Study of Onlay versus Sublay Mesh Repair for Para-umbilical Hernia

Objectives: To compare the outcomes of Onlay versus Sublay mesh repair in para-umbilical hernia. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Pakistan Air Force Hospital Islamabad, Pakistan from Jul to Dec 2024. Methodology: A total of 214 patients with para-umbilical hernia were divided into Group-A (Onlay mesh repair) and Group-B (Sublay mesh repair) according to the medical registration numbers of the patients without randomization. Outcomes were assessed and compared between the study groups to determine better surgical option. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: A total of 214 patients were included who were divided into two groups of 107 each. Median age of patients was 37.00 (29.00 – 50.00) years. There were 39(18.22%) male and 175(81.78%) female patients. Median BMI was 34.70 (31.80 – 37.70) kg/m2. Frequency of surgical wound infection during hospital stay in Group-A was 9(8.41%) while in Group-B, it was 2(1.87%), (p=0.030). Frequency of seroma formation Group-A was 7(6.54%) while in Group-B, it was 16(14.95%), (p=0.047). Frequency of persistent pain in Group-A was 20(18.69%) while in Group-B, it was 9(8.41%), (p=0.028). Conclusion: Sublay mesh repair is a better and safer option compared to Onlay mesh repair in management of para-umbilical hernia.