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        <title>Journal of Abdominal Wall Surgery | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/journals/journal-of-abdominal-wall-surgery</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Journal of Abdominal Wall Surgery | New and Recent Articles</description>
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        <pubDate>2026-04-16T23:44:37.319+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16654</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16654</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Why Are We Still Implanting Permanent Synthetic Mesh for Hernia Repair Into Young Patients?]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Opinion</category>
        <author>Samuel G. Parker</author><author>Steve Halligan</author><author>Alastair C. J. Windsor</author><author>Sarah Zhao</author><author>Lawrence Nip</author><author>Marja A. Boermeester</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15830</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15830</link>
        <title><![CDATA[InguinoScrotal Hernias: Comparison of Minimally Invasive Approaches and Open Surgical Repair (The SCAR Study)]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Protocol</category>
        <author>Riccardo Caruso</author><author>Emilio Vicente</author><author>Yolanda Quijano</author><author>Jorge Zarate Gomez</author><author>Belen Porrero Guerrero</author><author>Álvaro Valdés de Anca</author><author>Maria Teresa Alonso Garcia</author><author>Álvaro Morales Taboada</author><author>Pablo Pastor Riquelme</author><author>Sergio Salido Fernandez</author><author>Javier Serrano Gonzalez</author><author>Ana Pilar Morante Perea</author><author>Valentina Ferri</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionInguinal hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures performed worldwide. Minimally invasive approaches (laparoscopic and robotic) are increasingly recommended owing to their favorable postoperative outcomes. However, their use in inguinoscrotal hernias remains limited. This study aims to evaluate and compare clinical outcomes of minimally invasive and open approaches in inguinoscrotal hernia repair.Methods and analysisThis national multicenter prospective observational cohort study will include patients undergoing elective or urgent repair of European Hernia Society-classified inguinoscrotal hernias (S1–S3) using open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques. Adults (>18 years) from various hospitals in Madrid will be recruited. Data on patient demographics, intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, postoperative pain (Visual Analog Scale score), quality of life, and hernia recurrence over a 2-year follow-up will be collected. A minimum of 100 patients (50 per group) is required for detecting statistically significant differences, assuming 5% loss to follow-up.Ethics and disseminationThe HM Hospitales Ethics Committee has approved the study protocol. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Results will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals and presented at national surgical conferences.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16597</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16597</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Editorial: Use of Botox in Abdominal Wall Hernia Surgery]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-09T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Special Issue Editorial</category>
        <author>Pilar Hernández Granados</author><author>Mette Willaume Christoffersen</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16371</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16371</link>
        <title><![CDATA[How Reproducible Are Abdominal Wall Surgical Techniques? A Methodological Assessment of Technical Reporting in the Contemporary Literature ]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-02T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Francesco Brucchi</author><author>Rita Stanco</author><author>Gianlorenzo Dionigi</author><author>Filip Muysoms</author>
        <description><![CDATA[PurposeTo evaluate the completeness and reproducibility of technical reporting in contemporary abdominal wall hernia literature, and to assess the risk of misinterpretation when surgical techniques are classified based solely on titles and abstracts.MethodsA descriptive methodological analysis was conducted on original studies published between 2000 and November 2025 reporting abdominal wall hernia repair techniques. The unit of analysis was the surgical technique (surgical arm). Each technique was assessed across five predefined technical domains essential for reproducibility: surgical approach, hernia type, mesh position, mesh type, and fixation method. Techniques were classified as fully reproducible only when all domains were explicitly reported. A secondary analysis evaluated immediate interpretability based on title and abstract information. Terminological variability was explored by identifying distinct acronyms used for identical technical configurations.ResultsTwo hundred articles comprising 290 surgical arms were analyzed. Surgical approach and hernia type were almost universally reported (≥99%). In contrast, mesh-related domains were inconsistently described, with mesh position and fixation reported in 81.4% and mesh type in 71.7% of arms. Overall, only 51.7% of techniques