoperative pain, infections, and hernia recurrence persist. Traditional sutured polypropylene mesh can cause nerve irritation and inflammation, leading to chronic pain and other issues. Innovations in hernia repair, like the self-gripping, low-density, macroporous polyester mesh, aim to mitigate these problems. This mesh adheres to tissues without sutures, potentially reducing operative time, postoperative pain, and related complications. The study compares the clinical outcomes of sutureless self-gripping polyester mesh versus sutured polypropylene mesh in inguinal hernia repair, focusing on operative time, postoperative pain, hospital stay length, seroma formation, and hernia recurrence to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the self-gripping mesh. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted over one year at our hospital. Sixty patients with uncomplicated primary inguinal hernias were enrolled and divided into two groups: group A (self-gripping polyester mesh) and group B (sutured polypropylene mesh). The primary outcomes measured included operative time, postoperative pain (visual analog scale), hospital stay length, seroma formation, and hernia recurrence. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with descriptive and inferential statistics applied to compare the outcomes between the groups. Results The study found no significant differences in demographic variables between the two groups. The self-gripping polyester mesh (SF) group had significantly shorter operative times (67.2 minutes vs. 88.1 minutes, p < 0.001), lower postoperative pain scores (3.30 vs. 4.60, p < 0.001), and shorter hospital stays (3.2 days vs. 5.2 days, p = 0.000) compared to the sutured polypropylene mesh (SM) group. Rates of seroma formation and hernia recurrence were not significantly different between the groups. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that the type of mesh was a significant predictor of postoperative pain scores, with self-gripping mesh associated with lower pain. Conclusions Self-gripping polyester mesh offers significant advantages over traditional sutured polypropylene mesh in inguinal hernia repair, including reduced operative time, postoperative pain, and hospital stay without increasing the risk of seroma formation or hernia recurrence. These findings suggest that self-gripping mesh may be a superior option for inguinal hernia repair, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Further multicenter studies with longer follow-up periods are recommended to confirm these benefits.

From Meshes to Minimally Invasive Techniques: A Comprehensive Review of Modern Hernia Repair Approaches.

Hernias are a common medical condition characterized by the protrusion of organs or tissues through weakened muscle walls, affecting millions worldwide annually. Historically, from being treated with open surgeries using tension-free mesh repairs, the landscape of hernia repair has evolved significantly. This evolution has been marked by the advent and refinement of minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted approaches, which offer reduced postoperative pain, shorter recovery times, and improved patient outcomes compared to traditional methods. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the evolution of hernia repair techniques, emphasizing the transition from conventional mesh repairs to advanced minimally invasive methodologies. By examining the historical progression and current state of hernia surgery, this review thoroughly analyzes the advancements in surgical techniques, materials, and technologies. Furthermore, it explores emerging trends such as biological meshes, ultrasound-guided procedures, and 3D printing applications in hernia repair. The clinical significance of these advancements lies in their potential to enhance the patient's quality of life, minimize complications, and optimize healthcare resource utilization. Insights gained from this review will inform clinicians and researchers about the efficacy, safety, and comparative effectiveness of various hernia repair approaches, guiding future directions in hernia management and fostering innovation in surgical practice.

Short-Term Outcomes of Transabdominal Preperitoneal Ventral Hernia Repair With Rectus Aponeuroplasty (TAPPRA) for the Management of Incisional Hernias.

Introduction: Options for minimally invasive ventral hernia repair continue to evolve as a function of our understanding of the abdominal wall and the development of new techniques. We describe a robotic transabdominal pre-peritoneal repair with concurrent rectus aponeuroplasty (TAPPRA) for incisional and recurrent ventral hernias. Methods: All patients in this retrospective cohort study underwent TAPPRA repair between October 2023 and March 2024. This study aimed to determine intraoperative feasibility of the technique and to assess immediate postoperative outcomes. Results: Twelve patients underwent TAPPRA repair for incisional and/or recurrent ventral hernias at an academic hernia center. The median case duration was 135 min with no significant intraoperative complications noted. Average defect size for the hernias measures 6.5 × 8.5 cm. Polypropylene mesh was used to reinforce all defects, with the average dimensions being 19.7 × 21.5 cm. 83% of patients were discharged within 24 h of their procedure. No significant postoperative complications were noted. Conclusion: We describe the first use of a novel ventral hernia repair technique, TAPPRA, and demonstrate that it is safe, feasible, and associated with appropriate short-term outcomes for repair of moderate sized incisional hernias.

A single-centre, retrospective study of incisional hernia repair outcomes post kidney transplantation.

