Comparative Study Matching Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) and Sublay Mesh to Treat Umbilical Hernia

Prospective Randomized Multicenter Trial Comparing Laparoscopic (IPOM) vs. Sublay Mesh Plasty for Umbilical Hernia in Adults

This study is designed to compare two techniques for operative care of umbilical hernia in adults regarding wound complications, wound side fluid collections, recurrence rate, postoperative pain, duration of hospitalization and quality of life. The IPOM technique provides mesh positioning directly into the abdominal cavity onto the defect under laparoscopic control while in sublay position the mesh is placed directly behind the rectus muscle after small incision close to the belly button.

Inclusion Criteria:

• informed consent
• patient age: ≥ 18 years
• elective surgery for umbilical hernia
• hernia diameter ≥ 1cm

Exclusion Criteria:

• previous history of median laparotomy
• navel site infection
• contraindication for general anaesthesia
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score >IV
• pregnancy
• cirrhosis of the liver (CHILD B and C) and/or ascites
• cytostatic therapy
• incarcerated hernia
• recurrent hernia