Assessing the Role of Prophylactic Mesh Placement to Prevent Incisional Hernias After Laparotomy

Background: To evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic mesh placement in reducing the incidence of incisional hernia following laparotomy. Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted from January 2023 to January 2024, including 67 patients undergoing laparotomy. Participants were allocated into two groups: those receiving prophylactic mesh reinforcement (n = 34) and those with conventional suture closure (n = 33). Demographic, clinical, surgical, and postoperative variables were recorded. Patients were followed for one year to monitor wound complications and development of incisional hernia. Results: The incidence of incisional hernia was significantly lower in the mesh group (5.9%) compared to the non-mesh group (27.3%, p = 0.02). Postoperative complications such as surgical site infection, seroma, and wound dehiscence were slightly higher in the non-mesh group, though differences were not statistically significant. Hospital stay was comparable between groups. Conclusion: Prophylactic mesh placement is a safe and effective strategy to prevent incisional hernia after laparotomy. Its use should be considered in patients with identifiable risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and emergency surgery.