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Component separation hernia repair not associated with increased VTE rates

Component separation hernia repair is associated with higher incidence of wound complication, morbidity, and mortality but does not seem to be associated with increased venous thromboembolism rates, according to new research from PRS Global Open.

Researchers used the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Program databases to identify and retrospectively analyze 34,541 patients who underwent incisional/ventral hernia repair between 2005 and 2011.

A total of 501 patients underwent component separation as part of this repair and 34,040 patients did not.

More males underwent component separation than non-component separation: 46.39% vs. 41.7%.

There was no statistically significant difference in race between the two groups.

Mesh implantation and panniculectomy were performed more often in the component separation group.

Researchers found no statistical difference in deep venous thrombosis/ thrombophlebitis and pulmonary embolism rate between the groups.

As far as individual wound complications, superficial surgical site infection (SSI), deep incisional SSI, organ/space SSI, and wound disruption were significantly higher in the component separation group.

The minor/major morbidity, mortality and return to operating room rates were also significantly greater in the component separation group compared with the non-reconstruction group.

The researchers suggest there is no difference in vascular adverse events regardless of type of repair.

They also emphasize control and management of preoperative risk before suggesting surgical intervention. – by Abigail Sutton

Disclosure: The researchers reported no relevant financial disclosures.