Clinical Profile and Surgical Outcomes of Incisional Hernia: A Prospective Observational Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Nepal

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Incisional hernia is a recurrent complication following abdominal surgery and remains a significant surgical problem despite advances in techniques, contributing to increased morbidity, healthcare costs, and reduced quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile, risk factors, surgical management, and postoperative outcomes of patients with incisional hernia at a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, National Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Nepal, from December 2025 to May 2026 involving 32 adult patients with clinically and ultrasonographically confirmed incisional hernia. Data on demographics, clinical features, risk factors, prior surgeries, operative techniques, and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed using SPSS.

Results: Of the 32 patients, 68.8% were older than 40 years and 65.6% were female. Swelling was present in all cases, while 43.8% had pain. Most hernias were reducible (84.4%), and 90.6% had defect size >3 cm. Surgical site infection (34.4%) was most common risk factor, followed by wound dehiscence (15.6%). Hysterectomy (37.5%) and exploratory laparotomy (25%) were common prior surgeries. Lower midline incision (31.2%) predominated. Sublay mesh repair was used in 78.1%. Complications were low: seroma 6.2%, infection 3.1%. The observed mean hospital stay was 3.66 days (±0.57) for primary repair and 8.14 days (±1.66) for mesh repair; no statistical test was applied given the descriptive nature of the study.

Conclusion: Incisional hernia was more common in females and patients over 40 years. Surgical site infection and wound dehiscence were major risk factors. Sublay mesh repair showed favourable outcomes with low complications and remains an effective treatment modality.