Outcome of Transverse Abdominis Muscle Release Repair in Complex Ventral Hernia – A Single Institute Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Large, recurring, or complex defects are the hallmarks of Complex Ventral Hernias (CVH), which continue to be a difficult surgical problem. One advanced technique for reconstructing the abdominal wall is the Transversus Abdominis Release (TAR) method. The purpose of this study is to assess the TAR procedure's feasibility, safety, and initial outcomes in a single surgical facility.

Methods: Twenty patients who had TAR for complex incisional hernias defined as having a defect width greater than 8 cm were included in this three-year retrospective observational study that ran from March 2022 to February 2025. Analyses were conducted on Patient demographics, Hernia characteristics, surgical details, and Postoperative outcomes, including recurrence and surgical site occurrences.

Results: The cohort was 75% female and had a mean age of 50.8 ± 15.6 years. The average BMI was 23.65 ± 4.79 kg/m². The majority of hernia defects (65%) were 10–12 cm wide, and most were midline (50%) or involved multiple sites (30%). Recurrent hernias accounted for 25% of the cases. Sixty-five percent of patients recovered without any problems after surgery. Seroma (15%) and superficial surgical site infection (15%) were the most frequent complications. During the follow-up period, there were notably no instances of flap necrosis, mesh infection, or early recurrence.

Discussion: When it comes to treating complicated ventral hernias, the TAR technique is very effective and safe. Our findings, which indicate no early recurrences and a low rate of severe wound morbidity, are consistent with the increasing evidence that TAR is a better reconstructive option. It has established itself as a fundamental technique for complicated abdominal wall reconstruction, providing long-lasting repair with a favourable complication profile.