With a hernia which has a large defect, the abdominal wall edges are widely separated. It is often difficult to bring the muscle edges together to close the hernia defect.

Even when it is possible to do so, the resultant repair will end up with a repair under high tension. This would result in a high rate of hernia recurrence.

These component separation repairs are major complicated operations. They are typically only performed by a limited number of surgeons who have had dedicated training in this. Mr Ahmad has had considerable experience in this technique, with experience gained after spending time with Professor Todd Heniford of Carolinas Medical Centre, North Carolina—one of the premier hernia surgeons in the world.

A large piece of mesh is then placed in the resultant space to cover and reinforce the hernia.

Postoperatively in the hospital there will be monitoring equipment used to monitor the patient’s progress.

• Wound infection.
• Haematoma/seroma—blood or fluid collection.
• Wound dehiscence (wound edges separating).
• Wound slow healing.
• Hernia recurrence.
• Other complications of major general surgery such as Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) and chest infection.

Complication rates can be calculated on individual patient’s basis based on the CeDAR application.

These repairs are considered major surgery and will require you to stay in hospital for several days.

Please also see: Hernia – overview