were fully reproducible based on full-text assessment. When limited to titles and abstracts, complete interpretability dropped to 3.4%, indicating a high risk of technical misclassification. Substantial terminological redundancy was observed, with up to 16 different acronyms used to describe identical technical configurations.ConclusionTechnical reporting in abdominal wall surgery is frequently incomplete, substantially limiting reproducibility, evidence synthesis, and reliable interpretation, particularly when relying on titles and abstracts. Excessive and inconsistent use of acronyms further amplifies ambiguity. The strict reliance on explicit reporting may overestimate non-reproducibility in real-world practice, and the study was not designed for exhaustive literature coverage. Adoption of structured, component-based reporting frameworks may represent a pragmatic pathway toward improving clarity, reproducibility, and methodological rigor in abdominal wall surgery.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16067</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16067</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Prevention with Sublay Mesh of Trocar Site Hernia (PRESUME): Study Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-27T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Protocol</category>
        <author>Emma Sánchez-Sáez</author><author>Enric Sebastian-Valverde</author><author>Ramon Vilallonga Puy</author><author>Ana Ciscar Bellés</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundTrocar Site Incisional Hernia (TSIH) is the most common postoperative complication after laparoscopic surgery, with incidences exceeding 30% in high-risk patients. Despite advances in minimally invasive approaches, optimal preventive strategies remain uncertain, and evidence comparing closure or reinforcement techniques is limited. Prophylactic mesh use shows benefits in open surgery, but its role in laparoscopy requires further clarification.ObjectiveThe PRESUME study evaluates whether prophylactic sublay mesh placement at the umbilical trocar site reduces TSIH incidence in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy who present at least one established risk factor. Secondary objectives include assessing mesh-related complications and short- and long-term postoperative outcomes.MethodsThis prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled trial provides Level I evidence. Eligible participants are adults scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy with diabetes mellitus, BMI ≥30 kg/m2, age ≥65 years, or requiring umbilical incision enlargement. Patients will be randomised 1:1 to standard aponeurotic closure or intraperitoneal sublay mesh reinforcement (Ventralex™ ST). Follow-up visits are scheduled at 30 days, 6 months, 1 year—with ultrasound—and 2 years. The principal investigator will remain blinded during follow-up. The primary endpoint is TSIH incidence; secondary outcomes include surgical site events, postoperative pain, readmissions, and time to return to daily activities. Based on expected TSIH reduction from 35% to 10%, 42 patients per arm are required.DiscussionTSIH remains a significant postoperative issue with limited preventive evidence in laparoscopy. By assessing the efficacy and safety of prophylactic sublay mesh reinforcement, the PRESUME trial may support future recommendations and improve outcomes in high-risk patients.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16349</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16349</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Large Language Models in Surgery: Promise, Pitfalls, and Practical Use]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-26T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Mini Review</category>
        <author>Danette T. Denham</author><author>Colin Y. Wang</author><author>Emil Maric</author><author>Lucy R. Hinton</author><author>B. Todd Heniford</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundLarge Language Models (LLMs) represent a transformative advancement in artificial intelligence (AI) with rapidly expanding applications in medicine. While AI-related medical publications increased 36-fold between 2000–2022, practical guidance for surgeons remains limited. This mini-review delineates pragmatic applications of LLMs in surgical practice while addressing key limitations, implementation considerations, and ethical considerations.MethodsWe reviewed contemporary LLM platforms and their integration into clinical workflows, patient communication, surgical research and academic writing, evaluating both benefits, constraints and risk mitigation relevant to practicing surgeons.FindingsLLMs demonstrate significant utility across multiple domains. In clinical workflows, ambient documentation and chart summarization may reduce documentation burden and support rapid synthesis of complex patient data. For patient communication, these tools can simplify complex medical information, tailor or translate patient instructions to appropriate reading levels or languages, and generate empathetic responses to patient messages with improved efficiency. In research, LLMs assist with literature summarization, study design optimization, and risk of bias assessment in RCT, allowing surgeons to focus on higher-level scientific reasoning. Despite promising applications, several constraints demand attention. Effective prompting requires specific techniques including clear clinical objectives, explicit instructions, and iterative refinement. LLM outputs require verification to prevent “hallucinations” - fabricated or inaccurate information. Protected health information (PHI) must never be entered into public LLM platforms to maintain HIPAA compliance. Liability frameworks for AI-generated errors remain ambiguous, with unclear responsibility deferred amongst providers, institutions, and developers.ConclusionLLMs offer surgeons valuable tools for enhancing workflow efficiency and patient communication when deployed with appropriate oversight. Success requires understanding prompt engineering principles, maintaining rigorous fact-checking protocols, protecting patient privacy, and recognizing that human judgment remains irreplaceable in clinical decision-making.