The Low Transverse Abdominal Pfannenstiel Incision and the Prevalence of Incisional Hernia

Abstract

Background: Pfannenstiel incision is the commonest type of incision performed in the gynecological operations, although post operative incisional hernia is low, but should not be underestimated.Objective: To determine the prevalence of incisional hernia in patients with a low transverse Pfannenstiel incision.Design: Prospective study on patients from January 2007-to December 20008.Setting: Elwiyah Maternity Teaching Hospital.Patients & Methods: All adult women, operated on, between January 2007 to December 2008 using a Pfannenstiel incision by many gynecologist and obstetricians, were studied for general and local risk factors of incisional hernia development and were followed for two years at the out patients department or private clinic, all patients were subjected to physical examination focusing on the presence of incisional hernia. Results: (1.76%) of the patients developed incisional hernia in a period of 6-24 months.Conclusion: Incisional hernia is a rare complication of Pfannenstiel incision, besides it's cosmetically more acceptable than the lower midline incision.Key wards: Incisional hernia, prevalence in a low transverse abdominal Pfannenstiel incision