Natural course of incisional hernia and indications for repair

Background: Incisional hernias and incisional hernia repair can be a significant challenge for both surgeon and patient. Despite the growing amount of literature describing various methods of surgical techniques, little has been published the natural course of an incisional hernia and regarding indications for incisional hernia repair. Methods: An internet database search was performed to identify articles describing symptoms presented by patients and indications for incisional hernia repair. Results: Various symptoms and indications regarding incisional hernia repair and the natural course of an incisional hernia are mentioned in the literature. Nevertheless, published data accurately describing these symptoms and indications are rare. Conclusion: A prospective trial monitoring incisional hernias as well as comparing conservative treatment with repair should be performed.