BACKGROUND: The correction of abdominal hernias remains one of the most common surgical procedures since it occurs in about 11% of laparotomies. There are several risk factors. Arise, in general, the first five years after the operation and their management is controversial. AIM: Update the means and methods for surgical repair of giant abdominal hernias. METHOD: Literature review based on PubMed, Lilacs and Scielo with crossing the keywords "abdominal hernia, prostheses, surgical techniques and complications", and adding its own contribution based on the authors' experience in handling this condition. CONCLUSION: Even the successful correction with the use of large prostheses, may happen procedure inconvenient, because the abdominal wall does not resume its elasticity and compliance at the normal. For this reason, it is important that the patient be advised of the possibility of their expectations regarding the outcome, both aesthetic and functional, not be achieved.
Abdominal hernia; Prostheses; Surgical techniques and complications
