Comparative Analysis of Onlay Versus Retrorectus Mesh Repair in Ventral Hernia Management

Dr. Moogi Abinash, Dr. K Suhas, Dr. K Sai Sanath

Abstract: Background: Ventral hernias, including incisional, umbilical, and epigastric hernias, often require surgical repair, with mesh reinforcement being the standard to reduce recurrence. Two common techniques include onlay and retrorectus mesh repair. This study compares these techniques focusing on operative time, complication rates, hospital stay, and recurrence. Methods: A prospective study conducted from March 2024 to February 2025 involved 50 patients diagnosed clinically and sonographically with ventral hernias. They were equally divided into two groups: onlay meshplasty and retrorectus meshplasty. Operative time, postoperative complications, hospital stay duration, and recurrence rates were analyzed statistically using the Chi-square test. Results: The retrorectus group showed a longer operative time (mean 68.6 mins) versus the onlay group (mean 42.1 mins) but had significantly fewer complications, such as seroma formation (12% vs. 32%), wound infections, and flap necrosis. Hospital stay was shorter for retrorectus repair (mean 5.9 days) compared to onlay (mean 9.3 days). Recurrence occurred only in the onlay group (4%). Conclusion: Retrorectus mesh repair offers a more favorable postoperative profile with reduced morbidity and recurrence despite longer operative time, suggesting it as a preferable technique for ventral hernia repair.

Keywords: Ventral hernia, Onlay mesh repair, Retrorectus mesh repair, Sublay, Hernia recurrence, Postoperative complications

How to Cite?: Dr. Moogi Abinash, Dr. K Suhas, Dr. K Sai Sanath, "Comparative Analysis of Onlay Versus Retrorectus Mesh Repair in Ventral Hernia Management", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1390-1391, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25825172119, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25825172119