An incisional hernia is a hernia that protrudes through an old surgical incision (hernia on a scar). According to some studies, they occur in 3% to 20% of people who have had abdominal surgery.
The risk factors are ageing, obesity, smoking, malnutrition and/or problems with tissue strength.
The diagnosis is most often based on physical examination, but sometimes an ultrasound or an abdominal CT scan become necessary to clearly define the hernia and its size
Surgical treatment of symptomatic incisional hernias
Incisional hernias that are asymptomatic can simply be followed-up. In contrast, symptomatic incisional hernias should be surgically managed.
Repair of incisional hernia is most often performed under anesthesia with hospitalization. It can be performed by laparotomy or by laparoscopy with or without robotic assistance. With rare exceptions, a mesh is put in place to prevent any recurrence.