A modified lateral approach to parastomal hernia repair.

AIM: Parastomal hernia commonly occurs following the formation of a stoma. This is a review of parastomal hernia repair using a modified lateral approach to access the defect.

PATIENTS/

METHODS

A case series of 17 patients, with a median age of 65, who underwent parastomal hernia repair via a lateral approach over a five year period, is presented.

RESULTS

Of the 17 repairs, there were four minor complications in the form of a superficial cellulitis and conservatively managed ileus. In total there were four recurrences, though only one recurrence occurred in 11 cases after slight modification of the technique. The period of follow-up ranged from 6 to 60 months.

DISCUSSION: The lateral approach is a viable option for repair of parastomal hernia. It does not necessitate a laparotomy or relocation of the stoma.