Autogenous skin graft in the treatment of large incisional lumbar hernias and bulges

Objective: Repair of large incisional lumbar hernias or muscular bulges is a challenge to the surgeon as reflected by the high recurrence rate. We evaluated a surgical procedure using a running strip of autogenous skin graft as a retention suture. Methods: Eight patients with large incisional lumbar hernias (greater than or equal to 20 cm, n = 6) or muscular bulges (n = 2) underwent a parietal reconstruction with this procedure. Two patients had previously been treated with synthetic meshes without success, and one had a colocutaneous fistula. Results: No recurrence was observed in 6 patients (75 %) with a mean follow-up of 14 months. After significant weight gain, 2 repairs failed at 6 months and 1 year (partially in 1 case). No recurrence was noted for muscular bulges. Conclusion: The use of a running strip of autogenous skin graft is a simple and reliable procedure for the repair of large lumbar hernias or muscular bulges for patients with stable weight conditions.