Botulinum toxin in Recurrent Postoperative Hernias

Abstract Incisional hernias constitute a complex issue in the field of general surgery. The traditional invasive techniques of the hernias repairing are partially efficient as there are many recurrences. The further operations lead to numerous problems such as contamination, morbidity and damaging the tissues. A very promising method to overcome the problems mentioned above was the introduction of the usage of Botulinum toxin A in the treatment of recurrent hernias. Aim of the present systematic review is to evaluate the possible application of the Botulinum toxin type A before surgery and the disadvantages of this method. Detailed research was conducted via the PubMed database using the keywords: “Recurrent” AND “Postoperative” AND “Hernias” AND “Botulinum toxin”. No further filters were applied. The existing experience suggests that Botulinum toxin A supports the uneventful postoperative recovery after hernia surgery offering decreased tension to suture line tension without perturbing the structure and physiology of the abdominal wall. However, it has been spontaneously associated with minor complications mainly from the respiratory system.