Lateral laparoscopic port sites should all be closed: the incisional "spigelian" hernia

Abstract

Incisional hernias are a recognized complication of all abdominal surgery, including laparoscopic surgery. Although most cases of laparoscopic port incisional hernias are seen in the midline, particularly around the umbilicus, there are several reports of herniation at laterally placed ports. Accepted surgical practice is to close the deep fascial layers at midline laparoscopic ports. However, the deep layers at the lateral ports are not usually closed. Two near-identical cases are reported in which incisional hernias have developed at the site where laterally placed 10-mm ports have pierced the spigelian fascia. Hernia development at an iatrogenic defect in an area that is already potentially weak, and therefore prone to herniation, has implications for lateral 10-mm port site closure. The closure of the deep layers of all lateral laparoscopic ports is advocated, especially if the spigelian fascia is pierced.