International Journal of Scientific Research in Dental and Medical Sciences

International Journal of Scientific Research in Dental and Medical Sciences

Clinical Profile and Management Outcomes of Incisional Hernia Following Obstetrics and Open Gynecologic Surgery: A Prospective Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of General Surgery, Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga, Karnataka, India
2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga, Karnataka, India
Abstract
Background and aim: Incisional hernia is a known complication following abdominal surgery, particularly following obstetric and open gynecological procedures. In settings where these procedures are prevalent, understanding risk factors and effective management strategies is crucial for improved patient care. This study aimed to provide a more precise characterization of risk factors and surgical outcomes in this population through a streamlined prospective analysis.
Material and methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary teaching hospital between January 2022 and December 2024, enrolling 61 consecutive patients presenting with incisional hernia resulting from obstetric or gynaecologic surgery. Data on demographics, index operation, hernia characteristics, operative details, and postoperative complications were collected and analyzed descriptively.
Results: The most common index procedures were emergency procedures, with cesarean section accounting for 62% and abdominal hysterectomy accounting for 19.6%. The most common risk factor was wound infection, observed in 30 patients. Hernia defects ranged from 2 cm to >4 cm, with most measuring 3–4 cm. Sublay mesh repair was the most common surgical repair, performed in 36 patients. Postoperative complications included seroma in 24 patients, wound infection in 17 patients, and chronic Pain in 12 patients. No recurrence was observed during follow-up; however, interpretation is limited by the sample size and the duration of follow-up.
Conclusions: Incisional hernia after obstetric and gynecologic procedures remains a clinical challenge. Sublay mesh repair demonstrated favorable, durable outcomes with no recurrence in this series. Preventive strategies focusing on infection control are critical for reducing the burden of this condition locally.
Keywords
Subjects

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Volume 7, Issue 4
Autumn 2025
Pages 167-172

  • Receive Date 16 August 2025
  • Revise Date 26 October 2025
  • Accept Date 18 November 2025
  • Publish Date 01 December 2025