Obesity as a risk factor for complications and recurrences after ventral hernia repair

Abstract

OBJECTIVES AND BACKGROUND: Ventral hernias are a frequent reason for surgical consultation, and its incidence is higher in the obese population. In this article, we analyze the relationship between obesity and abdominal wall pathology and its influence in surgical results. PROCEDURE: A literature search strategy was performed to analyze this relationship. RESULTS: Obesity is not only a risk factor for the appearance of abdominal wall hernias and incisional hernias but also for complications after ventral hernia repair. Obesity also increases the risk of incarceration and recurrence after repair. In these patients, the laparoscopic approach minimizes the risk and comorbidity generated by obesity in abdominal wall surgery obtaining better results. Joint surgery with laparoscopic bariatric surgery seems to be a feasible technique with lower recurrence rates in different studies. Despite these results, conclusive studies are still insufficient to make recommendation concerning hernia repair in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. CONCLUSIONS: There is a strong association between obesity and abdominal wall hernias, and the laparoscopic approach seems to offer better results regarding comorbidity of obesity.