Components separation: a solution to complex abdominal wall defects

Complex abdominal wall hernias can be challenging to treat. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively review the results of components separation. Seventeen patients underwent components separation between 2000 and 2007. Mean size of the hernia defect was 318 cm2. Mean number of prior abdominal operations/patient was 3.2. Nine patients (53%) had prior failed repair. At time of components separation, five patients (29%) had concurrent gastrointestinal operations and two (12%) had panniculectomy. Mean hospitalization stay was 3.8 days with a readmission rate of 41 per cent. The most common postoperative complications were wound related and occurred in 35 per cent of patients. During a mean follow-up of 21 months, only one patient had recurrent hernia (6%). Five patients (29%) required additional operations. Components separation is a viable option for patients with complex abdominal wall defects. Long-term recurrence is rare but wound related complications, operative reinterventions, and hospital readmission are common.