BACKGROUND: The authors study progressive pneumoperitoneum as preoperative management of patients with giant incisional hernias. METHODS: Five patients suffering from giant incisional hernias treated at Plastic Surgery Service of the Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, were studied. Before the surgical repair, progressive pneumoperitoneum was performed. RESULTS: The procedure was uncomplicated, and improved surgical technique. In three cases repair was performed by simple aponeurotic plication. In one patient, the use of a prosthetic mesh was necessary to correct the abdominal defect. Another patient developed profuse sweating and faintness during the first session and refused further insufflation. The range of follow-up was 15-47 months and there was no recurrence. CONCLUSION: Progressive pneumoperitoneum was a simple and safe method to prepare patients with giant incisional hernias to surgery.
Pneumoperitoneum; Preoperative care; Hernia, ventral
