Current Surgical Strategies and Risk-Based Classification in Ventral Hernia Repair

The rapid evolution of ventral hernia repair techniques has highlighted the need for standardized terminology, particularly regarding mesh placement planes. Terms such as sublay and underlay have historically been used inconsistently, referring to various anatomical positions. In 2020, an international panel of 20 experts conducted a Delphi consensus to propose standardized nomenclature for mesh positioning within the anterior abdominal wall [28].

The proposed anatomical planes include:

• Onlay – placed on top of the anterior fascia;
• Anterectus – between the anterior rectus sheath and the rectus muscle;
• Inlay – sutured to the edges of the defect without overlap;
• Interoblique – between the external and internal oblique muscles;
• Retro-oblique – below the internal oblique and above the transversus abdominis;
• Retrorectus – between the rectus muscle and its posterior sheath;
• Retromuscular (post-TAR) – retrorectus medially, between the transversus abdominis and its fascia laterally;
• Transversalis fascial – between the posterior sheath and transversus abdominis;
• Preperitoneal – between the transversalis fascia and peritoneum;
• Intraperitoneal – beneath the peritoneum and in contact with abdominal organs.

Among these, onlay, retrorectus, retromuscular, preperitoneal, and intraperitoneal placements are the most commonly used in clinical practice. A wide variety of mesh implants is available for hernia repair. A useful classification system groups them by material composition. In 2018, a standardized mesh labeling system was proposed that distinguishes between: permanent synthetic, biologic, bioabsorbable (synthetic absorbable), and hybrid meshes [29]. Meshes are also categorized by pore size (microporous <100 μm, small 101–600 μm, medium 601–1000 μm, large 1001–2000 μm, extra-large >2000 μm), weight (ultralight <35 g/m², light 35–50 g/m², medium 51–90 g/m², heavyweight >90 g/m²), and material type. Although no definitive correlation has been established between these properties and outcomes, current evidence suggests that lightweight, medium-porosity meshes provide better integration and reduced foreign body sensation [30,31].

In clean, non-contaminated cases, permanent synthetic meshes are preferred. In contaminated fields, the choice remains controversial. Some data support the use of synthetic mesh even in contaminated environments, although long-term outcomes remain uncertain [32,33]. Common synthetic materials include polypropylene, polyester, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Among these, polypropylene meshes remain the most widely studied and utilized [34]. Biologic meshes, derived from human or animal tissue, are used primarily in infected or high-risk wounds. However, randomized trials have not demonstrated clear superiority over synthetic options in complex scenarios [35]. Bioabsorbable meshes, composed of fully or partially degradable polymers, provide a more affordable alternative to biologics. Their degradation time ranges from a few months to 1–1.5 years [36]. Hybrid meshes, which combine properties of synthetic and biologic materials, represent the most recent innovation, though clinical data remain limited [37,38].

Preoperative Optimization and Risk Modification

For patients undergoing elective ventral hernia repair, preoperative optimization of both hernia- and patient-related modifiable risk factors is essential to improve surgical outcomes without causing undue delays in treatment [39]. As outlined in risk classification systems, certain specific factors significantly influence the likelihood of complications. Smoking cessation is strongly recommended at least four weeks prior to surgery, irrespective of hernia type. This intervention significantly reduces the risk of wound and pulmonary complications [40,41]. Obesity is one of the most impactful risk factors for both postoperative complications and recurrence. Patients with a body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m² are at particularly high risk [7]. For those with BMI >35 kg/m², elective surgery should be approached cautiously, and preoperative weight reduction is encouraged [42]. Recent advances in minimally invasive techniques, however, have been associated with a decline in complication rates among obese patients [34,43]. In patients who are unresponsive to diet and physical activity alone, pharmacological options such as GLP-1 receptor agonists may promote significant weight loss within 3–6 months preoperatively. Bariatric surgery can also be considered either as a preparatory step or combined with hernia repair in patients with morbid obesity [44].

Diabetic patients with poor glycemic control are at increased risk for postoperative infectious complications and recurrence [40,45]. Although some studies show no clear association between HbA1c levels and adverse outcomes [46], most experts recommend maintaining HbA1c below 8% and ensuring tight perioperative glucose control. Ventral hernia patients often report reduced physical activity due to fear of worsening the hernia. However, prehabilitation-even in the form of light individualized exercise-has been shown to improve postoperative outcomes [47–50]. In patients with large hernias and loss of domain, botulinum toxin type A (BTA) injections into the lateral abdominal wall muscles promote muscle relaxation and elongation, facilitating fascial closure. Typically, Botox® is administered in a dose of 100–300 IU across three sites on each side, four weeks prior to surgery, under ultrasound guidance. Adverse effects are rare and usually limited to transient pain or hematomas at injection sites [51]. Nevertheless, the technique still requires further standardization [52,53]. Progressive preoperative pneumoperitoneum (PPP) may be used as an adjunct or alternative to BTA in cases of severe loss of domain. In this technique, 800–1000 mL of gas is insufflated daily via an intra-abdominal catheter to gradually stretch the abdominal wall. While PPP can facilitate hernia content reduction, complications such as pulmonary dysfunction, thromboembolism, bowel injury, and even rare fatal outcomes have been reported [54–56].

