The endoscopic component separation technique for hernia repair results in reduced morbidity compared to the open component separation technique

Purpose The component separation technique for hernia repair results in signiWcant wound morbidity due to the need for large undermining skin Xaps. The endoscopic component separation technique allows for advancement of the abdominal wall while preserving the blood supply originating from the epigastric vessels. This study compares the outcomes following hernia repair utilizing these techniques. Methods A retrospective review of patients undergoing component separation or endoscopic component separation hernia repair from 2008 to 2010. Patients underwent open component separation or endoscopic component separation with closure of the linea alba and reinforcement with mesh. Results Thirty-Wve patients that underwent a component separation [14 open component separation (CST) and 21 that underwent endoscopic component separation (ECST)] were identiWed. There was no diVerence in hospital length of stay (CST 5.0 × 3.0 days vs ECST 6.3 × 3.6 days, P = 0.28) or operating room times (CST; 268 × 62 min vs ECST; 229 × 57 min, P = 0.07). Wound complications occurred in 57% of CST and 19% of ECST, P = 0.03. One recurrent hernia was identiWed in the ECST group with a mean follow up of 8 months (range 1-21 months). No recurrences were seen in the CST group. Conclusions ECST is associated with comparable hospital length of stay and operative times and reduced wound complications compared to CST.