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16437</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16437</link>
        <title><![CDATA[An Analysis of Biomechanical and Physiological Changes During Abdominal Wall Reconstruction]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-26T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>S. G. Parker</author><author>A. L. A. Bloemendaal</author><author>T. Pampiglione</author><author>S. Mallett</author><author>S. Halligan</author><author>J. McCullough</author><author>A. C. J. Windsor</author><author>A. A. O. Plumb</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionAbdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) creates biomechanical and physiological changes, impacting the respiratory system. We assessed how dynamic lung compliance (LC) changed in response to intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) and closure forces. Secondarily, we investigated if patient, radiological, or biomechanical factors were identifying predictors of physiological changes.Materials and methodsWe performed a prospective observational study in patients undergoing complex ventral hernia repair. LC was measured during 3 intra-operative stages after full muscle relaxation. Primary outcome was change in LC between completion of adhesiolysis and closure. Additionally, we measured force and distance required for midline closure.ResultsNineteen patients (median age 63) underwent AWR. Median hernia volume was 437 cm3 (IQR, 233–1,608). Mean LC change was −6.8 mL/cmH2O (±6 SD). Mean IAP increase was 3 mmHg (±1.7 SD). LC reduced and IAP increased between adhesiolysis and skin closure, significantly (P < 0.001). Increased midline closure distance was positively associated with increased closure force (P = 0.03, 0.12N, 95% CI 0.21–4.0). There was no evidence that increased closure force reduced LC or raised final IAP. Preoperative FEV1 and BMI were associated with reduced final LC (P = 0.05, 6.23L 95% CI 0.05 to 12.4; P = 0.03, −0.74 kg/m2, 95% CI −1.4 to −0.07). There was no evidence of an association between radiological measurements and change of LC or IAP.DiscussionReduced LC is positively associated with increased IAP. However, there is no evidence increased closure forces affect final LC or IAP. Pre-operative optimisation of BMI or pre-operative FEV1 may have more impact than hernia morphology on LC reduction.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16223</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16223</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Improving Intraoperative Compliance With Critical View of the Myopectineal Orifice Criteria Using the V–M Pathway During Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-25T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Kryspin Mitura</author><author>Laura Kacprzak</author><author>Marta Wojcik</author><author>Lidia Mitura</author><author>Michal Romanczuk</author><author>Bernard Mitura</author><author>Orest Lerchuk</author><author>Volodymyr Khomyak</author><author>Orest Chemerys</author><author>Piotr Niecikowski</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundThe CVMPO criteria were developed to standardize critical quality steps during laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. However, consistent intraoperative compliance remains challenging, particularly during prolonged or technically difficult procedures, or under cognitive fatigue. Checklist-based approaches may be difficult to recall and apply in real time.MethodsA prospective observational study included 211 consecutive laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs performed using a standardized technique. An original spatial cognitive framework, the V–M Pathway, mapping CVMPO criteria onto the laparoscopic view of the inguinal region, was applied as a deliberate intraoperative pause before mesh placement. Time required to verbally recall all nine CVMPO criteria was measured intraoperatively. All procedures were routinely recorded in full from the beginning to the end of the operation. Surgeon-identified corrective actions prompted by CVMPO recall were documented during the procedure. The time required to implement corrective actions was determined postoperatively based on independent review of the complete operative video recordings. All procedures underwent post hoc video verification to confirm objective adherence to the CVMPO criteria.ResultsComplete recall of all nine CVMPO criteria using the V–M Pathway was achieved in all procedures, with a median recall time of 58 s (IQR 52–64). Intraoperative recall prompted corrective actions in 20.4% of cases. Among procedures requiring corrective actions, the