The Use of Pneumoperitoneum in the Repair of Giant Hernias

Preoperative pneumoperitoneum is used to re-establish the right of domain for abdominal viscera before repair of otherwise inoperable giant abdominal hernias. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use and safety of preoperative pneumoperitoneum in the repair of giant hernias in relation to surgical treatment of obesity. The medical records of patients who underwent preoperative pneumoperitoneum in the treatment of giant hernias between 1953-1993 were reviewed. There were 27 patients (11 males, 16 females; mean age: 56 years) whose mean preoperative weight was 99 kg (range: 69-183). Hernias were predominantly in the midline (17). Other locations were right lower quadrant (5), right upper quadrant (3) and groin (2). The mean duration of preoperative pneumoperitoneum was 28 days (3-100). Subcutaneous emphysema developed in three patients with no sequelae. Primary repair of the giant hernia without Marlex mesh was possible in 19 patients (70%). Marlex mesh was used in seven (26%). One patient had a fascia lata graft. Operative complications were one pulmonary embolus and one hematoma. There were no deaths. We conclude that preoperative pneumoperitoneum is a useful adjunct to giant hernia repair. Severe obesity should be corrected before preoperative pneumoperitoneum and hernia repair. Some patients may need mesh to replace insufficient abdominal wall or to reinforce repair.