Surgical Management of Primary Midline and Incisional Hernias

Umbilical and epigastric hernias represent some of the most frequently encountered types of ventral hernias. Although their true prevalence is unknown, surgical repair is commonly performed [57]. Patients may remain asymptomatic or report bulging, intermittent pain, or discomfort. In asymptomatic cases, a watchful waiting strategy may be appropriate, but approximately 20% of such patients eventually require operative intervention [58]. In most cases of primary midline hernias, imaging studies are not necessary. However, for large hernias, potential loss of domain, obesity, rectus diastasis, uncertain defect size, or suspicion of multiple defects, ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) is recommended for optimal surgical planning [14]. Surgical repair may be performed using open or minimally invasive approaches. The choice depends on patient characteristics, defect size and location, institutional resources, and surgeon experience [59].

• For small defects (<1 cm), open repair is typically preferred. The decision between suture repair and mesh placement should be made on an individual basis. Mesh use has been shown to reduce recurrence even in small hernias, although it may slightly increase the risk of wound-related complications [60–62]. When mesh is used, a flat preperitoneal polypropylene implant with at least 2 cm overlap is recommended [14,63,64].
• For medium defects (1–4 cm), mesh reinforcement is strongly recommended. Open mesh repairs should provide a 3 cm overlap to minimize recurrence without significantly affecting wound complications or postoperative discomfort [14]. The decision between open and minimally invasive techniques should be individualized. Minimally invasive approaches are preferred in patients at high risk of wound complications or with multiple defects [14,59,65,66]. An additional benefit of laparoscopy is the ability to identify occult hernias and place a large mesh for linea alba weakness or diastasis recti [67].
• Defects >4 cm are less commonly encountered in primary cases and are generally managed under the framework for incisional hernias [14].

Among all ventral hernias, incisional hernias represent the most heterogeneous category in terms of size, location, and associated anatomical challenges. Their development is influenced by numerous factors, including patient-specific characteristics, initial disease pathology, incision type, and closure technique [68]. CT imaging is frequently employed in the preoperative evaluation of incisional hernias to assess anatomy, defect size and location, presence of mesh, and to identify ongoing risk factors such as occult pathology or infection [40]. When the defect width exceeds 8 cm or loss of domain is present, component separation techniques may be necessary to facilitate fascial closure [40]. Proximity to bony structures can complicate mesh fixation and may require the use of bone anchors-titanium or polymeric devices drilled or driven into bone to securely affix the mesh. This method is particularly useful in large incisional hernias involving the pubis, costal margins, or iliac crests [69]. In patients with reducible, asymptomatic incisional hernias, the risk of emergent repair is low, and observation may be appropriate [70]. However, such hernias typically enlarge over time, leading to increased technical difficulty and poorer outcomes [71]. Patients with symptomatic hernias that impair quality of life should be offered surgery if medically fit [40]. Where benefit is uncertain, discussions regarding potential risks and preoperative risk factor optimization are essential.

Trends in Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Repair

Advancements in the anatomical understanding of the anterior abdominal wall have significantly modified traditional open reconstruction techniques. Among these, retromuscular (retrorectus) mesh placement remains the most durable open repair technique and is widely considered the standard for midline hernia reconstruction [40]. However, open repairs are associated with a higher risk of postoperative wound complications and prolonged hospital stay [72]. Minimally invasive hernia repair techniques, both laparoscopic and robotic, are increasingly being adopted for both midline and lateral incisional hernias. Over the past two decades, intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) repair with defect closure and mesh fixation has gained widespread use [73–75]. Nonetheless, concerns about adhesions and chronic pain from mesh fixation have prompted the development of newer techniques that place mesh in preperitoneal or retromuscular planes [76–79]. These advanced anatomical planes can be accessed via traditional laparoscopy or robotic platforms. Although these techniques are more technically demanding and time-consuming, they offer advantages such as reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospitalization, and lower infection risk, making them an attractive option for surgeons with expertise in minimally invasive techniques [80].