Mesh Strip Repair for Midline Ventral Hernias: A Case Series

Background: Polypropylene mesh strip repair is a novel method of hernia closure. Currently, there is limited representation in the literature regarding both the reproducibility of this method and its outcomes. The present study sought to analyze a second institution’s experience with fascial closure using the mesh strip technique with long-term follow-up. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction by the senior author was performed. Patients undergoing midline ventral hernia repair with mesh strip only fascial closure and greater than 1 year follow-up were including for analysis. Demographic data; operative details; and outcomes, specifically presence and timing of hernia recurrence, were recorded. Results: Eighteen patients met inclusion criteria. Average follow-up was 860 ± 307 days. Nine patients (50%) had recurrence of their hernia after repair. Average time to recurrence was 602 ± 406 days, with the earliest recurrence occurring at 126 days postoperatively. Seven patients (39%) underwent concurrent anterior component separation (four unilateral, three bilateral), of which there were three recurrences, all occurring in patients with bilateral anterior component separation. Conclusions: The mesh strip repair is a novel technique that shows uncertain reproducibility of outcomes, specifically with concurrent component separation techniques. With the recent Food and Drug Administration approval of a mesh suture, further multi-institutional analysis will allow for better characterization of the outcomes and indications for this technique.