IMMUNOLOGICAL CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH POSTOPERATIVE VENTRAL HERNIA FORMATION AND RECURRENCE

Abstract

Despite the variety of techniques for hernia repair and numerous modifications, the number of patients with postoperative ventral hernias (PVH) continues to rise. The causes of PVH formation and recurrence remain incompletely understood. Wound infection rates range from 4–15% after elective hernia repair and reach 35–40% following emergency surgery. Recent studies increasingly highlight the key role of the immune system in the development of local postoperative complications and hernia recurrence. Understanding the immunological changes associated with PVH is essential for optimizing surgical strategies, reducing postoperative complications, and improving patient outcomes.