Learning curve for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair

Purpose: To test if there was any difference in the indications and early outcomes of laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) during a 36-month period at a single institution. Methods: From August 1999 to August 2002, 64 consecutive, unselected patients underwent attempted LVHR. The patients were retrospectively divided into two groups: group I included the first 32 patients, and group 2 included the second 32 patients. Data regarding patient demographics, results, and postoperative follow-up were compared between the groups. Results: Demographic characteristics, types of hernia, preoperative records, and hernia defects were well matched between the groups. Four patients in group I required conversion to laparotomy for bowel injuries, whereas no conversion was required in group 2 (12% vs 0%, P = 0.11 [NS]). The operative times and complication rates were similar, but bowel injuries were significantly more common in group 1 (19% vs 0%, P = 0.02), including the patients who were converted. The analgesic requirement was small and the hospital stay short in both groups; the differences were not significant. Three recurrences were noted in group I and none were noted in group 2, although follow-up was not comparable in the second group. Conclusions: A learning curve is needed to decrease conversions and bowel injuries during LVHR. The improved experience could permit the treatment of larger defects laparoscopically. (C) 2004 Excerpta Medica, Inc. All rights reserved.