Mesh Repair Versus Mayo Repair for Paraumbilical Hernia <3cm Defect Size: A Comparative Study

Introduction: Paraumbilical hernia is a common anterior abdominal wall defect, usually occurring along the linea alba. Several techniques have been described for its repair, with recurrence being a major concern. This study was conducted to compare mesh repair with Mayo's repair in terms of efficacy, postoperative morbidity, and recurrence. Methods: A prospective comparative study was carried out at LN MEDICALCOLLEGE & JK HOSPITAL Bhopal between March 2024 and July 2025. Fifty adult patients with clinically diagnosed paraumbilical hernia <3cm defect size were enrolled. Pediatric cases and patients requiring emergency surgery were excluded. Twenty five patients underwent Mayo's repair, while Twenty five underwent mesh repair. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 15 months. Results: Most patients presented between the fourth and sixth decades of life, with a female predominance (female-to-male ratio 3:1). The most frequent presentation was a reducible swelling with cough impulse (36%). Obesity and multiparity were the leading predisposing factors. Early postoperative complications occurred in 15% of the Mayo's group and 8% of the mesh group, without statistically significant difference. Recurrence was observed in 6% of Mayo's repairs, while no recurrence was noted in the mesh group. Postoperative complications such as seroma and wound infection were similar in both techniques. Discussion/Conclusion: Mesh repair offers superior long-term results compared with Mayo's technique, particularly in preventing recurrence, while maintaining comparable complication rates. Given its effectiveness and patient satisfaction, mesh repair may be regarded as the preferred method and could potentially serve as the standard approach for adult paraumbilical hernia repair.