Parastomal hernia repair

Objective. The aim of this study was to audit the results of parastomal hernia repair. Methods. A retrospective review was made of all patients having parastomal hernia repair at 2 teaching hospitals over a 12-year period. Results. Forty-three patients had 51 parastomal hernia repairs. Three types of hernia repair were used: 14 (28%) local suture, 19 (37%) local mesh repair and 18 (35%) stoma relocation. Three patients died and significant complications occurred in 65% of repairs. Parastomal hernia recurred in 18 (38%) of repairs. This was greatest with a sutured repair (59%) and least in patients having stoma relocation (24%). Repair with mesh was associated with a 39% recurrence rate. No significant statistical difference was found for the results of these repairs. Conclusion. Parastomal hernia repair is associated with high rates of morbidity, mortality and recurrence. Repair should not be undertaken without a good indication.