Incidence of early symptomatic port-site hernia: a case series from a department where laparoscopy is the preferred surgical approach.

INTRODUCTION: Potential benefits of laparoscopic surgery include decreased post-operative pain, improved cosmesis and a shorter hospital stay. However as the volume and complexity of laparoscopic procedures increase, there appears to be a simultaneous increase in complications relating to laparoscopic access. Development of a port-site hernia is one such complication. AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate our experience relating to the incidence, presentation and interventions for early, symptomatic port-site hernias following laparoscopic surgery in a unit where minimal access surgery is the preferred approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of the medical records of all patients who underwent laparoscopic procedures performed by the colorectal service over a 3-year period was conducted. Patients who developed port-site hernias were identified. Additional information on patient demographics, patient co-morbidities, the length and nature of the laparoscopic procedure, the presenting symptoms, the timing of these symptoms as well as the relative investigations and interventions were recorded. All trocars used in this series were bladed. RESULTS: A total of 647 patients underwent laparoscopic procedures over a 3-year period. Eight (1.23%) hernias were identified as occurring at the trocar entry site. All were symptomatic and all required surgical intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Development of a port-site hernia in the early post-operative period can be associated with significant morbidity. This complication should be considered in patients presenting with post-operative bowel obstruction. With meticulous closure of port sites 10 mm and bigger, the incidence of hernia may be reduced.

Excision and primary closure using the Karydakis flap for the treatment of pilonidal disease: outcomes from a single institution.

BACKGROUND: Chronic pilonidal disease is a debilitating condition that typically affects young adults. There is a wide variety of available therapeutic strategies reflecting the inconsistent outcomes attributed to the various operative approaches. The majority involve excision of the sinus tract followed by either primary closure or healing by secondary intention. A variety of closure approaches exist. There remains uncertainty as to which is more effective. The aim of the current study was to determine subjective and objective outcomes following excision and Karydakis flap closure in a unit where this technique is the standard of care in the management of chronic pilonidal disease. METHODS: This study involving consecutive patients with chronic pilonidal disease was conducted over a 4-year period. A tailored patient satisfaction questionnaire was given to each patient. Postoperative primary and secondary outcomes were evaluated. The mean follow-up time was 30 months. RESULTS: One hundred six consecutive patients (33 female, 73 male) underwent excision and primary closure using the Karydakis flap. Ninety-two completed questionnaires were returned (87% response rate). Patients consulted their general practitioner 2.8 times (mean) and 46% received empirical oral antimicrobial therapy prior to referral for a surgical opinion. The mean time lost to work/school following the Karydakis flap repair was 13 days (range 3-33). Successful treatment was achieved in 96.3% of cases and 92% of patients were satisfied with their operative result. CONCLUSION: Excision and primary closure with Karydakis flap is an effective treatment for chronic pilonidal disease. It is associated with low morbidity, early return to premorbid functioning, and a high degree of patient satisfaction (92%).