Umbilical hernia: Influence of adhesive strapping on outcome

Background: Adhesive strapping for umbilical hernia has been re-evaluated as a promising treatment. We evaluated the influence of adhesive strapping on the outcome of umbilical hernia.

Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients with umbilical hernia referred to the present institution from April 2011 to December 2015. Patients who were treated with adhesive strapping were compared with an observation alone group. The adhesive strapping group was also subdivided into two groups: the cure group and the treatment failure group.

Results: A total of 212 patients with umbilical hernia were referred to the present institution. Eighty-nine patients were treated with adhesive strapping, while 27 had observation only. The cure rate in the adhesive strapping group was significantly higher than that in the observation group. The duration of treatment of the adhesive strapping group was significantly shorter than that of the observation group. In the adhesive strapping group, the patients in the cure group were treated significantly earlier than those in the treatment failure group (P < 0.001). Furthermore, even in cases of umbilical hernia non-closure, surgical repair was easier after adhesive strapping.

Conclusion: Adhesive strapping represents a promising treatment for umbilical hernia. To achieve the best results, adhesive strapping should be initiated as early as possible.