PURPOSE: Incisional hernias (IH) after kidney transplantation (KTx) can cause significant morbidity in kidney transplant recipients (KTR). We aimed to report the outcomes of surgical repair of IH in KTR from our centre. METHODS: We retrospectively analysed all the IH repairs in KTR from May 2018 to May 2023. We documented pre-transplant baseline characteristics, peri- and post-KTx events and outcomes and post-IH repair complications. We also documented length of stay, survival, and hernia recurrence post-IH repair. RESULTS: We performed 35 incisional hernia repairs in 34 KTR from May 2018 to May 2023 with an overall incidence of 1.63% symptomatic IH. Mean patient age was 56.7 ± 10.1 years and mean body mass index (BMI) 29.7 ± 6.49 kg/m2. A history of previous hernia operation and open abdominal operations was present in 11.4% and 22.9% of the population, respectively. The types of repairs performed were primary (5.7%), onlay (62.9%), inlay (2.9%) and retromuscular sublay (28.6%). Mean hernia neck size was 8.9 ± 5.6 cm. After IH repair, there was no perioperative mortality with an average 5.5 ± 3.9 days of length of stay. There were seven episodes (20%) of IH recurrence. There was a 6% of superficial wound dehiscence rate and a 3% of surgical site infection. Pearson's correlation test revealed that post-operative hernia recurrence was not related with neck size, post-transplant complications or pre- and post-transplant characteristics, as well as post-transplant outcome. CONCLUSIONS: The recurrence rate in our cohort was 20%. Known risk factors for IH in KTR as well as post-KTx events were not correlated with hernia recurrence or other post-hernia repair complications.

The outcomes of component separation technique versus no component separation technique in the repair of large ventral hernias and impact on quality of life: a multicenter retrospective cohort study.

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the results of patients who underwent anterior component separation techniques (ACST) and those who did not undergo component separation techniques (non-CST) in complicated ventral hernia repairs (VHRs) and to investigate the effect of these techniques on quality of life (QoL). Methods: A total of 105 patients who were operated for large ventral hernias were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the ACST group (n = 48) and the non-CST group (n = 57). Demographic, intraoperative, and postoperative data were recorded. Postoperative follow-up was conducted at 2 and 4 weeks, and 6, 12, and 24 months. The primary and secondary outcomes and QoL were measured. Results: The female ratio was higher in both groups (P = 0.512). There was no significant difference between age and body mass index between the groups (P = 0.705 and P = 0.803). The mean defect size and mesh size were similar between the groups (P = 0.775 and P = 0.245). The mean operation duration and amount of blood loss were similar between the groups (P = 0.801 and P = 0.142). There was no statistically significant difference in the median visual analog scale scores between the groups (P = 0.551). During follow-up, only 3 patients (6.3%) in the ACST group and 4 patients (7.0%) in the non-CST group had recurrence. There was no significant difference in the short- and long-term QoL between the groups. Conclusion: The ACST is a feasible surgical option for patients with complicated VHRs. In addition, by improving QoL, the recurrence rate is similar to patients undergoing standard VHR.

Management of a Large Abdominal Desmoid Tumor Complicated by Lymphedema of the Lower Limb: A Case Report.

Desmoid tumors, while generally benign histologically, can exhibit locally aggressive behavior, especially when located in the anterior abdominal wall. This case report explores the management of a rare giant desmoid tumor complicated by concurrent lymphedema, emphasizing the nuances of diagnosis, treatment decisions, and their impact on the patient's quality of life. The patient, a 55-year-old obese individual with a BMI of 47, presented with a 25 cm mass in the right paraumbilical region, alongside significant lymphedema in the right lower limb and associated inguinal lymphadenopathy. Abdominal CT revealed a well-defined soft tissue mass in the right paramedian hypogastric region, suggestive of a desmoid tumor. Surgical intervention involved a monobloc resection of the mass with a 5 cm lateral margin, including the right rectus abdominis muscle and associated aponeuroses, and subsequent reconstruction using a biface intraperitoneal synthetic mesh. Postoperative recovery was marked by the resolution of lymphedema and a return to full function of the affected limb. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a desmoid tumor. This case underscores the importance of radical surgical resection with adequate margins and appropriate reconstruction to achieve favorable long-term outcomes. The report provides insights for future research and therapeutic advancements in the management of desmoid tumors.

Pure laparoscopic bilateral arcuate line hernia repair (with video).

An arcuate line hernia is a generally asymptomatic, ascending protrusion of intraperitoneal structures over the linea arcuata. Arcuate line herniae are scarcely reported in the literature. Only a few publications were found. No clear descriptions of the techniques for repair have been published either. We aim to provide diagnostic images and illustrate our method to repair this hernia.

