[Remodeling of muscular layer of abdominal wall in patients with postoperative ventral hernia].

Abstract

Objective: To compare the musculature of anterior abdominal wall in healthy people and patients with large or gigantic ventral hernia.

Material and methods: A retrospective study included 200 patients between January 2020 and September 2024. Two groups were formed for subsequent analysis. The first group consisted of 100 participants without postoperative ventral hernia who underwent examination and treatment. The second group consisted of 100 patients diagnosed with large or giant ventral hernias. All participants underwent computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen, retroperitoneal space and pelvic region. Analysis of anterior abdominal wall muscles was based on CT findings. Thickness, length, area, density, symmetry, structural integrity, volume and circumference were measured.

Results: There were significant differences in muscle length along the inner and outer contours on the right side and area of anterior abdominal wall muscles on both sides. These findings suggest potential changes of these parameters in the 2^nd group. Thickness of anterior abdominal muscles differed significantly (p-value ~0.017).

Conclusion: There are significant structural differences in anterior abdominal wall musculature between healthy individuals and people with large and giant ventral hernias. This information can improve preoperative management and surgical techniques aimed at restoring the integrity and function of abdominal wall.