A scarless technique of umbilical hernia repair in the adult population

Abstract

Background: Umbilical hernias are common in adults during their 30s-60s. Most umbilical hernias result in increased intraabdominal pressure and prompt repair is advised. The technique described here involves dissection of the hernia sac from the subcutaneous tissue with a horizontal fascial closure in a tension-free procedure.

Methods: Records of 57 patients treated for umbilical hernia in a 7-year period were reviewed retrospectively. Data were collected regarding sex, age, follow up, and complications.

Results: All patients were treated successfully. Postoperatively, eight complications were noted (one wound infection, three seromas, and four cases of cellulitis). Follow up ranged from 1 week to 3 months.

Conclusions: The technique described here is based on one used in the pediatric population. Our repair is applied to adults with hernias of less than 2 cm in diameter. At the final follow up no scar can be seen as it has been buried within the umbilicus.