A novel technique for the repair of lumbar hernias after iliac crest bone harvest

BACKGROUND: Lumbar hernia is a clinical entity that has been increasingly more common since the advent of iliac bone harvest for bone grafting procedures. These can be very technically difficult to repair and have a high recurrence rate. METHODS: Using a corkscrew anchor suture device, we have developed a novel and simple way to repair these hernias with no recurrence. Here we present our experience with the corkscrew suture anchor device. RESULTS: This technique has been performed in 2 patients at our institution, and in both cases, the hernia was successfully repaired. Our 1-year follow-up on this technique demonstrates intact repairs with no sign of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: The placement of corkscrew suture anchors along the iliac crest remnant is a simple technique requiring minimal bony exposure. The anchors facilitate the long-term fixation of mesh despite the lack of fascia in this area. We conclude that this is a simple and effective approach for repair of these challenging hernias.