Open suture repair versus PermacolTM mesh repair of small ventral hernias in patients with end-stage kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Ventral hernia is a common surgical problem among patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), while the optimal repair technique for small ventral hernias is controversial. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of open suture repair versus biological mesh repair of small ventral hernias with defect size ≤2 cm in ESKD patients. METHOD: Data from consecutive ESKD patients who underwent elective ventral hernia repair with defect size ≤2 cm at a single institution from January 2012 to January 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes of open suture repair were compared to PermacolTM mesh repair. The primary outcome was recurrence rate. Secondary outcomes included post-operative complications, peri-operative and post-operative dialysis regimen. RESULTS: Forty-seven ventral hernia repairs were included, with 20 being suture repairs and 27 being PermacolTM mesh repairs. Median age at hernia repair was 60 (range 32-81) years old. Pre-operatively, 42 patients (89.4%) were on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Paraumbilical hernia (59.6%) was most common. Median hernia defect size was 15 mm (range 2-20 mm). Upon median follow-up of 56 (range 9-119) months, more patients in the suture repair group developed recurrence (30% vs. 0%, p = 0.004). Median time to recurrence was 10 (range 5-16) months. There was no wound or mesh infection. The majority of patients underwent intermittent PD peri-operatively and were able to resume on PD in the long run. CONCLUSION: Ventral hernia repair is indicated in ESKD patients even for small defects; repair with PermacolTM mesh was associated with a lower recurrence rate when compared to suture repair and post-operative morbidity was low.

Patients report significant improvement in quality of life following hiatal hernia repair-despite recurrence.

BACKGROUND: Hiatal hernia (HH) repairs have been associated with high recurrence rates. This study aimed to investigate if changes in patient's self-reported GERD health-related quality of life (HRQL) scores over time are associated with long-term surgical outcomes. METHODS: Retrospective chart reviews were conducted on all patients who had laparoscopic or robotic HH repairs between 2018 and 2022 at a tertiary care center. Information was collected regarding initial BMI, endoscopic HH measurement, surgery, and pre- and post-operative HRQL scores. Repeat imaging at least a year following surgical repair was then evaluated for any evidence of recurrence. Paired t tests were used to compare pre- and post-operative HRQL scores. Wilcoxon ranked-sum tests were used to compare the HRQL scores between the recurrence cohort and non-recurrence cohorts at different time points. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients underwent HH repairs and had pre- and post-operative HRQL scores. Mesh was used in 23 repairs (18.25%). 42 patients had recorded HH recurrences (33.3%), 35 had no evidence of recurrence (27.7%), and 49 patients (38.9%) had no follow-up imaging. The average pre-operative QOL score was 24.99 (SD ± 14.95) and significantly improved to 5.63 (SD ± 8.51) at 2-week post-op (p < 0.0001). That improvement was sustained at 1-year post-op (mean 7.86, SD ± 8.26, p < 0.0001). The average time between the initial operation and recurrence was 2.1 years (SD ± 1.10). Recurrence was significantly less likely with mesh repairs (p = 0.005). There was no significant difference in QOL scores at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year postoperatively between the cohorts (p = NS). CONCLUSION: Patients had significant long-term improvement in their HRQL scores after surgical HH repair despite recurrences. The need to re-intervene in patients with HH recurrence should be based on their QOL scores and not necessarily based on established recurrence.

Uncovering a Rare Case of Hepatic Round Ligament Epigastric Hernia.

Abdominal wall hernias are one of the most common surgical diseases present in both males and females nowadays. However, with only a few cases reported in the literature, hepatic round ligament hernias are a rare clinical manifestation. This case shows how a common symptom such as epigastric pain can be associated with this rare condition. In general, abdominal computed tomography (CT) images are the choice of study to evaluate complications and the involvement of different intestinal sections. Some laboratory tests can be performed to suspect intestinal ischemia secondary to strangulated hernias. Primary repair utilizing mesh is the preferred surgical treatment. This procedure can be performed through laparoscopic or open technique, depending on the surgeon's skills and patient preference.

Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM Plus) Repair Versus Extended-View Totally Extraperitoneal Rives-Stoppa (eTEP-RS) Repair in Primary Ventral Hernias: Experience With 50 Cases in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Background Primary ventral hernias are abnormal protrusions of abdominal viscera through the areas of weakness in the fascia of the abdominal wall. The aim of this study was to compare the benefits and complications, and the overall outcome in the Extended-View Totally Extraperitoneal Rives-Stoppa (eTEP-RS) repair versus Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM Plus) repair in the management of primary ventral hernias. Methods After obtaining institutional ethical committee clearance, this prospective comparative study between IPOM Plus and eTEP-RS was conducted in a tertiary care hospital from December 2020 to January 2022. A total of 50 patients presenting with primary ventral hernias were included in the study, of whom 25 underwent IPOM Plus and 25 underwent eTEP-RS repairs. Group selection was done by simple randomization using the lottery method. Patients more than 18 years of age with primary ventral hernias presenting with a hernial defect width less than 6 cm, consenting to the study, were included in the study. Patients who did not fulfill the inclusion criteria, strangulated/obstructed hernias, recurrent/incisional hernias, connective tissue disorders, skin infections, enterocutaneous fistulas, pregnancy, morbid obesity, and parastomal hernias were exclusion factors. Results The mean intraoperative duration in the eTEP-RS group (192.3 ± 16.20 min) was significantly higher than in the IPOM Plus group (102.6 ± 16.78min, p=0.001). The mean duration of hospital stay in the IPOM Plus group (5.9 ± 2.19 days) was longer than in the eTEP-RS group (4.6 ± 3.17 days, p=0.02). The mean postoperative pain scores, from the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), on days 1, 7, and 90 were 3.2 ± 1.11, 2.64 ± 1.11, and 1.68 ± 1.46 in the IPOM Plus group and 1.84 ± 0.688, 0.76 ± 0.66 and 0.08 ± 0.40 in the eTEP-RS group, respectively (p=0.001). Conclusion Despite being a technically easy procedure requiring less intraoperative time, IPOM Plus had several disadvantages, such as increased postoperative pain, longer duration of hospital stays, higher chances of wound site seromas, and higher rates of postoperative paralytic ileus. On the other hand, eTEP-RS was a more challenging procedure requiring more intraoperative time; however, it had several advantages: less postoperative pain, less duration of hospital stay, early recovery, and fewer chances of seromas and paralytic ileus. However, more robust data is required to compare and validate the differences between both procedures' short- and long-term outcomes.

Transdiaphragmatic intercostal herniation in the setting of trauma.

Transdiaphragmatic intercostal herniation is a rare injury that can be associated with blunt trauma. Since its first documentation within the literature in 1946, there have been less than 50 cases reported. We present a case involving a 56-year old female who presented to our Trauma Center with transdiaphragmatic intercostal herniation caused by blunt trauma from a high-velocity T-bone vehicular collision. Upon presentation, she exhibited bilateral breath sounds; however, with labored breathing, chest pain, and hypoxia. The initial chest radiograph interpretation indicated the presence of "left lower lobe infiltrates", and subsequent computed tomography imaging identified "a small lateral hernia along the left mid abdomen". After initial resuscitation, her condition deteriorated, exhibiting respiratory distress and becoming increasingly hypercarbic, requiring intubation. Review of the imaging showed disruption of the left hemidiaphragm with intrathoracic herniation of colon and stomach through the thoracic wall between the ninth and tenth ribs. Consequently, a thoracotomy was performed in the operating room, revealing a large defect between the two ribs with disruption of the intercostal muscles and inferior displacement of rib space. Lung and omentum had herniated through the disrupted rib space and the diaphragmatic rupture was attenuated anteriorly, measuring 11x6cm. After reduction of the herniated organs, a biologic porcine mesh was placed and an intermediate complex closure of the thoracic wall hernia was performed. The patient was later extubated, recovered from her injuries with no complications and was discharged. With the low incidence of transdiaphragmatic intercostal herniation, there is no standardized surgical management. Recent literature suggests that these injuries should be managed with mesh, rather than sutures only, due to high rates of recurrence. Furthermore, diaphragmatic injuries may suffer a delay in diagnosis. Therefore, a high index of suspicion should be maintained in patients with respiratory distress following a blunt trauma, with close review of computed tomography.

Unusual Presentation of Incarcerated True Parahiatal Hernia: Management of a Rare Clinical Entity.

True parahiatal hernia is a type of diaphragmatic hernia in which herniation occurs through a defect in the diaphragm, adjacent to the normal oesophageal hiatus. Its reported incidence is very rare, and it is commonly misdiagnosed as paraoesophageal hernia. Although the clinical distinction between paraoesophageal and parahiatal hernia is difficult, it is essential to recognise these two separate entities clinically as their management differs. Clinical presentation of parahiatal hernia includes symptoms related to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients may also present emergently with symptoms of respiratory distress and chest symptoms. With that in mind, we describe a compelling case of a young lady who initially presented with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome. However, she was found to have an incarcerated parahiatal hernia.