median time required to complete all corrections was 46 s (IQR 38–81). Independent video review confirmed complete adherence to all CVMPO criteria in 97.2% of procedures. Mesh placement was performed only after CVMPO confirmation in all cases.ConclusionThe V–M Pathway supported rapid intraoperative recall of CVMPO criteria, prompted timely corrective actions, and was associated with high video-verified adherence to predefined quality criteria. Importantly, the additional time required for recall and corrective actions represented only a small fraction of total operative time, suggesting that integration of the pathway is feasible without major workflow disruption. This simple spatial cognitive aid may support intraoperative verification of quality criteria during laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair without disrupting operative workflow.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.14775</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.14775</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Robotic and Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair in Africa: Current Adoption, Challenges, and Future Horizons]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-19T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Mini Review</category>
        <author>Adebayo Falola</author><author>Murtaja Satea</author><author>Pedro Vega Guillen</author><author>Rodolfo J. Oviedo</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures performed globally. Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair (LIHR) is recognized globally to be effective and safe, with advantages over open surgery, but its implementation across the African continent has been slow, with only 12 countries reporting implementation, and only 3.3% of inguinal hernia repairs in sub-Saharan Africa performed using laparoscopic techniques. Robotic surgery, although still emerging within the continent, with around 20 robots primarily used in urology across South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Angola, and Tunisia, no reports of robotic inguinal hernia repair currently exist. Progress, however, is being observed with the growing interest from surgical societies, private-sector robotic expansion, and humanitarian missions introducing mesh-based and limited laparoscopic procedures. Limitations include the low global utilization of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for hernia repair despite guideline recommendations. This has been attributed to training challenges, steep learning curve, and limited evidence of benefit for bilateral and recurrent hernias. African-specific challenges include costs, inadequate training opportunities, surgeon preference, ongoing debates regarding its necessity in low-resource settings, lack of institutional support, and resource prioritization for other MIS procedures such as cholecystectomy and prostatectomy. Despite ongoing challenges, investments in research, training and cost-effective equipment, increased availability of mesh, and integration of humanitarian hernia missions into national training systems, can enhance adoption and contribute to better surgical outcomes for patients. This narrative review presents the present state of robotic and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in Africa, as well as the current challenges, and recommendations to improve adoption.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15885</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15885</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Advances in Intestinal Restoration and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction in Bogotá: A Two-Stage Approach During the Same Hospitalization]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-16T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Juan Pablo Ruiz</author><author>Neil Valentín Vega</author><author>Alejandro Lora Aguirre</author><author>Arnold José Barrios</author><author>Angie Carolina Riscanevo Bobadilla</author><author>Julián Orrego</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundThe available evidence regarding the sequential performance of gastrointestinal tract restoration and abdominal wall reconstruction in two surgical stages during a single hospitalization is limited and is based primarily on case series. In this study, we present our experience with the aim of describing the outcomes obtained in the repair of complex abdominal wall defects and the restoration of intestinal continuity using a two-stage approach within the same hospital stay.MethodsCase series of patients who underwent elective surgery for gastrointestinal tract restoration, followed by abdominal wall reconstruction in a second surgical stage during the same hospitalization. Medical records of procedures performed between 2018 and 2023 were reviewed. All interventions were carried out electively by a multidisciplinary team involving the abdominal wall surgery group and colorectal surgery.ResultsA total of 30 patients were included. Both surgical procedures were completed in 73% of cases, with a mean interval of 6.3 days between the two surgeries. In 26% of patients, it was not possible to complete both procedures; the most frequent causes were anastomotic leakage and surgical site infection, each occurring in 9% of cases. The mean length of hospital stay was 14 days. The most common complications were postoperative ileus, anastomotic leakage, intestinal perforation, and deep surgical site infection.ConclusionAlthough concomitant surgery is associated with a higher risk of complications particularly in the setting of complex hernias—in appropriately selected patients, sequential procedures performed during the same hospitalization can achieve favorable outcomes, especially in stoma reversal. The implementation of prehabilitation programs and the adoption of shared decision-making models are essential to optimize outcomes and reduce associated morbidity.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16228</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16228</link>
