Risk Factors for Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair Recurrence

Introduction: Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair is widely used to manage ventral hernias, but predictors of hernia recurrence have been poorly investigated. This retrospective study investigated the influence of common risk factors on hernia recurrence. Methods: Data from 146 consecutive, unselected patients who underwent laparoscopic ventral hernia repair between 2000 and 2006 were collected. Demographic, clinical and periopeoperative parameters were analysed to identify predictable risk factors for hernia recurrence. Both univariate and multivariate Cox’s regression analysis were employed. Results: The overall recurrence rate was 8% (12 patients) after an average follow-up of 45 months. On univariate analysis, smoking (p=0.01), and previous repair (p<0.00) were significantly different in recurred patients. However, only previous repair was an independent predictor on multivariate Cox’s regression analysis (HR 0.096, 95% Cl: 0.025–0.371; p=0.01). Discussion: LVHR is a safe technique to repair ventral hernias, However, smokers with previous failed repair attempts have a higher risk of recurrence.