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.