        <title><![CDATA[EHS Guidelines on the Management of Primary Ventral and Incisional Hernias Under Emergency Conditions]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Cesare Stabilini</author><author>Alexis Theodorou</author><author>Maciej Pawlak</author><author>Stavros Antoniou</author><author>Frederik Berrevoet</author><author>Heather Bougard</author><author>Umberto Bracale</author><author>Sara Capoccia Giovannini</author><author>René Fortelny</author><author>Christine Gaarder</author><author>Miguel Angel Garcia-Urena</author><author>Katie Gilmore</author><author>Sergio Alejandro Gomez-Ochoa</author><author>Ferdinand Köckerling</author><author>Elisa Mäkäräinen</author><author>Salvador Morales-Conde</author><author>Francesca Pecchini</author><author>José Antonio Pereira Rodríguez</author><author>Andrea Carolina Quiroga-Centeno</author><author>Yohann Renard</author><author>Benoit Romain</author><author>Elena Schembari</author><author>Eva Deerenberg</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionEmergent primary ventral or incisional hernias (PVIHs) are a common cause of surgical admission, leading to significantly higher rates of morbidity and mortality compared to elective hernia repairs. Despite this, management varies widely due to a lack of evidence-based consensus. This article presents the new European Hernia Society (EHS) guidelines for the emergency treatment of adult patients with PVIH.Material and MethodsThis project was developed by the EHS Science Committee following AGREE-S, GRADE, and GIN standards. A guideline panel, composed of general and emergency surgeons along with patient partners, formulated seven key health questions addressing the surgical approach, mesh type and placement, and the management of defects of varying sizes and contamination levels to support general surgeons in their decision-making process. A systematic review was conducted, and recommendations were developed using a formal evidence-to-decision framework, ensuring consensus was reached on all recommendations.ResultsThe guidelines expert panel provides recommendations for several clinical scenarios. For defects amenable to direct closure, mesh-based repair is suggested over primary suture repair, regardless of the contamination grade. Furthermore, a laparoscopic approach with intraperitoneal mesh, an open approach with onlay mesh placement, and the use of large-pore synthetic meshes are recommended. For large defects, not amenable to closure, a staged approach that avoids immediate mesh-based repair is suggested.ConclusionAdherence to these guidelines can help standardise the management of emergent PVIHs, potentially improving patient outcomes. The recommendations advocate for a “damage control” mindset, prioritising physiological stability over immediate definitive reconstruction. Further research is needed to address gaps in the current literature, particularly with regard to long-term recurrence rates and the specific protocols for managing these complex cases.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15439</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15439</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated With the Occurrence of Incisional Hernia in Patients Undergoing Midline Laparotomy]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-06T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Edgard Efren Lozada Hernandez</author><author>Luis Alberto Fernandez Vázquez-Mellado</author><author>Luis A. Martin-del-Campo</author><author>Héctor Ali Valenzuela Alpuche</author><author>Enrique Ricardo Jean Silver</author><author>H. Alejandro Rodríguez</author><author>Ricardo Reynoso González</author><author>Tatiana Andrea Prado Salcedo</author><author>Monserrat Martinez-Zamorano</author><author>Cesar Felipe Pleoneda Valencia</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionIncisional hernia (IH) is the main long-term complication after midline laparotomy and has significant clinical and economic effects. Although multiple risk factors for IH formation have been proposed, their ranking and clinical relevance have not been clearly established. This meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of IH and rank the associated risk factors, considering both their statistical significance and their clinical impact.MethodsThis meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251107739). Observational (cohort and cross-sectional) studies evaluating patients undergoing midline laparotomy with follow-up for IH were included. Clinical trials and studies involving a laparoscopic approach were excluded. The global prevalence of IH was calculated, and random effects models were used to identify risk factors associated with the occurrence of IH, whose associations are reported as hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals.ResultsTwenty studies (n = 790,800 patients) were