Internal Hernia After Bariatric Surgery: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

defect) seem to play an essential role. The aim of this review is to elucidate and show evidence regarding IH and RYGB. Materials and Methods: Research was carried out in Pubmed to identify those articles and studies containing data referring to incidence, treatment, pathogenesis and prevention of internal hernia. All randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, review papers, and meta-analysis were included. Results: Out of the 44 initially found studies, 26 were finally chosen for further review, being 7 of them the only ones that met the inclusion criteria. Conclusion: The antecolic orientation of the alimentary limb and closure of mesenteric defects shows lower incidence of internal hernias, yet being the available scientific evidence not conclusive enough so as to define a single trend when performing this surgical procedure. More comparative studies are needed to define the real impact of closing mesenteric defects in the prevention of internal hernias.