A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF MANAGEMENT OF VENTRAL HERNIA

Background: Understanding ventral hernia repair, including anatomy, etiology and surgical techniques, is crucial for successful outcomes. Our institute prefers open, pre-peritoneal mesh repair due to cost considerations and lower complication rates. A prospective observational cohort study was conducted at GCSMCHRC, Materials & Method: Ahmedabad, from January 2023 to December 2023, with follow-up until December 2024. The study included patients who presented to GCS Hospital and diagnosed with ventral hernia, aged 18-75 years, consenting to study Result: The study involved 83 cases of ventral abdominal wall hernia, with the highest incidence in the 5th decade and a male-to-female ratio of 1:2. Common symptoms in both sexes included swelling (80%) and pain (70%). Among the patients, 18 (21.7%) had comorbid conditions: diabetes (55.5%),hypoproteinemia (22.2%), and hypertension, heart disease, or COPD (22.2%). Umbilical and incisional hernias were most prevalent, and 60% of female patients were obese (BMI > 30). Mesh repair was performed in 75 patients (90.4%), mostly using pre-peritoneal mesh. Common complications were seroma (12%) and wound infection (10%). Recurrence occurred in 2 patients (2.4%). One case (1.2%) of strangulated ventral hernia was managed by primary suture repair. Most patients were discharged within a week, with follow-up ranging from 6 months to 1 year The study highlighted the highest prevalence of ventral hernias in the 5th Conclusion: decade, with a higher incidence in females, particularly those who are obese. Mesh repair, especially pre-peritoneal mesh, was effective with low recurrence rates. Common complications included seroma and wound infection.