included, among whom the overall prevalence of IH was 10.1% (95% CI: 7%–15%). Only 10 studies analyzed relevant risk factors. The factors with the greatest clinical impact were reoperation during hospitalization (HR = 4.09) and surgical site infection (HR = 2.96). Other significant factors included emergency surgery, colon surgery, stoma creation, diabetes, and liver disease. Factors such as sex, obesity, or hypertension were not significantly associated with IH formation.ConclusionsPerioperative factors are key determinants of the occurrence of IH. The identification of such factors would allow prioritization of preventive interventions, such as the application of prophylactic meshes, especially in high-risk patients. Standardized prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15631</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15631</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Efficacy and Safety of Prophylactic Mesh Reinforcement for the Prevention of Incisional Hernia: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-23T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Edgard Efren Lozada Hernandez</author><author>Luis Alberto Fernández-Vázquez-Mellado</author><author>Ricardo Reynoso Gonzalez</author><author>Luis A. Martin-del-Campo</author><author>Hector Ali Valenzuela Alpuche</author><author>H. Alejandro Rodríguez</author><author>Enrique Ricardo Jean Silver</author><author>Cesar Felipe Ploneda Valencia</author><author>Marian Serna Murga</author><author>Gloria Valeria Martinez Gonzalez</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionIncisional hernia (IH) is a frequent and expensive complication of laparotomy, occurring in up to 50% of high-risk patients. Although prophylactic mesh placement has been proposed as an effective preventive strategy of IH, its adoption remains limited due to concerns about mesh-related complications and the heterogeneity and variable quality of the available evidence. This umbrella meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the existing evidence to evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic mesh reinforcement for IH prevention.MethodsA systematic search of multiple databases was performed until June 2025 to identify meta-analyses comparing the use of prophylactic meshes versus primary closure in adults undergoing laparotomy. Methodological quality was assessed with the AMSTAR-2, and the data were reanalyzed with random or fixed effects models. Heterogeneity (I2), study overlap (CCA), publication bias, and robustness of the results were evaluated.ResultsTwenty-one meta-analyses were included. Prophylactic mesh reinforcement was associated with a significant reduction in the odds of incisional hernia (OR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.22–0.38); this effect was consistent across different surgical settings. Mesh use was also associated with an increased risk of surgical site infection (OR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.04–1.30) and seroma formation (OR = 2.31; 95% CI: 1.99–2.67). No significant differences were observed in abdominal wound dehiscence or hematoma. Overall, the evidence demonstrated a large and consistent effect, although substantial heterogeneity and signs of publication bias were present.ConclusionProphylactic mesh reinforcement is associated with a reduced likelihood of incisional hernia but an increased risk of seroma and surgical site infection. Its use should be considered selectively in high-risk patients, balancing potential benefits against known complications. Further studies are needed to optimize patient selection and evaluate strategies to reduce mesh-related adverse outcomes, as well as to assess cost-effectiveness and quality-of-life outcomes.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15899</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15899</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Patient Experience and Surgical Outcomes of Botulinum Toxin A Treatment in Complex Abdominal Wall Hernias: A Retrospective Analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Angelina Klein</author><author>Aliona Wöhler</author><author>Robert Schwab</author><author>Christoph Güsgen</author><author>Arnulf Willms</author><author>Sebastian Schaaf</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundBotulinum toxin A (BTA) is increasingly used for preoperative conditioning in patients with large or complex abdominal wall hernias. Injection into the lateral abdominal muscles 4–6 weeks before surgery induces temporary muscular relaxation and facilitates primary fascial closure, even in extensive defects (EHS W3), potentially reducing the need for component separation. While surgical outcomes are well documented, data on patient-reported experiences during the preoperative period remain limited. This retrospective study evaluated patient-reported symptoms between BTA injection and surgery and analyzed surgical results in this cohort.MethodsBetween 2018 and 2024, 50 patients with complex abdominal wall hernias received preoperative BTA treatment followed by surgical repair. Demographic and surgical data, as well as BTA-related complications, were analyzed descriptively. A retrospective questionnaire assessed subjective experiences from injection to surgery, focusing on pain, physical changes (e.g., abdominal contour, trunk stability), and functional impairments (e.g., breathing, urination, defecation).ResultsThe study included 31 men and 19 women (mean age 63.5 years, BMI 28 kg/m2). The mean transverse defect width was 12.06 cm, with an average area of 170.24 cm2. Thirty eight patients had W3 hernias according to EHS (≥10 cm), while BTA was also used in selected cases with smaller defects with complicating factors. No major BTA-related complications occurred; minor hematomas were observed. The mean interval between injection and surgery was 39 days. Primary fascial closure was achieved in all patients. Mesh reinforcement was used in all cases, most commonly in sublay position (n = 47). A transversus abdominis release was performed in 28 cases (52%), and anterior component separation in five. Twenty-two patients (44%) completed the questionnaire. Injection pain ranged from NRS 1–8, typically resolving within 1–3 days; three patients reported no pain. Eight noticed abdominal contour changes, and two reported altered trunk function. One patient experienced mild shortness of breath and another constipation; no urinary issues occurred.ConclusionPreoperative BTA conditioning is a safe and effective adjunct for abdominal wall reconstruction in complex hernias. The treatment facilitates fascial closure, avoids major complications, and causes only minor, short-lived discomfort or functional limitations, maintaining overall quality of life in the preoperative phase.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16018</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16018</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Intraoperative Fascial Traction - From Concept to Comprehensive Application]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-02-06T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>H. Niebuhr</author><author>G. Woeste</author><author>C. Winkler</author><author>S. Behle</author><author>W. Reinpold</author><author>H. Dag</author><author>F. Köckerling</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Intraoperative Fascial Traction (IFT) represents a promising alternative technique for complex abdominal wall reconstruction in large ventral hernias, particularly those exceeding 10 cm in width. Developed by Swiss and German surgeons and introduced clinically in 2021, IFT achieves fascial closure without extensive muscle component separation. Multiple studies demonstrate closure rates of 79%–96% for defects below 19 cm, though rates decline significantly for larger defects. Preoperative botulinum toxin A (BTA) administration and transversus abdominis muscle release (TAR) are often combined with IFT. The paper discusses the Hamburg algorithm 2.0 as it provides a structured treatment approach based on defect width, recommending IFT as a first-line intervention for defects up to 15 cm and incorporating additional component separation for larger hernias. Controlled fascial traction allows standardised treatment and can lead to higher fascial closure and lower recurrence rates.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16216</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.16216</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Corrigendum: Robotic Surgical Procedures for Ventral Hernia Repair]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-01-29T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Correction</category>
        <author>M. W. Christoffersen</author><author>K. Andresen</author><author>Helene Perregaard</author><author>N. A. Henriksen</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15685</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2026.15685</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Trends and Prevalence of Surgical Methods in Umbilical Hernia Repairs in Sweden: A Nationwide Population-Based Registry Cohort Study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-01-26T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Mathias Bergström</author><author>Björn Widhe</author><author>Sven Bringman</author><author>Maria Melkemichel</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundUmbilical hernia repairs (UHRs) are commonly performed worldwide, yet knowledge regarding methods of repair remains limited. This study aimed to assess the trends and prevalence of suture versus mesh repairs for UHRs in Sweden over time.MethodsThis observational population-based registry study utilised prospectively collected data from the nationwide Swedish Perioperative Registry. Patients aged ≥18 who received a UHR between the years 2017–2022 were eligible. Surgical units were categorised into six healthcare regions. The primary outcome was to observe the trend in repair methods (suture vs. mesh) over time. The secondary outcome included descriptive patient- and hernia characteristics of the UHRs, along with regional variations.ResultsOut of 10,374 primary elective UHRs, mesh was used in 47.9% of cases, with 14.2% performed laparoscopically. Mesh repairs were less common in women (38.7%) compared to men (52.1%) (p < 0.001). Suture repair patients had a lower median age (49 years) and BMI (27.2 kg/m2) compared to those with mesh repairs (55 years, BMI 29.7 kg/m2) (p < 0.001). A higher ASA class (3–4) was more common for mesh repair recipients (17.1%) compared to suture repair recipients (10.9%). The use of mesh repairs increased from 46.2% to 49.4% over the study period (p = 0.063), with only the Southern healthcare region showing a significant rise from 25.0% to 56.1% (p < 0.001).ConclusionThe use of mesh repairs has not yet significantly influenced UHR practices in Sweden. Mesh was used more frequently among men, obese patients, older individuals, and those with greater co-morbidities.