MANAGEMENT OF GIANT VENTRAL HERNIA BY POLYPROPYLENE MESH AND HOST TISSUE BARRIER

Aim: Surgical management of giant ventral hernias is a surgical challenge due to limited abdominal cavity. This study evaluates our experience in the management of massive ventral hernias using polypropylene mesh. Methods: From January 2005 and September 2006, we operated on 30 patients with giant ventral hernias by using polypropylene mesh. The mesh was separated from the viscera by a small part of the hernial sac and the greater omentum. Results: The age ranged from 39 and 64 years. Seventeen had post-operative incisional and 13 had para-umbilical hernias. The vertical and horizontal diameters of defects ranged from 10-to 22 cm. Mean body mass index was 33. Follow up ranged from 6-18 months. No patient required ventilation after operation. Recurrent seroma, which responded to repeated aspiration, was experienced in 3 patients. Minor wound infection was observed in 4 patients. Small hernia recurrence occurred in one patient. Conclusion: The use of polypropylene and host tissue barrier is relatively simple, safe, and reliable surgical solution to the problem of giant ventral hernia.