Giant spigelian hernia in a middle-aged female: The importance of intraoperative ultrasonography for hernia localization-Case report.

Spigelian hernia is a rare type of abdominal wall hernia that accounts for only 0.12% of all abdominal hernias. A Spigelian hernia, also known as a spontaneous lateral ventral hernia or a hernia of the semilunar line, occurs when a part of the abdominal contents protrudes through the Spigelian fascia. Due to its anatomical location, Spigelian hernia can be difficult to diagnose through physical examination alone. Here we report a case of a 40-year-old female who experienced right abdominal pain and swelling, where ultrasonography imaging was crucial in the intraoperative diagnosis of Spigelian hernia. The patient underwent laparotomy mesh repair to address the condition. The lack of consistent physical findings and the rarity of the disease require a high level of clinical suspicion in the diagnosis of a Spigelian hernia. Its associated abdominal complaints are often vague and nonspecific, making it even more challenging. This case emphasizes the importance of utilizing imaging techniques to aid in the diagnosis of a Spigelian hernia and prompt surgical intervention to prevent complications associated with the hernia.

Hernia de la línea arcuata, una patología poco difundida

La hernia de la línea arcuata (HLA), es una entidad claramente reconocida, sin embargo, existen escasas publicaciones al respecto. Corresponde a un defecto en la vaina posterior del músculo recto del abdomen, separándose la línea arcuata del musculo, formando un bolsillo, lo que corresponde a un defecto inter-parietal y no una verdadera hernia. Probablemente este subdiagnosticado y sub reportado. Su relevancia es que puede constituir una parte relevante de las consultas en servicio de urgencia por dolor abdominal sin etiología demostrada1. El diagnóstico debe sospecharse ante la presencia de dolor abdominal de tipo orgánico, sin otra etiología demostrada. Se confirma con imágenes, especialmente la tomografía computada. El tratamiento, apoyándose en lo reportado en la literatura, sugiere que la vía laparoscópica sería de elección. A continuación, analizamos la anatomía de la linea arcuata, la presentación clínica de esta afección, sus hallazgos imagenológicos, quirúrgicos, y las diferentes alternativas de tratamiento que se han propuesto en la literatura.

The arcuate line hernia is a clearly recognized entity, but of which little is mentioned. It corresponds to a defect in the posterior wall of the rectus abdominis, separating the arcuate line of the muscle, forming a pocket, which corresponds to an interparietal defect and not a true hernia. It is probably underdiagnosed and underreported. Its relevance is that it can constitute a significant part of the consultations in the emergency department for abdominal pain without proven etiology. The diagnosis should be suspected in the presence of organic abdominal pain, with no other proven etiology. It is confirmed with images, especially computed tomography. The treatment, based on what has been reported in the literature, suggests that the laparoscopic approach should be the choice. We analyze the anatomy of the arcuate line, its clinical presentation, imaging and surgical findings, and the different treatment alternatives that have been proposed in the literature.

Outcomes of elective and emergency surgical repair of incisional hernia: a comparative observational study.

PURPOSE: Incisional hernia (IH) is a common complication following abdominal surgery. Surgical repair of IH is associated with the alleviation of symptoms and improvement of quality of life. Operative intervention can pose a significant burden to the patient and healthcare facilities. This study aims to describe and compare outcomes of elective and emergency surgical repair of IH. METHODS: This study is a single-centre comparative retrospective study including patients who had repair of IH. Patients were divided into Group I (Emergency) and Group II (Elective), and a comparison was conducted between them. RESULTS: Two hundred sixty-two patients were identified with a mean age of 61.8 ± 14.2 years, of which 152 (58%) were females. The mean BMI was 31.6 ± 7.2 kg/m2. More than 58% had at least one comorbidity. 169 (64.5%) patients had an elective repair, and 93 (35.5%) had an emergency repair. Patients undergoing emergency repair were significantly older and had higher BMI, p = 0.031 and p = 0.002, respectively. The significant complication rate (Clavien-Dindo III and IV) was 9.54%. 30 and 90-day mortality rates were 2.3% (n = 6) and 2.68% (n = 7), respectively. In the emergency group, the overall complications, 30-day and 90-day mortality rates were significantly higher than in the elective group, p ≤ 0.001, 0.002 and 0.001, respectively. Overall, 42 (16.1%) developed wound complications, 25 (9.6%) experienced a recurrence, and 41 (15.71%) were readmitted within 90 days, without significant differences between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent emergency repair were significantly older and had a higher BMI than the elective cases. Emergency IH repair is associated with higher complication rates and mortality than elective repair.