Utilizing T-Line Mesh for Periumbilical Hernia Repair: Evaluation of Short-term Outcomes.

Abstract

Background: Abdominal periumbilical hernias are prevalent within the adult population. When symptomatic, quality of life may be affected. This case series of 10 patients evaluates the short-term outcomes of using the T-Line mesh in periumbilical hernia repair.

Methods: A retrospective review of adult patients with symptomatic periumbilical abdominal hernia treated with open repair with T-Line mesh was performed at a tertiary referral center. Ten patients with an average age of 51 years were offered surgical treatment. Measures of postoperative outcomes included readmission within the 30-day postoperative period; recurrence; surgical site infection; development of seroma and hematoma; and the presence of pain, numbness, or bloating. Descriptive statistics were computed in Microsoft Excel.

Results: All 10 patients reported improvement in symptoms. All repairs were elective and classified as clean (100%). Hernias included 40% primary umbilical, 50% ventral, and 10% incisional. The average defect size was 10 cm², with a range from 1 to 25 cm². The T-Line mesh was placed in a sublay manner, with an average mesh size of 36 cm². No patients were readmitted in the 30-day postoperative period. There were no occurrences of surgical site infection or hernia recurrence. No hospital readmissions and no follow-up visits with hernia recurrence were noted at 3 months.

Conclusions: We present a case series of 10 patients presenting with symptomatic periumbilical hernias who underwent repair with the T-Line hernia mesh without short-term surgical occurrences. Long-term studies are required to accurately reflect safety and efficacy.