Traumatic Abdominal Wall Hernia: Management Using a Standardized Approach

Abstract

Traumatic abdominal wall hernias are a rare complication of high energy blunt trauma. There exist several studies evaluating and outlining potential management options but still no generalized consensus on management. This series was meant to evaluate the diagnosis and management of traumatic abdominal wall hernias. A prospectively maintained database was used to identify patients with TAWH from 2021 to 2022. The primary outcome was operative management. Secondary outcomes included: time to diagnosis and post-operative outcomes. Of the 19 patients in this case series, 100% (n = 19/19) were secondary to blunt trauma with a mean ISS of 21. Exploratory laparotomy was performed in 17 cases. 14 cases had concomitant traumatic injuries to visceral structures. Complications were found in nearly half of the patients with 3 experiencing wound dehiscence. Future studies should be aimed at standardizing management approach taking into account nature of the mechanism and concomitant injuries.