Incidence of incisional hernia after major colorectal cancer surgery & analysis of associated risk factors in Asian population: Is laparoscopy any better?

Background: Incisional hernia is one of the common morbidities after major colorectal cancer surgery. We aim to compare the incidence of incisional hernias between laparoscopic and open surgery. We also aim to identify associated risk factors of incisional hernia among Asian population who has undergone major resection for colorectal cancer.

Methods: Data of patients who had undergone major colorectal cancer surgery in year 2015 from a single institution was collected. Data were extracted from electronic clinical records from our institution's database. Incisional hernias were identified by clinical examination and computed tomography (CT) scan performed during post-operative follow up as part of colorectal cancer surveillance. Follow up data of up to 3 years were extracted. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed to identify associated risk factors for development of incisional hernia. Propensity score matching analysis was performed for laparoscopic and open resection.

Results: 502 patients were included in the study. With a minimum follow up of 3 years, overall incisional hernia incidence rate of 13% was identified. Incisional hernias after laparoscopic and open surgery were 12.3% and 13.8% (p = 0.688) respectively. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index (BMI) of >23kg/m2, ASA of III/IV and post-operative anastomotic leak were associated with development of incisional hernias. On multivariable analysis, female gender (OR 2.102, 95%CI: 1.155, 3.826), BMI of ≥23 kg/m2 (OR 2.862 95%CI: 1.582, 5.181), ASA III/IV (OR 2.052, 95%CI: 1.169, 3.602), were significantly associated with development of incisional hernia. Propensity scores matched analysis showed laparoscopic surgery did not significantly reduce the incidence of incisional hernia.

Conclusion: The overall incidence of incisional hernia seems lower in Asian population. Our study demonstrated no significant difference in incisional hernia rates between patients undergoing laparoscopic versus open colorectal cancer surgery. Female gender, higher BMI, and higher ASA are associated with increased risk of developing incisional hernia after major colorectal cancer resection.