Recurrent Hernia

A hernia can return even after repair with mesh, although much less commonly than a repair without mesh. 

Recurrences happen for various reasons, including mesh migration or shrinkage, especially if the originally placed mesh was not large enough.  Mesh needs to be correctly placed with sufficient overlap of the hernia defect.  

Wound infection and poor healing are predictors of a recurrent hernia. Obesity, diabetes and smoking are patient related factors that significantly increase the risk of hernia recurrence.

Treatment involves addressing the underlying factors that contribute to hernia recurrence, to reduce the risk of a future recurrence.  Redo surgery is usually recommended after patient optimisation, and is much more challenging due to scarring and altered anatomy from the previous surgery.  It often requires removal of the old mesh and placement of a new one and should be performed by an experienced hernia surgeon.