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2025.15658</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2025.15658</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Axon Loss and Collagen Deposition Confirms Compression Neuropathy in the Ilioinguinal Nerve Resected From Primary Inguinal Herniorrhaphy Patients]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-01-15T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Robert Wright</author><author>Kiyrie Simons</author><author>Troy Sanders</author><author>Julia Wright</author><author>Troy Salisbury</author><author>Kseniya Shin</author><author>Donald Born</author><author>Anjali S. Kumar</author><author>Makena Horne</author><author>Rachel Daniel</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionPrior studies show pre-operative pain in primary inguinal hernia patients is associated with visible enlargement of the ilioinguinal nerve at the external ring. However, the ilioinguinal nerve has not been previously examined for evidence of axon loss in conjunction with inguinal hernia. This study investigates axon loss and collagen deposition in the ilioinguinal nerve as evidence of compression neuropathy associated with primary inguinal hernias.MethodsTen male patients with visible ilioinguinal nerve enlargement during primary inguinal herniorrhaphies were enrolled in this prospective study. Resected nerve samples included the proximal (control), canal, and distal segments relative to the external ring. Epoxy resin sections were stained with toluidine blue to assess axon loss, and paraffin sections were stained with trichrome stains to evaluate collagen content.ResultsModerate to severe axon loss was observed in the canal and distal segments in 70% and 80% of patients, respectively. The canal segment demonstrated a significant increase in collagen content when compared to the proximal control (p < 0.02). Fascicular cross-sectional area increased significantly in canal and distal segments compared to control (p < 0.0058, p < 0.0098). The total nerve area of the canal segment was significantly smaller compared to the proximal control and distal segment (p < 0.006, p < 0.04).DiscussionIn patients with primary inguinal hernias, the exposure of the ilioinguinal nerve within the canal segment can be associated with moderate to severe axon loss and increased fascicular areas due to collagen fibrosis, consistent with compression neuropathy.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2025.15878</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2025.15878</link>
        <title><![CDATA[The Local Parastomal Hernia (LoPa) Repair: A Novel Approach to Parastomal Hernia Repair]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-01-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Ali Al Mukhtar</author><author>Agneta Montgomery</author><author>Kristin Johnson</author><author>Peder Rogmark</author><author>Stefan Öberg</author><author>Tomas Vedin</author><author>Ulf Petersson</author><author>Marie-Louise Lydrup</author>
        <description><![CDATA[PurposeSurgical repair of parastomal hernias (PH) is challenging, mainly due to high recurrence rates. The Local Parastomal repair (LoPa) is a novel technique utilizing a retromuscular synthetic mesh with an outward-facing collar. This study describes the LoPa technique and evaluates its outcomes.MethodsThis single-centre study retrospectively reviewed 39 consecutive patients who underwent LoPa repair for a PH between 2017 and 2021. Long-term follow-up, including physical examination and quality of life assessment, was conducted. The primary outcome was PH recurrence diagnosed clinically or by CT scan.ResultsFor the 39 patients included, the mean age and BMI were 71 years and 27 kg/m2, respectively. The most common ASA score was III (48.7%). The median length of stay was 3 days with no Clavien-Dindo ≥4 complications observed. At a median follow-up of 47 months, the overall recurrence rate was 33.3% (12/36 patients). Postoperative general health status was comparable to the Swedish general population, though recurrence was associated with more pain and anxiety.ConclusionThe LoPa technique is a safe and feasible PH repair, offering low short-term morbidity and a short length of stay. It is an option for repairing isolated PH, especially in patients with comorbidities. While the 33.3% recurrence rate is a concern, it is comparable to other techniques with similar follow-up. These preliminary findings warrant validation in larger prospective trials.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2025.15811</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontierspartnerships.org/articles/10.3389/jaws.2025.15811</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Response to Commentary: Autoimmune/Autoinflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA Syndrome) After Polypropylene Mesh Implantation - Protocol of a Pilot Study for Diagnostics and Treatment]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-01-12T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Commentary</category>
        <author>W. A. R. Zwaans</author><author>M. J. C. A. M. Gielen</author><author>N. D. Bouvy</author><author>C. R. Kowalik</author><author>R. M. H. Roumen</author><author>M. C. Slot</author><author>J. P. W. R. Roovers</author>
        <description></description>
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